Whether you’re all about classic syrup and butter or piling on the toppings, there’s no denying that waffles are a crowd-pleaser. With fluffy insides and crispy outsides, a waffle fried up on enameled cast iron cookware or in your favorite waffle iron is close to perfection.
So, how do you make waffles that are worthy of their own holiday? Let’s break down when to celebrate, why waffles deserve the spotlight, and the step-by-step to getting them just right.
When Is International Waffle Day?
Circle March 25th on your calendar because that’s International Waffle Day! This delicious day originated in Sweden, known there as Våffeldagen, which marks the beginning of spring. The tradition quickly spread, gaining popularity worldwide as a perfect excuse to indulge in this beloved breakfast treat.
If one day isn’t enough, there’s also National Waffle Day in the U.S. on August 24th, commemorating the patenting of the first waffle iron by Cornelius Swarthout in 1869.
Why Celebrate Waffles?
Honestly, do you really need a reason? Waffles are one of those foods that just make life better. They’re crispy, fluffy, and taste great with just about any type of topping — sweet, savory, or somewhere in between.
Whether you grew up with weekend waffle breakfasts, discovered the magic of chicken and waffles, or just love any excuse to pile on toppings, there’s a version out there for everyone.
Of course, let’s not forget how fun they are to make. Something about pouring the batter, flipping the iron (or waiting for the light to turn green), and watching that golden perfection come to life is just satisfying.
Make a big batch, throw on some toppings, and suddenly, breakfast feels like a celebration.
How Do You Make the Perfect Waffle?
So, how do you turn basic batter into crispy, golden perfection? Although there are plenty of ways to make waffles, getting them just right comes down to a few key steps.
1. Use the Right Ingredients
Great waffles start with great ingredients. A typical batter includes flour, eggs, milk, butter, sugar, and a leavening agent like baking powder. But if you want next-level waffles, don’t be afraid to tweak your recipe.
Adding a little cornstarch helps with crispiness, while buttermilk in place of regular milk gives waffles a richer flavor. And if you love that deep golden color? A pinch of sugar in the batter helps caramelize the edges.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
It’s tempting to whisk your batter until it’s perfectly smooth, but that’s actually a mistake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which leads to dense, chewy waffles instead of light, airy ones. Instead, stir the ingredients together gently until just combined. A few lumps in the batter are totally fine — they’ll disappear when they’re cooking.
3. Let the Batter Rest
If you have time, let your batter sit for about 10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, giving you a better texture. Plus, it helps relax the gluten, making your waffles softer and fluffier.
4. Preheat Your Waffle Maker (and Grease It!)
A properly heated waffle iron is key. If it’s not hot enough, your waffles will turn out pale and limp instead of golden and crispy. Give it time to fully preheat, and lightly grease it before adding your batter. Even if your waffle maker claims to be nonstick, a quick brush of oil or butter helps prevent sticking and ensures crispier edges.
5. Measure the Batter for Even Cooking
Pouring in too much batter leads to overflow, while too little gives you thin, sad waffles. The right amount depends on your waffle maker, but in most cases, ½ to ¾ cup per waffle works well. Use a measuring cup to keep things consistent.
6. Let the Waffle Cook Undisturbed
It’s tempting to peek, but resist the urge to open the waffle maker too soon! Lifting the lid early can cause your waffle to tear apart or cook unevenly. Most waffle makers have an indicator light, but if yours doesn’t, wait until steam stops coming out. That’s usually a good sign that your waffle is done!
7. Keep Waffles Warm and Crispy
Making multiple waffles? Keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish the batch. Instead of stacking them (which traps steam and makes them soggy), place them in a single layer on a wire rack. This keeps them warm and crispy until you’re ready to serve.
Breakfast Is Served!
Now, you’ve got the keys to making the perfect waffle, just in time for International Waffle Day. With the right ingredients, a little patience, and a few simple tricks, you’ll be serving up golden, crispy perfection in no time. Now, all that’s left? Picking your favorite toppings and digging in!
