Belgian Waffles
(Vlaamse Wafels, Gaufres a la Flamande)

Yield: about 12 waffles

Ingredients

• 1 envelope active dry yeast
• 2 cups warm milk
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 eggs yolks
• 8 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 egg whites, beaten to soft peaks

Instructions

1. Combine the yeast and 1/4 cup of the warm milk in a small bowl and allow to proof for 5 minutes.
2. Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl and add the egg, yeast mixture, and sugar. Stir to mix well with a wooden spoon. Add the remaining milk and the egg yolks one at a time, stirring to incorporate. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring just to combine. Fold the egg whites into the batter, cover with a towel, and allow to rise for 1 hour.
3. Stir down the batter when ready to cook and cook according to your waffle iron's directions.