Belgian waffles are among the most popular breakfast fare. Featuring a fluffy center and crispy exterior, these grid-like squares have a rich flavor that pairs well with toppings such as powdered sugar, fruit compote, and whipped cream. The next time you dine at a breakfast restaurant, you might want to know more about waffles. Here are some fun facts about this widely beloved dish. 

What to Know About Waffles

1. They Date Back to the Middle Ages

Waffles likely originated in Western Europe during the 13th century. Historians believe the first waffle irons were invented by a craftsman who forged irons for cooking. These irons featured a grid-like pattern and hinged design that allowed people to pour batter into them, close them, and set them on an open fire. 

During this same century, the word "waffle" appeared in print for the first time. In an anonymous manuscript called "Le Ménagier de Paris," a Frenchman provided instructions to his wife about how to cook waffles. 

2. The Word Has Many Meanings

The English term "waffle," which appeared in the early 1700s, is a descendant of the Dutch "wafel," the French "walfre," and the German "wefan." All three of these words have roots in the Frankish "wafla," which means honeycomb, cake, or wafer. The Scottish term "waffle," which means "to waver or be indecisive," is not related to the breakfast food. In fact, it likely stems from an imitation of a dog's incomprehensible "waff" or yelping. 

3. There Are Two Main Types

Waffles are available in two primary styles: American and Belgian. Though both contain flour, eggs, and milk, the main difference lies in their leavening agent. The American version uses more baking powder and does not include yeast. The Belgian variation, on the other hand, includes both baking powder and yeast, and chefs may fold whipped egg whites into the batter. 

This usually gives Belgian waffles a much fluffier texture compared to their American counterparts, which are typically flat and dense. Additionally, chefs must flip the iron halfway through when making Belgian waffles, which gives them their characteristic deep pockets and crispy exterior on both sides.

4. They Have Two Holidays

The waffle has two days set aside to honor it. Sweden, Norway, and Denmark celebrate International Waffle Day on March 25th. In these countries, people traditionally celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary by enjoying waffles. In the U.S., National Waffle Day falls on August 24th, which is the day the American inventor Cornelius Swarthout received the first U.S. patent for the waffle iron. 

When you're in the mood for delicious waffles, head to Belgian Waffle & Pancake House. They offer fluffy Belgian waffles served with toppings such as cinnamon, sugar, fruit compote, and whipped cream 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 breakfast, brunch, and lunch dishes.