The history of waffles goes back to ancient Greece, where flat cakes called “obelios” were prepared and baked between two metal plates. The early versions were plain and salty, which is very different from today’s sweet waffles.
In the Middle Ages, the Greek “obelios” evolved in Europe into thin, crispy wafers baked in decorative iron molds. The molds often had religious symbols, and the baked goods themselves were initially used as communion wafers. Over time, waffles began to appear on city streets as a popular delicacy.
During the Renaissance, the name “waffle” appeared, derived from the Dutch word “wafel”, meaning cake or honeycomb. Recipes began to become more elaborate, including spices, wine and leavening agents. The first written waffle recipe appeared in an anonymous manuscript at the end of the 14th century.
The 19th century brought a new look to Belgian waffles, which are characterized by deep indentations and a light, fluffy structure. They gained international fame at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York.
Today, waffles come in many varieties, from traditional to modern versions with a variety of toppings.
The first waffle recipes in the Middle Ages
Medieval waffles were very different from today’s waffles. The oldest known recipes date back to the 14th century and were written down in the anonymous manuscript “Le Ménagier de Paris”. The document, which was created by a man as a collection of tips for a young woman, contains four versions of the basic recipe.
The main recipe was as follows: “Beat the eggs in a bowl, add salt and wine. Add flour and mix. Gradually fill two baking tins at the same time, using as much dough as a large slice of cheese weighs. Close the tin and bake on both sides. If the dough sticks to the tin, grease it with a piece of cloth soaked in oil or fat.”
The other three variations described different ways of adding cheese: placing it between the layers of dough, mixing grated cheese with the dough, or omitting both cheese and eggs. These original recipes did not contain leavening agents, which is why the baked goods resembled flat wafers rather than fluffy waffles.
Ingredients and preparation techniques
The basic ingredients of medieval waffles were simple and easily available. Depending on the recipe, the following ingredients were used:
- Wheat flour
- Wine or water
- Eggs (optional)
- Salt
- Cheese (in some versions)
Over time, the Crusades contributed to the enrichment of the kitchen with new flavors. Around the 11th century, orange blossom water began to be used, although honey and other flavorings were also used locally.
The preparation process required the right tools. Initially, round molds called “moule à oublies” were used, which were larger than communion wafer molds. Biblical scenes or simple symbolic patterns often appeared on their surface.
In the 15th century, a clear difference emerged between communion wafers and waffles. The new forms were rectangular in shape, called “fer à hosties”, and some of the round ones were cut into rectangles. The characteristic check pattern also originated at this time, which can be found on both the French “fer à oublie” and the Belgian “wafelijzer”, although the engraving was shallow in the early days.
Interesting fact: Waffle molds from the 15th century were often decorated with family crests, signs or animal images. This may indicate their role as wedding gifts.
Evolution of recipes
Around 1500-1560, the Dutch manuscript “KANTL 15” appeared, containing the recipe “Om ghode waffellen te backen”. This was the second known waffle recipe after four variants from “Le Ménagier de Paris”. For the first time, partial ingredient proportions were given and spices were added: “Take grated white bread, egg yolk, a tablespoon of granulated sugar, half water, half wine, as well as ginger and cinnamon.”
The recipe for “Groote Wafelen” from the Belgian cookbook “Een Antwerps kookboek”, attributed to the 16th or 17th century, was a breakthrough for the history of waffles. For the first time, a leavening agent was used – brewer’s yeast: “Take white flour, warm cream, freshly melted butter, yeast and mix until the flour disappears. Then add ten or twelve egg yolks. If you want a cheaper version, you can also add egg whites and milk. Leave the dough by the fireplace for four hours to rise before baking.”
Until then, leavening agents were not used in recipes, which is why the dough was baked in thin “moule à oublies” molds. The “Groote Wafelen” recipe, thanks to the use of yeast, opened a new chapter in the history of waffles and introduced the use of deep molds, which can be seen in the paintings of Beuckelaer and Bruegel.
Waffles in paintings by 16th-century masters
In the 16th century, paintings by Joachim de Beuckelaer, Pieter Aertsen and Pieter Bruegel accurately depict the modern form of waffles.
In Bruegel’s paintings, you can see scenes of waffles being baked and their details. The grid pattern can be recognized as a 12×7 grid with square sides, which suggests the use of thin dough, reminiscent of today’s Brussels waffles.
Waffles as part of religious celebrations
The connection between waffles and religion goes back to the early Middle Ages. The first waffles were closely related to the wafers used during mass. As early as the 9th century, special iron molds (fer à hosties) were used in Europe to bake the Eucharistic wafers. The molds consisted of two metal plates with long handles, often decorated with a cross, an image of Jesus or a scene of the Crucifixion. Dough made of flour and water was poured between the plates and the wafers were baked over a fire.
