📝 About This Recipe
Experience the quintessential American diner luxury with these golden-brown Belgian waffles, characterized by their deep pockets and impossibly light, airy interior. While inspired by European traditions, this version is a comfort food staple, utilizing whipped egg whites to achieve a 'melt-in-your-mouth' texture that yeast-based versions often lack. Perfectly crisp on the outside and tender within, they serve as the ultimate canvas for melted butter and pure maple syrup.
🥗 Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour (sifted for extra lightness)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Baking powder (ensure it is fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 pieces Large eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 1 3/4 cups Whole milk (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (pure extract preferred)
Classic Toppings
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (softened for serving)
- 1/2 cup Maple syrup (warmed)
- 1 cup Fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Confectioners' sugar (for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your Belgian waffle iron to its medium-high setting. If your oven has a 'warm' setting (approx. 200°F/95°C), turn it on and place a wire rack over a baking sheet inside to keep finished waffles crisp.
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2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.
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3
Carefully separate your egg yolks from the whites. Place the yolks in a medium bowl and the whites in a separate, clean glass or metal bowl.
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4
To the bowl with the egg yolks, add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is uniform and pale yellow.
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5
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk and yolk mixture. Using a rubber spatula, stir gently until just combined; it is okay if a few small lumps remain. Do not overmix.
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6
Using a hand mixer or a balloon whisk, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. They should be glossy and stand upright when the whisk is lifted.
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7
Gently fold about one-third of the whipped egg whites into the batter to lighten it up. Then, fold in the remaining whites using a slow figure-eight motion until no large white streaks remain.
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8
Lightly coat the preheated waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray or a brush of melted butter.
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9
Ladle approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter (depending on your iron size) onto the center of the iron. Spread it slightly toward the edges with the back of the ladle.
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10
Close the lid and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually about 4 to 5 minutes. A great visual cue is to wait until the steam stops escaping from the sides of the iron.
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11
Carefully remove the waffle with a silicone fork or tongs. It should be deep golden brown and firm to the touch.
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12
Place the finished waffle on the wire rack in the warm oven to maintain crispness while you repeat the process with the remaining batter.
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13
Serve immediately while hot, topped with a generous pat of butter, warm maple syrup, and a dusting of confectioners' sugar.
💡 Chef's Tips
For the crispest exterior, ensure your waffle iron is fully preheated before the first drop of batter hits the plate. Never stack your waffles after cooking; the steam will make them soggy. Always use a wire rack in a warm oven. Avoid over-mixing the batter after adding the flour; over-mixing develops gluten and leads to a chewy, tough waffle instead of a light one. If you want a 'malted' diner flavor, replace 2 tablespoons of the flour with 2 tablespoons of malted milk powder. Ensure your egg whites bowl is completely grease-free, or the whites won't whip to their full volume.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of thick-cut applewood smoked bacon or savory breakfast sausage links for the perfect salty-sweet balance. Pair with a large glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a steaming mug of dark roast coffee. Top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and fresh berries for a more decadent 'brunch' feel. For a Southern twist, serve alongside crispy fried chicken tenders and a drizzle of spicy honey. Offer a side of Greek yogurt and honey for those looking for a slightly lighter accompaniment.