Liege Belgian Waffles Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, giving the waffles their light and airy texture.

Lukewarm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the dough.

Melted butter: Adds flavor and moisture, making the waffles tender.

Vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with a sweet, aromatic flavor.

Pearl sugar: Creates the signature caramelized crunch in the waffles.

When folding in the pearl sugar, be gentle to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will create those delightful pockets of caramelized sweetness in your waffles. Additionally, make sure your waffle iron is well-preheated to achieve that perfect golden brown crust.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the waffles denser.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral profile.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in liquid before adding to the dough.

• lukewarm milk - Substitute with plant-based milk: Almond milk or soy milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative but may change the texture slightly.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity and provides a subtle coconut flavor, making it a good dairy-free option.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used in the same quantity and provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.

• pearl sugar - Substitute with crushed sugar cubes: Crushed sugar cubes can mimic the texture of pearl sugar, though they may dissolve more quickly.

• Allow the waffles to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the cooled waffles in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Place the wrapped waffles in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store the waffles in the freezer for up to 3 months. This ensures they remain fresh and delicious.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen waffles on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the waffles in a toaster or toaster oven. Toast on a medium setting until they are heated through and have a nice, crisp exterior.
• For a quick option, microwave the waffles on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds, though this method may result in a softer texture.
• Serve the reheated waffles with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup, to enhance their delightful flavor.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 5-10 minutes or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Toaster Method: For a quick and easy reheat, pop the waffles into a toaster. Set the toaster to a medium setting to avoid burning. Toast for 1-2 minutes or until they are heated through and have a nice, crispy exterior.

• Microwave Method: Place the waffles on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place the waffles in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are not overcooking. This method will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the waffles in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on the grill and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method adds a slight smoky flavor to the waffles.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the flour and salt, and to mix the wet and dry ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, milk, and melted butter accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: Used to dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk and to mix the wet ingredients together.

• Spatula: Used to fold in the pearl sugar into the dough.

• Waffle iron: Used to cook the waffles until they are golden brown.

• Small bowl: Used to dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk.

• Kitchen towel: Used to cover the dough while it rests for 30 minutes.

• Measuring jug: Used to measure and pour the lukewarm milk.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the waffles after they are cooked.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to save time during the process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently combine your dough ingredients, saving you from manual mixing.

Preheat waffle iron early: Turn on your waffle iron while the dough rests to ensure it's ready to go when you are.

Batch cook waffles: Cook multiple waffles at once if your waffle iron allows, reducing overall cooking time.

Clean as you go: Cleaning up while the waffles cook will save you time at the end.