Imagine biting into a waffle so divine, it instantly transports you to the charming streets of Belgium, where every crispy, caramelized morsel tells a story of culinary magic. These aren't your ordinary waffles - these are Liege Waffles, a legendary Belgian treat that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of sweetness and texture that will revolutionize your breakfast game forever!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Belgian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup pearl sugar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with 1/4 cup of warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the two large eggs. Once beaten, add the melted unsalted butter and the remaining 1/4 cup of milk to the eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the flour and sugar. Then, add the activated yeast mixture. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the batter rise in a warm place for about 15 minutes. This allows the yeast to work and the batter to become fluffy.
- After the batter has risen, gently fold in the pearl sugar, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. If necessary, lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or a small amount of melted butter.
- Once the waffle iron is hot, pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the center of the waffle iron, close the lid, and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Carefully remove the waffles from the iron and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Serve the Liege waffles warm, spreading them with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate sauce for an extra touch of happiness.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your yeast activation milk is precisely between 110-115°F. Too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won't activate it.
- Pearl Sugar Magic: Authentic Liege waffles depend on pearl sugar. If unavailable, do not substitute with regular sugar - the caramelization is what makes these waffles unique.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow your batter to rise in a warm, draft-free area. This develops flavor and ensures a light, airy texture.
- Waffle Iron Prep: A well-seasoned or lightly greased waffle iron prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overmix: Gentle mixing preserves air pockets, resulting in a more tender waffle.
- Serve Immediately: These waffles are best enjoyed warm, when the pearl sugar is still slightly molten and crispy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
