Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use the same quantity of instant yeast, and skip the step of activating the yeast in warm milk. Simply combine the ingredients and knead.

What can I substitute pearl sugar with?

I do not recommend substituting the pearl sugar, as that is a key ingredient in Liege waffles. However, if you don't have any choice, you can use sugar in the form of larger grains.

Can I make Belgian Liege waffles without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can, but note that the dough is quite sticky and might be challenging to work with. I recommend starting with a large wooden spoon, and then turn out the dough onto your counter and use a push / pull motion to knead it until it loses its stickiness. It will be quite messy when you're incorporating the butter, and using a dough scraper can make the process a bit easier.

Why are my waffles undercooked / overcooked?

This comes down to the settings of your waffle iron. Since all waffle irons are different, I cannot give you an exact time or setting. I suggest using the first waffle as a test, and using it to adjust the temperature and timing of the remaining waffles. Perfectly cooked Liege waffles should have a crispy, caramelized crust, and a soft chewy center.

Belgian Liege Waffles (Blue Bottle Copycat)

Name: BELGIAN LIEGE WAFFLES (BLUE BOTTLE COPYCAT) RECIPE
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-479587H3M6S
Cuisine: Belgian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup milk (120g), warm; 1 tsp active dry yeast; 2 tbsp light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups all purpose flour (260g); 6 tbsp unsalted butter (85g), room temperature; 2/3 cup Pearl sugar (130g)

Description

Belgian style Liege waffles with a crispy, caramelized crust and chewy interior

Ingredients

1/2 cup milk (120g), warm
1 tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups all purpose flour (260g)
6 tbsp unsalted butter (85g), room temperature
2/3 cup Pearl sugar (130g)

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Instructions

Add the warm milk, active dry yeast and brown sugar to the bowl of your stand mixer. Whisk and rest for 10 minutes to activate the yeast
Add the flour, egg, salt and vanilla, and knead using the dough hook attachment for 3 minutes until a dough forms
Add the softened butter, and knead on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until the butter is incorporated and a soft, stretchy dough forms
Transfer the dough to a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 60 minutes)
Once the dough has risen, flatten it out on a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle over half of the pearl sugar, press in, and roll up the dough. Flatten it again and repeat with the other half of the pearl sugar. Stretch and knead the dough to fully incorporate the pearl sugar in it
Pre-heat the waffle maker for about 10 minutes
Divide the dough into 4 equal parts
Working one piece at a time, cook the waffles until they are golden and cooked through. The exact time will depend on your waffle maker, but for me ~6-7 minutes on medium heat worked best
Serve with Nutella and fresh berries (or on their own), and enjoy!

Notes

You can also make this dough without a stand mixer, using a large wooden spoon and your hands, but it will be sticky and challenging as the dough is quite wet
Use the first waffle to determine the perfect time and temperature for your waffle iron, and adjust for the remaining waffles accordingly
These waffles are best eaten fresh and warm!

Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: Belgian