Liege Waffle
Gaufre de Liège
- Country
- Belgium
- Region
- Liège
- Recipes
- 3 Recipes
Origins & Characteristics of Liege Waffle
The Liège waffle, or 'Gaufre de Liège,' is a beloved Belgian pastry renowned for its dense texture and intensely sweet, caramelized flavor. Unlike the lighter, often rectangular Brussels waffle, the Liège waffle is irregularly shaped, typically oval or round, and is made with a brioche-like dough enriched with butter and eggs. Its defining characteristic is the inclusion of pearl sugar (sucre perlé) within the dough. This coarse, hard sugar doesn't melt completely during baking; instead, it caramelizes on the waffle iron's surface, creating pockets of intense sweetness and a delightful crunch. Originating from the city of Liège in Wallonia, the precise date of its invention is debated, but it became widely popular in the 18th century, evolving from earlier forms of sweet breads. Legend attributes its creation to a cook of the Prince-Bishop of Liège who wanted to create a special treat. These waffles were historically sold by street vendors, making them an accessible and beloved snack. They are typically enjoyed on their own, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze, as their inherent sweetness is a core part of the experience. The Liège waffle is a symbol of its namesake city and a quintessential Belgian sweet, cherished for its unique texture and satisfying, caramelized taste that evokes childhood memories and festive occasions.
History of Liege Waffle
The Liège waffle, with pearl sugar, likely emerged as a distinct pastry in Liège.
Street vendors popularized the Gaufre de Liège, making it a common street food snack.
The Liège waffle became recognized as a symbol of the city and a national Belgian delicacy.
The first official 'gaufre de Liège' stand opened at the Brussels Universal and International Exposition.
