Belgian Waffles
🛠 Equipment
- Waffle iron
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Pastry brush (for greasing the waffle iron)
🛒 Ingredients
| 300 g | All-purpose flour | |
| 150 g | Melted unsalted butter | |
| 30 cl | Warm milk | |
| 3 | Eggs | |
| 80 g | Granulated sugar | |
| 100 g | Pearl sugar (or coarse brown sugar) | |
| 15 g | Fresh baker's yeast | |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla extract | |
| 1 pinch | Salt |
Preparation
Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, crumble the fresh yeast into the warm milk.
Add one teaspoon of sugar and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour.
Add the granulated sugar and the pinch of salt.
Step 3: Prepare the batter
Make a well in the center of the flour.
Crack the eggs and pour in the milk-yeast mixture.
Whisk starting from the center, gradually incorporating the flour.
Add the melted butter and vanilla extract.
Mix until you have a smooth and even batter.
Step 4: Add the pearl sugar
Fold in the pearl sugar gently with a spatula.
Do not overmix to avoid melting the sugar.
Step 5: Let the batter rest
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel.
Let it rest for 1 hour at room temperature, away from drafts.
The batter should double in volume.
Step 6: Cook the waffles
Preheat the waffle iron.
Lightly butter the plates for the first batch only.
Pour a ladleful of batter into the center of each plate (do not overfill — the batter will rise).
Close and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the waffles hot, dusted with powdered sugar, topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, or melted chocolate.
They are also delicious plain with just a little butter.
💡 Tips & variations
- Pearl sugar is the secret ingredient in Belgian waffles — it caramelizes during baking and creates delightful sugary bits.
- Let the batter rest for 1 hour at room temperature so the yeast can work and create light, airy waffles.
- Only grease the waffle iron for the first batch — the butter in the batter is enough for the rest.
- Serve waffles immediately — they are best when crispy and hot.
- For an extra indulgent version, add chocolate chips to the batter.
❓ Frequently asked questions
How long does this recipe take?
35 min + 1h resting (20 min prep).
How many servings does this make?
8 servings.
How difficult is this recipe?
easy.
How do I store this dessert?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Take it out 15 min before serving for the best texture.