Buttery Belgian Liege Waffles

Who doesn’t love a warm, buttery Belgian Liege waffle? There’s something magical about biting into a soft, fluffy interior that melts in your mouth, complemented by little pockets of caramelized sugar. These waffles are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent dessert. Just trust me when I say you’ll find it hard to have just one.

Liege waffles originate from Belgium, specifically from the city of Liège. They’re unique because they use a special pearl sugar that caramelizes beautifully when cooked, creating that wonderful texture and flavor we all crave. Unlike traditional waffles, these little gems are dense and sweet enough to stand alone but can be enhanced with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate syrup. I first discovered this recipe while on a trip to Belgium, and ever since, it’s become a staple in my kitchen.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed (not hot)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup pearl sugar

Instructions

Step 1:

In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, which means your yeast is active.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the frothy yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 3:

Gradually add the softened butter and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This may take about 5-6 minutes. Get those hands working.

Step 4:

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5:

After the dough has risen, gently fold in the pearl sugar. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens.

Step 6:

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once hot, add a scoop of the dough (about ½ cup) to the center of the grid and close the lid. Cook until golden brown, usually about 3-5 minutes depending on your waffle iron.

Step 7:

Carefully remove the waffle and repeat with the remaining dough. Dust with powdered sugar or your favorite toppings and enjoy.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these delicious Belgian Liege waffles contains roughly 300-400 calories, depending on the toppings you choose. They are dense and rich, but hey, life is about balance, right? Pair them with some fruit to lighten things up.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this classic treat, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also use unsweetened applesauce in place of half the butter for a reduced-fat option. For gluten-free fans, a good all-purpose gluten-free flour mix works wonderfully in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These waffles shine on their own, but if you want to elevate your breakfast or brunch, consider topping them with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a decadent experience, try adding melted chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Oh, and they make a fantastic pairing with my best homemade chili for a savory-sweet fusion at brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes is not letting the dough rise adequately. Remember, patience is key. Also, don’t skip on the pearl sugar; it’s what gives Liege waffles their signature crunch and sweetness. Lastly, be cautious with your waffle iron; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

Chef’s Notes

• For an extra touch of flavor, try infusing the milk with a cinnamon stick while warming it up.
• You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge overnight, and bake fresh waffles in the morning.
• These waffles freeze exceptionally well. Just pop them in a toaster for a quick morning treat any day of the week.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use other types of sugar instead of pearl sugar?
  A1: Pearl sugar is unique and creates that awesome crunch, but if you can’t find it, you can use large granulated sugar as a last resort.
• Q2: What can I serve with Liege waffles?
  A2: The possibilities are endless. Try fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even an indulgent chocolate sauce.
• Q3: How do I store leftovers?
  A3: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to a month.

So, there you have it, my go-to buttery Belgian Liege waffle recipe. Once you make these delicious waffles at home, you’ll understand why they’re a fan favorite. Happy cooking, friends. And if you’re also in the mood for something savory, don’t forget to check out my air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders for a delightful dinner that pairs wonderfully with these waffles.

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