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.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.

Butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor and tenderizes the dough.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the dough.

Pearl sugar: Creates caramelized pockets of sweetness throughout the waffles.

When incorporating the butter into the dough, ensure it is fully softened to achieve a smooth and elastic texture. Cold or partially softened butter can result in a lumpy dough, making it difficult to knead properly. For best results, leave the butter at room temperature for at least an hour before starting the recipe.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though the texture may be slightly denser.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with 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: Suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.

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

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Offers a more complex flavor profile and contains trace minerals.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg; suitable for a vegan alternative.

• softened butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Provides a dairy-free option with a slight coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Adds a different but complementary flavor profile.

• pearl sugar - Substitute with crushed sugar cubes: Mimics the crunchy texture of pearl sugar in the waffles.

• Allow the waffles to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Once cooled, place the waffles in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap to maintain their freshness.
• For short-term storage, keep the waffles at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure they are in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• For longer storage, place the wrapped waffles in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
• Store the waffles in the freezer for up to 3 months. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles on a baking sheet and heat for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the waffles in a toaster or toaster oven. Toast on a medium setting until heated through and crispy.
• For a quick option, microwave the waffles on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as other methods.
• Enjoy your Liege Belgian waffles with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the waffles with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Toaster Method:

  1. Set your toaster to a medium setting.
  2. Place the waffles in the toaster slots.
  3. Toast for 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning. This method will give you a crispy exterior.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the waffles on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for about 30-45 seconds. Check if they are heated through; if not, continue in 15-second intervals.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the waffles in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the waffles in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are not overcooking. This method will give you a nice, crispy texture.

• Small bowl: Used to dissolve the yeast in warm milk.

• Large bowl: Used to combine flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and the yeast mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the flour, milk, and pearl sugar.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: Used to stir the yeast mixture and combine the ingredients.

• Wooden spoon: Used to mix the dough before kneading.

• Stand mixer: Optional, but can be used to knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

• Plastic wrap: Used to cover the bowl while the dough rises.

• Waffle iron: Used to cook the waffles until golden brown.

• Cooking spray: Used to lightly grease the waffle iron.

• Knife: Used to divide the dough into 8 pieces.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the waffles after cooking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: Knead the dough with a stand mixer to save time and effort.

Preheat waffle iron: Preheat the waffle iron while the dough is rising to save time.

Divide dough evenly: Use a kitchen scale to divide the dough into equal pieces quickly.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple waffles at once if your waffle iron allows, to speed up the process.