These traditional Liège waffles are a beloved Belgian specialty, famous for their soft, chewy texture and rich, buttery flavor. The secret to these waffles lies in the addition of pearl sugar, which melts and caramelizes as the waffles cook, creating a sweet, crunchy exterior. Inside, the waffles are soft and tender, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or a special snack. With their irresistible combination of textures and flavors, these waffles are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This:
You’ll love these Liège waffles for their unique combination of a soft, fluffy interior and a caramelized, crunchy exterior. The yeast-based dough gives the waffles a slight tang, while the butter adds richness, making every bite a delight. The pearl sugar adds a special touch, creating pockets of sweetness that contrast beautifully with the dough. These waffles are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests with an authentic Belgian delicacy.
Perfect Occasion:
Liège waffles are perfect for a leisurely breakfast or brunch, offering a warm, comforting start to your day. They’re also great as a snack or dessert, paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. These waffles are versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings, such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet morning at home, these waffles are a delicious way to indulge.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra special presentation, dust the waffles with powdered sugar before serving. You can also top them with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat. Drizzling the waffles with melted chocolate or caramel sauce adds a rich, indulgent touch, and a few sprigs of fresh mint can add a pop of color. For a classic Belgian touch, serve the waffles with a small dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour (T45)
- 200g semi-salted butter
- 40g brown sugar or cane sugar
- 200g milk
- 2 eggs
- 7g instant dry yeast
- 150g pearl sugar (large sugar crystals)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Warm the milk slightly (about 20 seconds in the microwave) until it is lukewarm. Pour the warm milk into the bowl of a stand mixer and dissolve the instant yeast in it.
- Add the flour, brown sugar, and eggs to the bowl. Mix on low speed for about 5 minutes until the ingredients are well combined and a dough forms.
- Gradually add the softened butter in small pieces, continuing to mix on low speed for another 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Shape the dough into a ball and cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise at room temperature for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Incorporate the Pearl Sugar:
- After the dough has risen, add the pearl sugar. Gently press the dough down to release some of the air (degassing) and fold in the sugar using a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Shape the Waffles:
- Divide the dough into portions of about 100 grams each for large waffles. Shape each portion into a ball and place them on a sheet of parchment paper.
- Cook the Waffles:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once hot, place one portion of dough onto the iron and cook until the waffle is golden brown and the sugar has caramelized, about 3-5 minutes depending on your waffle iron.
- Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Liège waffles warm, plain or with your favorite toppings. Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast or a delightful snack.
Enjoy!