Waffles are among the oldest baked goods in Europe and have been enjoyed for centuries. The first written record of them dates back to the 19th century in Belgium and France, which shows just how popular they were even then. It is thought that waffle-making began in monasteries, and that the recipes then spread to Germany. In regions such as Northern Germany, Brandenburg, Baden and Franconia, waffles became a traditional treat for ordinary people, whereas in Southern Germany and Austria, they remained the preserve of the upper class for much longer. Waffles also gained popularity in Scandinavia – in Sweden, for example, they have their own holiday: National Waffle Day on 25 March.
The origin of the word 'waffle'
The exact linguistic origin of the term 'waffle' is unclear. However, it is generally believed that the German word 'Waffel' has Dutch roots and is derived from the word 'honeycomb', reflecting their typical grid-like texture.
There are different types of waffles.
Today, waffles mainly fall into two categories: Brussels waffles and soft waffles. Brussels waffles are easily recognised by their deep, rectangular grid pattern, and are especially popular at fairs and in cafés. They are usually served with powdered sugar, fruit, or whipped cream. Soft waffles, on the other hand, are usually round or heart-shaped and can easily be made at home with a standard waffle maker. They have a strong flavour of their own. A third type is the crispy, dry ice cream waffle, which is typically used as a dessert accompaniment.
The perfect waffle batter
The success of a waffle largely depends on the batter and the baking time. The protein content of the flour determines how chewy the waffle will be. Flours with a higher proportion of whole grain or lower gluten tend to result in less sticky waffles. Moisture is another key factor, as sugar only caramelises properly at around 150 °C, which requires excess water to evaporate. This is why the batter should always be spread thinly. Adding fat and egg yolk makes the texture lighter and more flavourful.
The history of waffles shows that they are much more than just a sweet treat; they are part of European culinary heritage and continue to delight people worldwide.