Imagine biting into a waffle so decadent, so perfectly caramelized, that it transports you straight to the charming streets of Belgium. These aren't your ordinary breakfast waffles - these are Liege-style Belgian waffles, a legendary street food that will revolutionize your morning routine! With a crispy, golden exterior studded with caramelized pearl sugar and a tender, rich interior, these waffles are a game-changing recipe that will make you the breakfast hero of your household.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Belgian
Serves: 8 waffles
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pearl sugar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F) with active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt to create a dry ingredient mixture.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Whisk thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until a smooth, slightly sticky batter forms.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour. The batter should double in size and become puffy.
- Preheat your Belgian waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly grease with non-stick cooking spray.
- Gently fold the pearl sugar into the risen batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture completely.
- Scoop approximately 1/2 cup of batter into the center of the preheated waffle iron, allowing space for expansion.
- Close the waffle iron and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the waffle is golden brown and caramelized from the pearl sugar.
- Carefully remove the waffle using a fork or wooden spatula, and place on a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Repeat the process with remaining batter, ensuring the waffle iron is cleaned and regreased between each waffle.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or powdered sugar.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your milk is precisely warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Patience Matters: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. This develops complex flavors and creates that signature fluffy texture.
- Pearl Sugar Secret: Use authentic Belgian pearl sugar for true caramelization. Regular sugar won't provide the same magical crunch.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to maintain the batter's airiness.
- Waffle Iron Prep: Lightly grease between each waffle to prevent sticking and ensure perfect release.
- Serve Immediately: These waffles are best enjoyed fresh and warm, when the caramelized sugar is still crisp and glistening.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
