Waffles are the superlative brunch food. They are fairly simple to make and the batter can be prepared in advance to save time when cooking and serving. The flavors and textures of waffles are agreeable to the
mouth while their shapes and patterns make a pleasing visual experience. Although new waffle irons are coming out all the time that increase the choices of shapes and sizes, there are a few traditional irons that are generally used for
specific types of waffles. The two most popular are the American and the Belgian. American waffles contain baking powder as a leavening agent and are generally circular with four sections cutting across the circle. Belgian waffles use
yeast to help them rise, are much thicker than other types of waffles, and are formed into squares.
Perhaps the most common toppings for waffles are butter and maple syrup. Fresh fruit and berries, either whole or simmered into a sauce, also make wonderful options for dressing waffles and can be served with or without whipped cream. Some people prefer
a more simplistic finish such as powdered sugar or a combination of sugar and cinnamon. For a sweet tooth, try spooning jam or jelly on waffles or garnish with a scoop of ice cream. Spreading peanut butter or Nutella on waffles will add protein as well
as flavor. Waffles can be stuffed with a sweet and warm combination of butter, cinnamon, syrup and brown sugar or with savory ingredients like bacon, sausage and scrambled eggs. Delicious waffles, whether sweet or savory, are quintessential brunch foods
that everyone is sure to appreciate.
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