Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (2024)

These authentic Belgian waffles (made with a secret ingredient) are fluffy, crispy and simply irresistible!

Learn the best tips and tricks to make this homemade waffle dough with yeast.

A dollop of sweetened creme fraîche and fresh fruit is all you need to reach Belgian waffle bliss. Enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or a fabulous brunch with family and friends!

Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (1)

Table of Contents

  • What are Belgian Waffles?
  • Ingredients and Substitutions
  • What Is Pearl Sugar?
  • Tools to Use
  • How to Make
  • How to Make Sweetened Creme Fraîche
  • Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Dietary Considerations
  • How to Store
  • How to Reheat Belgian Waffles
  • More Brunch Inspiration
  • Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe
  • Explore More

I really should call these “waffles so good, we had them for breakfast and dinner,” but, for the sake of being plain, I’ll call them the best Belgian Waffles. These are true Belgian Waffles and I’m not backing down!

Years ago, my friends and I ventured to Bruges Waffles in Salt Lake City. I knew from the first bite that I never wanted another ordinary waffle again.

What differentiates these from traditional waffles is that they’re made from dough. Really fabulous dough (which we will talk about in a bit).

Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (2)

What are Belgian Waffles?

Thick, delightful waffles made from dough (not batter) with pearl sugar hidden inside to pack a little crunch. They’re often topped with sweetened creme fraîche and fruit, but they’re so amazing, they don’t need anything. There’s just no comparison!

Don’t even think about adding butter and syrup. You won’t need them, and that’s what makes these so special and so different! Trust me, you’ll never want to eat a traditional waffle again!

What’s the Difference Between A Belgian Waffle And A Regular Waffle?

There are two ingredients – yeast and Belgian pearl sugar. The yeast creates a chewy texture, while the pearl sugar adds those little pockets of sweetness.

In the waffle iron, the little bits of sugar caramelize into little bites of happiness… pure happiness and joy.

For more of my favorite Easy Breakfast Ideas, head over to this incredible roundup!

Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (3)

Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Active Dry Yeast – This is one of the secrets that sets this authentic Belgian waffle recipe apart from the rest. The yeast not only creates lift and adds flavor, but it provides that extra special chewiness you will never get from a traditional waffle recipe. Learn more about Baking with Yeast here.
  • Lukewarm Milk – For best results, bring it to a temperature of 100 degrees, either over low heat on the stovetop or in 30-second increments in the microwave. If you don’t have an instant read thermometer, no worries. It should feel slightly warm when you stick your finger in the center.
  • Eggs – The eggs bind the batter, but also provide richness.
  • ButterMelted and cooled. If the butter is too hot when adding to the yeast mixture, it will kill the yeast. Again, it should be slightly warm to the touch.
  • Vanilla – A decadent sweetness you just can’t get from sugar.
  • Flour – Unbleached, all-purpose flour is all you need. The yeast is going to provide much of the structure and chewiness.
  • Salt – For balance and flavor, fine sea salt works best. It dissolves more easily into the batter.
  • Belgian Pearl SugarThe secret ingredient! Besides the yeast, this is what makes an authentic Belgian waffle recipe so superior! You can make Pearl Sugar, or buy it pre-made. Read on to learn more about this special sugar.

What Is Pearl Sugar?

How I went for years without knowing about Belgian pearl sugar, I do not know. But this is what gives the fluffy waffle recipe it’s authenticity.

It’s simply compressed sugar crystals that are formed to create larger sugar pieces that will not dissolve into baked goods.

You can find them at specialty food stores, World Market and gourmet super markets. But note, there’s Swedish pearl sugar and Belgian pearl sugar. I highly recommend the Belgian because they are larger in size.

How to Make

  1. Activate Yeast – Sprinkle the yeast over the lukewarm milk in a large shallow bowl. Let sit for 15 minutes. Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (5) Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (6)
  2. Combine Wet IngredientsWhisk in eggs, butter and vanilla into the yeast mixture until just combined. Set aside. Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (7)
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate large bowl, mix flour and salt. Create a well in the center. Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (8)
  4. Make a Well – Pour the wet ingredients into the well and gently mix until the Belgian waffle dough just comes together.Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (9)
  5. Rise – Cover bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow to rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (10) Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (11)
  6. Stir in pearl sugar.Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (12)
  7. Make in Waffle Iron – Place a ball of dough into the center of a waffle iron pre-heated to medium high and cook until golden, about 3 minutes.
  8. Garnish – Top with sweetened creme fraîche, fresh fruit and enjoy!

How to Make Sweetened Creme Fraîche

Yes, you can make it from scratch, but I love a shortcut! We like our Creme Fraîche a little sweeter than it comes at the store.

