Liège Waffle with Warm Chocolate Sauce
Background and History
The Liège Waffle, known for its rich flavor and crunchy sugar-studded exterior, hails from the historic region of Wallonia in Belgium. Unlike its lighter cousin, the Brussels waffle, the Liège waffle is denser and sweeter thanks to the incorporation of pearl sugar and a brioche-like dough. Legend has it that the Liège waffle was created by the chef of the Prince-Bishop of Liège in the 18th century, who requested a sweet treat that would be memorable and flavorful. This historic waffle has since become a beloved street food, appealing to locals and tourists alike.
Ingredients
Waffle Batter
- Flour - 350g
- Lukewarm milk - 120ml
- Instant yeast - 5g
- Eggs - 2
- Unsalted butter - 200g, softened
- Pearl sugar - 200g
- Brown sugar - 50g
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
Warm Chocolate Sauce
- Dark chocolate - 150g
- Heavy cream - 120ml
- Sugar - 30g
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Preparing the Waffle Dough
Start by combining lukewarm milk and instant yeast in a mixing bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a separate large bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Add eggs and begin mixing until a rough dough forms.
Incorporating Butter
Add unsalted butter little by little, making sure each addition is fully incorporated before adding the next. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, approximately 10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment.
Letting the Dough Rise
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Adding Pearl Sugar
Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a clean surface. Knead in the pearl sugar , ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dough. Divide the dough into uniform portions, each weighing approximately 100g.
Cooking Process
Cooking the Waffles
Preheat a waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Place a portion of dough in the center of the preheated waffle iron and cook until the waffle is golden brown and the sugar has caramelized, about 3-5 minutes. Repeat with the remaining dough portions. For precise timing, refer to a cooking timer.
Making the Chocolate Sauce
For the warm chocolate sauce, melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir in heavy cream, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and glossy. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Serving
Place warm Liège waffles on a plate and generously drizzle with warm chocolate sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of the indulgent combination of caramelized waffles with rich chocolate goodness.
For an added experience, top with fresh fruits or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, according to preference.