Liege Belgian Waffles Recipe

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

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating a light and airy texture.

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

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.

Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of flavor to the dough.

Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.

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

When incorporating the yeast mixture into the flour and sugar mixture, ensure that the milk is warm but not hot, ideally around 110°F. This temperature activates the yeast without killing it, ensuring a good rise. Additionally, when folding in the pearl sugar, be gentle to avoid deflating the dough, which helps maintain the waffles' light and airy texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may result in a denser texture.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients without needing to be activated in warm liquid first.

• warm milk - Substitute with warm almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that provides a similar texture and moisture.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but equally delightful flavor profile.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor and similar richness.

• pearl sugar - Substitute with crushed sugar cubes: Crushed sugar cubes can mimic the texture and sweetness of pearl sugar, though they may not caramelize as evenly.

• Allow the waffles to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the waffles soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the cooled waffles in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• If you plan to store the waffles for a longer period, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Place the individually wrapped waffles in a large freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness. The waffles can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy your waffles, reheat them directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the waffles on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the waffles in a toaster or toaster oven. Toast on a medium setting until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• For an extra touch of indulgence, serve the reheated waffles with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

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

• Toaster Method: If you prefer a quick and easy method, pop the waffles into a toaster. Toast them on a medium setting until they are warm and crispy. Be careful not to burn the pearl sugar as it can caramelize quickly.

• Microwave Method: Place the waffles on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for about 30-60 seconds. This method is the fastest but may not retain the crispiness as well as other methods.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet. Place the waffles in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and slightly 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 about 3-5 minutes until they are warm and crispy. This method is great for retaining the texture of the waffles.

• Steam Method: If you want to keep the waffles soft and moist, you can use a steamer. Place the waffles in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 3-5 minutes until they are heated through. This method is ideal if you prefer a softer texture.

• Small bowl: To dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit until frothy.

• Large mixing bowl: To combine the flour, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture, and to mix the dough.

• Whisk: To mix the yeast and milk together until frothy.

• Wooden spoon: To mix the ingredients in the large mixing bowl and to gradually add the melted butter.

• Clean cloth: To cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place.

• Waffle iron: To cook the dough portions until golden brown and caramelized.

• Measuring cups: To measure the flour, milk, and pearl sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the granulated sugar and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: To gently fold the pearl sugar into the dough.

• Knife: To divide the dough into portions before cooking.

• Serving plate: To serve the warm waffles once they are cooked.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This streamlines the process and ensures you have everything you need.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time and effort when mixing the dough, ensuring a smooth consistency quickly.

Preheat the waffle iron early: Turn on your waffle iron while the dough is rising. This way, it's ready to go as soon as you are.

Divide dough ahead: Portion the dough while it's rising. This makes it easier to cook each waffle quickly once the waffle iron is hot.