Bergische Waffles

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm milk 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm milk
• 4 tablespoons (50g) granulated sugar 4 tablespoons (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs, separated 3 large eggs, separated
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream, for serving Whipped cream, for serving
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Tart cherries or berry compote, for serving Tart cherries or berry compote, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 15g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. Mix until well combined.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until fully incorporated.
4. 4.
   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat a waffle iron and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
6. 6.
   Pour a ladleful of batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden brown and crispy.
7. 7.
   Repeat with the remaining batter.
8. 8.
   Serve the Bergische Waffles warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a side of tart cherries or berry compote.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active to achieve a good rise in the batter.
• Tart cherries or berry compote — If fresh tart cherries are not available, you can use frozen cherries or substitute with your favorite berry compote.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispiness, you can sprinkle a little sugar on the waffle iron before pouring the batter.
• If you prefer a stronger vanilla flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla sugar to the batter.
• To keep the waffles warm and crispy, place them on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F) until ready to serve.
• Experiment with different toppings such as chocolate sauce, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of honey.
• Leftover waffles can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in a toaster or oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Bergische Waffles warm to fully enjoy their delightful texture. Top them with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a side of tart cherries or berry compote. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a truly satisfying experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Bergische Waffles on a plate, slightly overlapping each other. Place a quenelle of whipped cream on top of the waffles and dust them with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant touch. Serve the tart cherries or berry compote in a separate bowl on the side.