Liège Waffles with Pearl Sugar
Authentic Liège waffles are dense, chewy, and caramelized on the outside due to the inclusion of pearl sugar in the dough. Unlike Brussels waffles, they are typically eaten on their own as a sweet treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 10 g Active dry yeast
- 150 ml Milk(lukewarm)
- 50 g Granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 large Eggs
- 150 g Unsalted butter(melted and slightly cooled)
- 150 g Pearl sugar (suikerparels)(for embedding in the dough)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine lukewarm milk with yeast and a pinch of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining granulated sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- 3
Pour the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract into the well. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough will be sticky.
- 5
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 6
Gently punch down the dough. Fold in the pearl sugar, distributing it evenly without overmixing.
- 7
Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions (a Belgian waffle iron is ideal). Lightly grease if necessary.
- 8
Scoop about 1/2 cup of dough per waffle onto the hot iron, spreading it slightly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized. The pearl sugar will melt and create a delightful crust.
- 9
Remove waffles and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. They are best served warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Don't overwork the dough after adding the pearl sugar, as it can dissolve too much.
- ✓The dough is meant to be sticky; resist adding too much extra flour.
- ✓A good quality waffle iron is key for achieving the perfect caramelization.
🔄 Variations
- Serve with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor.