Name: Belgian Liege Waffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Belgian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons active dry yeast; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup pearl sugar

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Hey there, fellow dessert enthusiasts! Today, I have a delicious treat that will transport your taste buds right to the charming streets of Belgium: Belgian Liege Waffles. These waffles are not your ordinary breakfast fare; they are rich, decadent, and come with delightful lumps of pearl sugar that caramelize into a sweet, crunchy crust. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the wonderful world of these heavenly treats.

Why Make This Recipe

Now, you may be wondering, “What’s so special about Belgian Liege Waffles?” Well, let me tell you, everything! Unlike traditional waffles, which are light and fluffy, Liege waffles are dense, chewy, and bursting with flavor. They are made with a dough rather than a batter, giving them a delightful texture that is both crispy and chewy. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch from the pearl sugar and a warm, buttery taste that melts in your mouth.

These waffles are perfect for any occasion. They make a brilliant breakfast, a sweet snack, or even a decadent dessert. You can enjoy them plain, top them with whipped cream, or dress them up with fresh fruits and syrup. They’re versatile, indulgent, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You’ll find yourself wanting to make them time and time again!

Delicious Belgian Liege waffles with caramelized sugar topping

How to Make Belgian Liege Waffles

Ready to get started? Here’s a simple guide to whip up these delightful Belgian Liege Waffles right in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons active dry yeast
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup pearl sugar

Directions:

Start by combining the warm milk and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets nice and frothy. This is your magic yeast mixture that will help the dough rise!
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Give it a good mix.
Now, add in the frothy yeast mixture and the eggs. Mix until everything is combined.
Incorporate the softened butter into your dough. If you’re feeling strong, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This might take about 5-7 minutes, but it’s totally worth it!
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place. It should double in size within about an hour. This is the time to sip your coffee and get excited!
Once the dough has risen, fold in the pearl sugar. This is where the magic happens; those little sugar gems will give your waffles their signature crunch!
Preheat your waffle iron to a medium-high setting. Once it’s ready, scoop some dough into the iron and cook until golden brown and caramelized. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; you want that amazing golden crust!
Finally, serve your delicious warm waffles and enjoy!

How to Serve Belgian Liege Waffles

Serving these Belgian Liege Waffles is where the fun really begins! You can keep it classic and serve them warm, straight from the waffle iron. A sprinkling of powdered sugar is always a delightful touch. But if you’re in the mood to get creative, try topping them with:

Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
A dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche
A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
Sliced bananas for extra sweetness
A scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert

The combinations are endless, and each topping can turn your waffle into a unique masterpiece!

How to Store Belgian Liege Waffles

If you find yourself with leftovers (which I doubt will happen), you can store these waffles with ease. Once they’ve cooled, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer; they will last for up to three months! To rewarm, simply toast them in a toaster or place them in the oven for a few minutes, easy peasy!

Tips to Make Belgian Liege Waffles

Use Warm Milk: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot. Too hot will kill the yeast, and too cold will not activate it properly. Aim for around 110°F.
Let It Rise: Don’t rush the rising process! Letting the dough rise until it has doubled is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture.
Experiment with Pearl Sugar: If you can’t find pearl sugar, you can use coarse sugar as a substitute, but the texture won’t be quite the same. Pearl sugar creates that beautiful crunch!

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you might want to try with your Belgian Liege Waffles:

Chocolate Chip: Fold chocolate chips into the dough before cooking for a sweet twist!
Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor.
Savory: Try adding some shredded cheese and herbs to the dough for a unique savory version perfect for brunch!

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before cooking.

2. What is pearl sugar, and where can I find it?
Pearl sugar is a special type of sugar that doesn’t melt easily and creates a lovely crunchy texture on baked goods. You can find it at most specialty stores, or online.

3. Why is my dough not rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be because the yeast was not activated properly or the environment was too cold. Always check the freshness of your yeast and find a warm spot for rising.

So, there you have it! Your guide to making these irresistible Belgian Liege Waffles. I hope you give this recipe a try, and when you do, let the joy of baking fill your kitchen. Remember, every waffle you make is a step toward creating something beautiful and delicious. Happy baking!