Homemade Liège Waffles

Liège waffles are a Belgian specialty known for their rich brioche-like dough, soft texture, and caramelized pearl sugar chunks. Golden, slightly crispy, and irresistibly sweet, they are best enjoyed warm, either plain or with toppings like fruits, chocolate, or whipped cream.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar

• 1 pinch of salt

• 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast (or 20 g fresh yeast)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 150 g unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 to 1 1/4 cups (150-180 g) pearl sugar

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast:
   Mix the yeast with warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.

2. Make the dough:
   Combine flour, the remaining sugar, and salt. Add the eggs, yeast mixture, and vanilla. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Add the butter:
   Gradually knead in the butter for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First proof:
   Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

5. Add pearl sugar:
   Gently fold in the pearl sugar.

6. Shape into balls:
   Divide the dough into 100 g portions. Let them rest for 15 minutes.

7. Cook:
   Bake in a preheated waffle iron for 3-5 minutes until golden and caramelized.

8. Enjoy warm!