Stroopwafel Bliss

Background of Stroopwafel

Originating from the Netherlands, the stroopwafel is a unique and delightful treat that dates back to the 18th century. It is believed to have been first made in the city of Gouda by a resourceful baker, who utilized leftovers of breadcrumbs and other ingredients. The combination of thin waffles and sticky sweet syrup filling soon became a favorite, and now it's enjoyed worldwide.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Brown Sugar - 1 cup
• Unsalted Butter - 1 cup, melted
• Milk - 1 cup
• Active Dry Yeast - 2 teaspoons
• Egg - 1
• Ground Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Syrup - 1 cup (or molasses)
• Pinch of salt

Preparation

Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and set aside for about 5 minutes until it's frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
4. Mix until a soft dough forms. You may need to work it with your hands for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise for an hour in a warm place, or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Syrup

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture has reduced slightly, becoming more viscous.
3. Keep warm while preparing the waffles.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat your waffle iron, making sure it is well-greased to prevent sticking.
2. Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Place a dough ball into the center of the waffle iron and press until flat. Cook according to the manufacturer's instructions or until golden brown.
4. Once cooked, carefully slice the waffle horizontally while it's still warm, using a sharp knife.
5. Spread a generous amount of the warm syrup mixture onto one half of the waffle, then sandwich with the other half.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.

Enjoying Your Stroopwafel Bliss

The best way to enjoy a stroopwafel is to place it over a hot cup of tea or coffee. The steam gently softens the syrup, and the aroma of cinnamon fills the air. It is a delightful accompaniment to a morning or afternoon break, savoring the rich, buttery layers that are both chewy and crisp.

Additional Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Customize your stroopwafels by adding vanilla or nutmeg to the dough for a different flavor profile.
• If your syrup thickens too much, gently reheat it with a bit of milk to restore its consistency.