  • Combine 7.5 ounces (one container) pre-made creme fraîche with 1/2 cup powdered sugar.
  • Whisk until combined and there are no remaining powdered sugar lumps.
  • Store for up to one week in a sealed container in the fridge.
Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (13)
Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (14)

Tips

  • I specify lukewarm milk since the warmer temperature helps activate the yeast.
  • Your butter should also be lukewarm in this recipe.
  • If you’re feeling festive, make your own heart-shaped strawberries! Simply remove the stem, cut a small v and slice vertically. Simple and beautiful!
  • These Belgian waffles are much heavier than a traditional waffle.
  • The homemade waffles remain crunchy hours later, if you want to save some for dessert. Feel free to add a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate decadence.
  • You could also cover the dough for use later in the day/evening. Yes, I’ve tried both (in the name of research) and the waffles came out beautifully!
Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (15)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook a Belgian waffle?

This answer can vary depending on the model and setting of your waffle iron. As the homemade waffle dough cooks, it will release steam. Wait for the steam to stop coming out to check for doneness. At medium high heat it takes about 3 minutes.

What goes with Belgian waffles?

These authentic Belgian waffles do not even need maple syrup or butter, that’s how good they are! But to really take them over the top, I enjoy a dollop of sweetened creme fraîche and fresh sliced strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

  • Creme Fraîche or this Creme Fraiche Substitute
  • Strawberry Syrup
  • Raspberry Sauce
  • Chocolate Sauce
  • Fleur de Sel Caramel Sauce
  • Mascarpone Cream
  • Fresh Fruit – Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries or bananas
Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (16)

Dietary Considerations

  • To make Gluten Free, use a 1:1 gluten free flour meant for baking.
  • Nut Free
  • Vegetarian

How to Store

  • Room Temperature – Belgian Waffles can sit out at room temperature for up to two hours safely.
  • Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
  • Freeze – Allow to cool. Line baking sheet with parchment. Place cooled waffles on the baking sheet 1/2″ apart. Freeze 2 hours. Place in freezer safe airtight container and freeze up to 4 months.

How to Reheat Belgian Waffles

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Line baking sheet with parchment. Add waffles.
  3. Bake 10 -15 minutes.
Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (17)

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Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (22)

5 from 15 votes

Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe

By Julie Blanner

An Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe made with a secret ingredient. Dollop with creme fraiche and fresh fruit to enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Prep: 15 minutes mins

Cook: 3 minutes mins

Resting Time: 45 minutes mins

Total: 1 hour hr 3 minutes mins

Servings: 8

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Ingredients

  • 1 package active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup lukewarm milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup butter melted and cooled (slightly warm)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces Belgian pearl sugar

Instructions

  • Sprinkle the yeast over warm milk in a bowl (no more than 100 degrees F). Let is stand 15 minutes.

  • Whisk eggs, butter and vanilla into yeast mixture until blended. Set aside.

  • Mix flour and salt. Create a well.

  • Pour liquid mixture into well and stir until combined into dough.

  • Cover bowl with a light cloth and allow to rise in a warm place 30 minutes.

  • Stir in pearl sugar.

  • Place a ball of dough on medium high waffle iron and cook until golden – about 3 minutes.

Tips

Substitutions and Notes

  • Lukewarm Milk – I specify lukewarm milk since the warmer temperature helps activate the yeast. For best results, bring it to a temperature of 100 degrees, either over low heat on the stovetop or in 30-second increments in the microwave. If you don’t have an instant read thermometer, no worries. It should feel slightly warm when you stick your finger in the center.
  • Butter – Salted or unsalted. Melted and cooled. If the butter is too hot when adding to the yeast mixture, it will kill the yeast. It should be just slightly warm to the touch.

Make Creme Fraîche

Yes, you can make it from scratch, but I love a shortcut! We like our Creme Fraîche a little sweeter than it comes at the store.

  • Combine 7.5 ounces (one container) pre-made creme fraîche with 1/2 cup powdered sugar.
  • Whisk until combined and there are no remaining powdered sugar lumps.
  • Store for up to one week in a sealed container in the fridge.

To Store

  • Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
  • Freeze – Allow to cool. Line baking sheet with parchment. Place cooled waffles on the baking sheet 1/2″ apart. Freeze 2 hours. Place in freezer safe airtight container and freeze up to 4 months.

To Reheat

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Farenheit.
  2. Line baking sheet with parchment. Add waffles.
  3. Bake 10 -15 minutes.

Calories: 524kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 125mg | Sodium: 383mg | Potassium: 118mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 835IU | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 2mg

Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.

