Liege Belgian Waffles Recipe

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

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, giving the waffles their light and airy texture.

Lukewarm 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: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the dough.

Unsalted butter: Adds flavor and moisture, making the waffles tender.

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

When incorporating the pearl sugar into the dough, ensure you fold it in gently to avoid breaking the large crystals. This will help maintain their unique texture and create those delightful pockets of caramelized sweetness in your Liege Belgian waffles. Additionally, using room temperature eggs and lukewarm milk helps the yeast activate more effectively, resulting in a better rise and fluffier texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the waffles denser.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used directly without proofing and will help the dough rise faster.

• lukewarm milk - Substitute with lukewarm almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that maintains the liquid consistency needed.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor but with a slightly different mineral content.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs are a vegan alternative made by mixing ground flaxseed with water, which can help bind the ingredients.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor and similar fat content.

• pearl sugar - Substitute with crushed sugar cubes: Crushed sugar cubes can mimic the crunch and sweetness of pearl sugar, though the texture may be slightly different.

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

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

• If you plan to keep them longer, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.

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

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the waffles directly from the freezer. You can use a toaster, toaster oven, or conventional oven. For the best results, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crispy.

• Avoid using a microwave to reheat, as it can make the waffles chewy instead of crispy.

• If you have leftover pearl sugar, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can be used for future batches or other desserts.

• For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar or drizzle some maple syrup over the reheated waffles before serving.

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

• Toaster Method: If you prefer a quicker method, pop the waffles into a toaster. Toast on a medium setting until they are heated through and the edges are crispy. Be cautious not to burn the caramelized pearl sugar.

• Microwave Method: For a softer texture, place the waffles on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for about 30-45 seconds. This method is faster but may not keep the waffles as crispy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place the waffles in the skillet and heat 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 a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook. This method keeps the waffles crispy and delicious.

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

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

• Cloth: Used to cover the bowl while the dough rises.

• Waffle iron: Used to cook the dough into golden brown and caramelized waffles.

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

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

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

• Spatula: Used to fold the pearl sugar into the dough.

• Scoop: Used to portion out the dough onto the waffle iron.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the waffles slightly before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine the dough, saving you time and effort.

Preheat waffle iron early: Turn on your waffle iron while the dough is rising to save time.

Room temperature eggs: Use room temperature eggs to help the dough mix more evenly and rise faster.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple waffles at once if your waffle iron allows, reducing overall cooking time.