Fluffy Golden Waffles Recipe

Indulge in these light and fluffy golden waffles, perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch. Quick and easy to make, they are sure to please the whole family!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups warm milk
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Set aside.
2. Preheat your waffle iron to the desired temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Stir in the warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and beat until well blended.
5. Ladle the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook until the waffles are golden and crisp.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings!

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 waffle

Calories: 210, Protein: 5g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Fat: 9g

Why Use Baking Powder?

Baking powder plays a crucial role in achieving the fluffy texture of waffles. Unlike baking soda, which requires an acidic ingredient to activate, baking powder contains both an acid and a base, allowing it to create carbon dioxide bubbles when mixed with the wet ingredients. This reaction occurs when the batter is cooked, causing the waffles to rise and become light and airy. If you want to experiment with whole grain flours or other types of flour, just remember to adjust the amount of baking powder accordingly, as different flours absorb moisture differently.

The Importance of Separating Wet and Dry Ingredients

When making waffles, it s essential to keep your wet and dry ingredients separate until you re ready to combine them. This technique ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients, promoting uniform rising. Additionally, mixing the wet ingredients thoroughly before combining helps to prevent over-mixing, which can lead to tougher waffles. Aim for a few lumps in your batter; a well-mixed batter is not always the best batter!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. However, it s best to use it within a few hours to ensure the waffles maintain their fluffiness. If you let the batter sit too long, the baking powder may lose its effectiveness.

How do I keep my waffles warm while cooking in batches?

To keep your waffles warm, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and place a wire rack on a baking sheet. As each waffle comes out of the iron, place it on the wire rack in the oven. This will keep them warm and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze leftover waffles?

Absolutely! Once the waffles are fully cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or toaster oven until warm and crispy.

Practical Cooking Tips and Tricks

To elevate your waffle-making experience, consider these expert tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature. This helps to create a smoother batter and results in a better rise.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a splash of almond extract or a teaspoon of cinnamon for a unique twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips or blueberries for extra flavor and texture.
• Don t Overcrowd the Waffle Iron: Ladle the right amount of batter for your waffle iron size to avoid overflow. Each waffle should have enough space to expand without spilling over.
• Let the Waffles Rest: If you want an even crispier exterior, let the cooked waffles rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows steam to escape and helps maintain their texture.