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Authentic Belgian Waffle Recipe | Julie Blanner (2024)

FAQs

Why aren t my Belgian waffles crispy? ›

Not waiting until the iron heats up properly means your waffles will cook, but never achieve that satisfyingly crisp exterior. Overworking the batter will leave your waffles dense and chewy instead of light and airy. And stacking even the most perfect waffles will cause them to become soggy and limp in minutes.

What's the difference between a Belgian waffle and an old fashioned waffle? ›

The ingredients for both regular waffles and Belgian waffles are similar and include flour, milk, eggs, and butter or oil. However, Belgian waffles use egg whites to give a fluffier texture. Additionally, Belgian waffles have yeast in their recipe while regular waffles use baking powder.

What is the difference between a classic and Belgian waffle maker? ›

✔️ Classic waffle makers have thinner plates than Belgian waffle makers and yield thinner waffles that are crispier throughout. The main difference between a regular, classic waffle and a Belgian waffle is that classic waffles don't have that thick, fluffy interior.

What is the secret to making crispy waffles? ›

Cornstarch is our secret ingredient for making the crispiest waffles. Cornstarch guarantees that the waffles will be perfectly crisp and tender. Baking powder and baking soda help the waffles rise and brown. For the lightest waffles, I recommend using both.

What is the secret to making good waffles? ›

Here are some tips:
  • Strike while the iron's hot. If your waffles come out pale and soft, it could be because the appliance isn't hot enough. ...
  • Whip your whites. ...
  • Opt for oil instead of butter. ...
  • Try a yeasted-waffle recipe. ...
  • Add cornstarch. ...
  • Finish them in the oven.
Apr 9, 2022

What is the difference between a Dutch waffle and a Belgian waffle? ›

Belgian waffles taste more soft and crispy, while waffles in the Netherlands are made from a heavier batter with a chewy and sticky texture. Another prominent difference lies in the shapes used by Belgian and Dutch styles. The former is in the shape of rectangle and the latter is round.

What is the famous Belgian waffle brand? ›

Famous Belgian Waffles was established September 16, 2012. Without skipping a beat, after 5 productive years, Famous Belgian Waffles now has more than 500 branches including 1 in San Diego, California and counting. It has grown from kiosks to semi coffee shop concept.

What is the difference between German waffles and Belgian waffles? ›

In comparison to thick, rectangular Belgian waffles, German waffles are typically baked in a heart-shaped waffle maker and are much thinner. The batter has more sugar which makes the waffles incredibly delicious on their own. Belgian Liege waffles are typically sweeter as the batter includes pearl sugar.

Should you let waffle batter rest? ›

Recommended overnight or 2 hr resting – for the tastiest waffles, rest the batter overnight in the fridge or for at least 2 hours. This makes the flour grains absorb the liquid so it makes the inside of the waffles softer.

How do you keep Belgian waffles crispy? ›

Other Ways to Keep Waffles from Getting Soggy
  1. Place your waffles on a cooling rack in a low-heat oven (don't stack the waffles on top of each other).
  2. Throw your waffles in a toaster to refresh their crispiness.
  3. Make sure your waffle iron is very hot.
Mar 17, 2023

Can I use regular waffle mix in a Belgian waffle maker? ›

Can You Make Regular Waffles in a Belgian Waffle Maker? Sure! Since regular waffles are denser than Belgian ones, increase the leavening agent—usually baking powder—in your recipe to adjust the texture.

Why do you have to flip a Belgian waffle maker? ›

Their process of operation works as follows: When you pour the batter onto the waffle maker, it starts to spread and cook on the bottom plates. Then you have to flip the machine over allowing direct contact so that the batter pours onto the top plates. This ensures both sides of the waffle brown evenly and cook faster.

Can you use regular pancake mix in a Belgian waffle maker? ›

To use your pancake mix to make waffles, you'll need to add a little extra oil to use it as a waffle recipe. Here's the formula: For every cup of dry pancake mix, just add 2 extra tablespoons of oil.

What is the difference between Norwegian and Belgian waffles? ›

Either way, Norwegian waffles are thinner and softer than the American or Belgian versions and the best thing is that they can be enjoyed throughout the day, as any time is waffle-time in Norway. They are even served at the Nordic cuisine phenomenon Maaemo, a restaurant that scooped three Michelin stars in 2019.

Are Belgian waffles supposed to be hard? ›

Texture – In Belgian waffles, the eggs are separated. The yolks are whisked together with the other wet ingredients, while the whites are whipped to stiff peaks and then folded into the batter at the end. This creates a texture that is crisp on the outside and light and tender on the inside.

Why are Belgian waffles so dense? ›

In contrast, Belgian waffle batter is denser and contains less leavening, which results in a heavier, more compact texture. The batter also often contains sugar, which can cause the waffles to stick to the griddle as they cook.

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