Pancakes and waffles are among the most widely beloved breakfast fare, often enjoyed topped with butter and maple syrup or whipped cream and fruit compote. Though both have a fluffy texture and sweet flavor, you might wonder about what sets these two dishes apart from one another. Here's more about their delicious differences.

What's in the Batter?

To make waffles and pancakes, chefs combine flour, sugar, and eggs with leavening agents, which makes the batter light and porous, giving the breads a fluffy texture during the cooking process. Additionally, they may add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the batter, which can lend the cakes or waffles additional sweetness and a slightly spicy flavor. 

However, waffle batter typically contains more sugar and fats, such as butter or vegetable oil, which helps the exterior develop a caramelized and crispy texture. Additionally, the batter used to make Belgian waffles differs from that of traditional ones, as it is yeast-based and may include egg whites, resulting in an even crispier exterior with a soft, cloud-like interior.  

Pancake batter often contains more baking soda than waffle batter. This is because chefs at breakfast restaurants typically add buttermilk, which causes lactic acid to react with the baking soda, releasing carbon dioxide bubbles that make the cakes delectably light and airy. 

What Are the Cooking Differences?

To prepare waffles, chefs pour the batter into a hot iron coated in oil or butter. However, making Belgian waffles requires the use of a round iron with a larger grid and deeper pockets, which makes these waffles thicker. 

After pouring the batter into the iron and closing the lid, chefs allow it to cook for a few minutes; then, they flip the iron to ensure the waffle cooks all the way through before serving. The hot iron's greased metal caramelizes the exterior of the waffle to make it crunchy. 

For pancakes, chefs pour the batter directly onto a hot, flat cooking surface, allowing it to spread until it becomes perfectly circular and reaches the desired size. They typically apply oil to the cooking surface before pouring the batter, which helps the cake caramelize. Once the pancakes turn golden brown on both sides and cook through the center, they are ready to serve. 

The next time you're in the mood for Belgian waffles and buttermilk pancakes, head to Belgian Waffle & Pancake House. This restaurant offers delicious breakfast and brunch dishes to hungry patrons throughout Branson, MO. Call (417) 334-8484 to place an order for takeout, and visit the website to browse their complete menu of entrees, sides, and beverages.