A Time-Honored Waffle Recipe for Your Waffle Maker

When seeking out a classic waffle recipe to bring into your kitchen, buttermilk-based waffles and those made with a mix of milk and eggs are age-old favorites. These traditional waffles are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Today, I will share with you a simple yet authentic recipe, handed down from the Holt family, which can be used in any home kitchen equipped with a modern waffle maker. This recipe has stood the test of time, much like the waffle makers themselves, and continues to be a cherished tradition.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Wet Ingredients:

2 cups milk 2 egg yolks

For the Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Egg Whites:

2 egg whites

Melting Mixture:

4 tablespoons butter

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Begin with the Wet Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of milk and 2 egg yolks. This rich base will provide a creamy texture and a light, fluffy quality to your waffles.

2. Prepare the Dry Mix: In a medium-sized bowl, gently mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This combination ensures a light, airy texture and a proper rise.

3. Whip the Egg Whites: In a smaller bowl, gently whip 2 egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Be gentle yet firm to avoid incorporating air into the whites, which could make the batter too light.

4. Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, gently melt 4 tablespoons of butter. This melted butter will add flavor and richness to the waffles.

Combining the Mixtures

1. Start by Mixing the Dry with the Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients over the wet mix in the large bowl, gently stirring only until the dry ingredients have just been incorporated. Overmixing the batter can lead to chewy or tough waffles.

2. Insert the Melted Butter: Fold in the melted butter, stirring until just blended to keep the butter from cooling too quickly and solidifying. This step ensures the butter integrates smoothly without disrupting the batter.

3. Whip the Egg Whites: Carefully fold in the stiff egg whites using a silicone spatula. Start by scraping the sides and coming up in the middle, then gently fold to integrate the egg whites with the batter without deflating them. Fold until they are nearly incorporated, then stir by hand just to include them fully.

Making the Waffles

To use your waffle maker for these waffles, measure out each batter portion using a six-ounce label or a 3/4-cup measuring cup. For the ideal cooking time, aim for 2 to 4 minutes per waffle, depending on your waffle maker's heat settings. It's often best to let the first waffle cook a little longer to settle the batter and prevent it from breaking apart.

Remember, never spray the waffle iron with cooking spray as this can disrupt the cooking process and make your waffles soggy. The first waffle may occasionally stick slightly or have some dark bits from the previous iteration, so it’s usually best to discard or set aside the first one.

Conclusion

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Grandma and Grandpa Holt’s Waffles are a simple and delicious recipe that stands the test of time. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, these waffles make for a delightful treat that you can enjoy with family and friends. Feel free to experiment with toppings from classic butter and syrup to more creative options like fresh berries, honey, or sliced fruit. Happy cooking!