How to Make Perfectly Fluffy Waffles

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of perfectly fluffy waffles. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a brunch with friends, waffles are the ultimate treat. Achieving that ideal balance of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect waffles every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need:
●    2 cups all-purpose flour
●    Two tablespoons sugar
●    One tablespoon baking powder
●    1/2 teaspoon salt
●    Two large eggs
●    1 3/4 cups milk
●    1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
●    One teaspoon vanilla extract

Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Iron
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is crucial because a hot waffle iron ensures that your waffles cook evenly and develop a crisp exterior.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly helps distribute the baking powder evenly, critical to getting that fluffy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are light and frothy. Add the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract to the eggs and whisk until well combined. The frothy eggs help incorporate air into the batter, contributing to the fluffiness of the waffles.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Create a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently stir until the batter is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense waffles instead of light and fluffy ones.

Step 5: Let the Batter Rest
Letting the batter rest for about 5 minutes allows the baking powder to activate and the gluten to relax, which results in fluffier waffles. Use this time to make sure your waffle iron is heated correctly.

Step 6: Cook the Waffles
Once your waffle iron is hot, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a brush of melted butter. Pour enough batter to fill the waffle iron without overflowing (typically around 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on your iron’s size). Close the lid and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
For the best texture, serve your waffles immediately. If you need to keep them warm while you make more, place them on a wire rack in a single layer in a preheated oven at 200°F. This prevents them from getting soggy.

Topping Ideas
The beauty of waffles lies in their versatility. Here are some topping ideas to elevate your fluffy waffles:
●    Fresh berries and whipped cream
●    Sliced bananas and a drizzle of chocolate sauce
●    Maple syrup and a pat of butter
●    Greek yoghurt and honey
●    Nutella and chopped nuts

Conclusion
Making perfectly fluffy waffles is an art, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can master it effortlessly. Follow these steps and enjoy a delicious breakfast that’s sure to impress. Whether you prefer plain or loaded with toppings, these waffles are a delightful way to start your day. So, dust off that waffle iron and treat yourself to a stack of homemade goodness!