Happy International Waffle Day - March 25th

Today, we give thanks to the brilliant minds that invented WAFFLES.

I mean, let's be honest, not many things are as perfect as a waffle, hot off the waffle iron, crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside.

History of the Waffle

4000 years ago, in Ancient Greece, heated iron plates/griddles were being used to make cakes called "obleios" or "wafers".

In America, there is evidence of the first waffle coming with the Dutch immigrants in the 17th century. In 1725, the word "waffle" was associated with the English, French, Dutch and Belgian recipe of what we know and celebrate as the waffle.

The Waffle Iron

The waffle iron was originally a cast-iron, hinged device that was used over open fire. The patent belongs to Cornelius Swartwout from Troy, NY. His idea was born on August 24th, 1869. August 24th is celebrated as National Waffle day in his honor. General Electric introduced the electric waffle iron in 1910 and within 20 years it was a standard kitchen appliance.

Belgian Waffles - What is the difference??

The main difference between your regular waffle and a Belgian waffle is the size. The waffle iron itself is deeper and has larger squares. This gives you more room for your amazing toppings to be happy. :)

Some say the Belgian variety calls for eggs and that a standard waffle doesn't, but I have seen disputing views on this...AND yes, they did originate in Belgium. In Belgium they are widely known to be a street food, mildly sweet and eaten with your hands. They're not meant to be topped with syrup, but you do you. I love to top them with maple syrup, but they were originally intended to be served plain or topped with sliced strawberries and whipped cream.

I'm sharing three of my favorite ways to enjoy waffles.

The Best Waffles

The Best Waffles

The first is my "go to" basic waffle recipe. It is the only one you'll need. I've searched and searched and finally ended up with this version.They come out perfect little pillows of joy every single time.

Loaded Cornbread Chili Waffles

Loaded Cornbread Chili Waffles

The next recipe is a savory favorite. We LOVE chili here and I often make a big, cast-iron skillet of cornbread to serve alongside our bowl of chili.

This got my brain thinking...could I make a waffle as a cornbread base and serve the chili on top? I tried a few versions and finally came up with this recipe. I added a touch of honey to keep things my own.

I always add honey to my skillet cornbread mix, too.

Top these beauties with what makes you happy and enjoy!

Leftover Stuffing Waffles

Leftover Stuffing Waffles

Turkey day brings a Friday full of shopping and leftovers.

I much prefer the leftovers! These waffles are the most unique way to finish your leftovers from Thanksgiving. My family requests the classic turkey feast a few times a year and we often have enough leftovers to make these fun waffles. Be aware, they take a little longer on the waffle iron than the normal breakfast variety because of the eggs in the mix and the thick texture of the filling. Be patient because they are so worth it. Let them get the good, crispy yummy edges. You're going to LOVE these!

Go celebrate with your favorite waffles!!! Enjoy!

(and there is always room for more syrup)