Belgian Waffles Recipe (with Video)

Belgian Waffles Recipe: Who doesn’t love a perfectly golden, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside Belgian waffle? These waffles are larger and thicker than regular ones, thanks to the special waffle iron used to cook them. The deep pockets are perfect for holding toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, whipped cream, or even ice cream.

So, what makes Belgian waffles different from regular waffles? The key differences are:

• Lighter texture – Belgian waffles use a yeast-based or beaten egg white batter, making them airier.
• Larger size – They are bigger and thicker with deep pockets.
• Crispier edges – Thanks to the special waffle iron and higher sugar content.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe and make these delicious waffles from scratch!

Ingredients Needed

Before starting, gather all the necessary ingredients.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs (separated)
• 1 ¾ cups whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm, spiced flavor)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup chocolate chips or blueberries (for mix-ins)

Essential Kitchen Tools

To make perfect Belgian waffles, you’ll need the right equipment:

1. Waffle Iron – A Belgian waffle maker with deep pockets is ideal.
2. Mixing Bowls – One for dry ingredients and another for wet ingredients.
3. Whisk or Hand Mixer – For beating egg whites to create a fluffy batter.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
5. Ladle or Measuring Cup – To pour the batter evenly into the waffle iron.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter to keep it light and airy.

Step 2: Preheating the Waffle Iron

1. Plug in your waffle iron and set it to medium-high heat.
2. Lightly grease the waffle plates with cooking spray or butter.

Step 3: Cooking the Waffles

1. Pour about ½ to ¾ cup of batter into the center of the preheated waffle iron.
2. Close the lid and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Carefully remove the waffle using a spatula or tongs.

Step 4: Serving and Toppings

Serve your waffles immediately while they’re warm. Popular topping ideas include:

• Maple syrup and butter
• Fresh berries and whipped cream
• Nutella and banana slices
• Powdered sugar and chocolate drizzle

Tips for Making Perfect Belgian Waffles

• Use yeast for extra fluffiness – Let the batter rest for a few hours if using yeast.
• Don’t overmix – This keeps the batter light and prevents dense waffles.
• Crispy edges tip – Add a little extra melted butter to the batter for crispiness.

Variations of Belgian Waffles

Chocolate Belgian Waffles

• Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and ½ cup chocolate chips to the batter.

Savory Belgian Waffles

• Reduce sugar to 1 tablespoon and add shredded cheese and cooked bacon bits.

How to Store and Reheat Belgian Waffles

Storing

• Keep waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze them for up to 3 months by stacking them with parchment paper in between.

Reheating

• Toaster or Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes for crispy results.
• Microwave: Heat for 30 seconds, but it may become soft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter – Makes the waffles dense instead of fluffy.
• Not preheating the waffle iron – Leads to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the egg whites step – This reduces fluffiness.

FAQs about Belgian Waffles Recipe

What are the key ingredients in a Belgian waffles recipe?

Belgian waffles typically require flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, and butter or oil. Some variations might include vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor.

How do I make my Belgian waffles crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside?

To achieve crispy waffles with a fluffy interior, make sure your waffle iron is fully heated before pouring in the batter. Also, separating the eggs and whipping the egg whites until stiff peaks form before folding them into the batter can help create a lighter texture.

Can Belgian waffles be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Belgian waffles ahead of time. Cook them until they are slightly underdone, let them cool, and then freeze them in a single layer. When ready to serve, reheat the waffles in a toaster or oven for a fresh, crispy texture.

Are there any dairy-free alternatives for Belgian waffles?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice. You can also use melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative in place of butter.

What toppings work well with Belgian waffles?

Belgian waffles can be served with a variety of toppings such as fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate chips, or nut butters. For a savory twist, top them with fried eggs, bacon, or ham.

How long does it take to cook Belgian waffles?

The cooking time for Belgian waffles typically ranges from 4 to 6 minutes, depending on the heat of your waffle iron. Keep an eye on the waffles and check for a golden-brown crust to ensure they are done.

Can Belgian waffle batter be used for pancakes?

While you can use Belgian waffle batter to make pancakes, the texture might be different due to the batter’s thickness and content of fat. Pancakes might not be as light and fluffy as when using a pancake-specific batter.

These tips should help you perfect your Belgian waffle recipe and enjoy this delightful treat any time of the day!

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make Belgian waffles from scratch, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you enjoy them sweet or savory, these waffles are sure to be a hit. Experiment with different toppings and flavors, and enjoy a homemade waffle experience that’s far better than store-bought!