Over time, tools were developed for baking wafers for consumption. The waffle molds (moule à oublies) were larger than those for wafers and were often decorated with intricate patterns. The ornaments were more decorative than the motifs used on the wafers.
Fun fact: In Sweden, Waffle Day is celebrated on March 25th, which is related to the Christian holiday of the Annunciation. The Swedish name “Vårfrudagen” has been distorted over time in speech to become “Vaffeldagen”, or “Waffle Day”. This holiday combines a religious and culinary tradition.
Religious symbolism in decorations
Medieval waffle baking tins often had engraved religious symbols, which gave the baked goods a spiritual dimension. Each pattern had a specific meaning, reminding us of the religious significance of the meal.
Crosses, biblical scenes and other motifs were placed on the molds to remind people of the divine origin of food. Waffles with such decorations were served at the end of a meal and served as a prayerful accent, not just dessert.
Over time, when the Church allowed the production of “oublies”, a variety of designs began to appear. In addition to religious symbols, there were family crests, landscapes and decorative motifs.
The taste of waffles changed due to the spices brought by the Crusaders from the East. Among the most commonly used additives were honey and orange blossom water, which enriched the dough with new flavors.
Waffles at festivals and fairs
In the Middle Ages, waffles became part of religious festivals and fairs. They were sold during celebrations, often in the shape of biblical scenes or coats of arms.
They were a popular delicacy on the streets, often with honey or dried fruit. Waffles were sold at fairs near churches, where crowds of the faithful gathered.
Until the 13th century, waffles were enjoyed by people from all walks of life. They were served to peasants and kings alike. They were associated with religious holidays and saints’ days.
In some regions, waffles were distributed to the poor and the sick on Maundy Thursday. It was a gesture of charity and an expression of compassion towards those in need.
Over time, waffles also found their way into secular banquets. According to HistoricFood.com, from the late Middle Ages to the early Renaissance, they were served during the closing ceremony of a court banquet, called “issue de table”.
At that time, waffles could have a quasi-Eucharistic meaning, referring to Holy Communion. Sometimes they were served with spicy jams to aid digestion after a heavy meal. Although originally a simple baked good, over the years it became a luxurious dessert available to the wealthy.
In Germany, monks used the round wafers as a base for their gingerbread. The wafers of old were different from the waffles served at the Tudor and Stuart courts. The court waffles were enriched with egg yolks, sugar and spices, giving them a richer flavor.
Waffles as a status symbol
In medieval Europe, food was an important indicator of social status, and waffles were one of its visible symbols. The society of that time was characterized by a strong hierarchy, with a clear division into classes. The nobility and clergy occupied the highest rungs of the ladder, while the peasants and craftsmen were at the very bottom. The differences between the groups were not only visible in their privileges, but also in their access to food and the way it was prepared.
Although waffles were known to all social classes, their quality, composition and method of serving depended on status. In aristocratic circles, they were a delicacy, while for the poorer classes, they were simple food. These differences became so significant that in the late Middle Ages, regulations were introduced to limit the excessively lavish feasts organized by wealthy townspeople trying to imitate the customs of the nobility.
Fun fact: King Francis I of France (1494-1547) loved waffles so much that he ordered a special set of waffle irons made of silver, a rare luxury even for a ruler.
Royal and noble waffles
In noble and royal circles, waffles were part of lavish feasts. They were prepared with the most expensive ingredients, unavailable to ordinary people. In wealthy households, there were separate rooms called “waferies” where designated employees baked them.
Aristocratic waffles were characterized by their sophisticated composition. They used
- White, finely ground wheat flour of the highest quality
- Fresh eggs from their own farms
- Cream or milk from selected cows
- Exotic spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, orange blossom water
- Sugar, which was a luxury at the time
They were served during the “issue de table” – a ceremony crowning the feast. They were served with jam, honey or wine. They were also sometimes decorated with gold leaf to emphasize their prestige.
The waffle irons belonging to the aristocracy were small works of art. Carved and richly decorated with family crests or hunting scenes, they were passed down from generation to generation as family heirlooms.
Waffles for the lower classes
Unlike the rich versions, the waffles eaten by peasants and townspeople were modest in character. They were baked with local, cheaper ingredients, often of poorer quality.
The basic ingredients of waffles for the lower classes included:
- Barley or oat flour, less often wheat flour
- Water instead of milk
- Small amounts of fat, if used at all
- Locally available ingredients such as honey, if available
Waffles for the poorer classes were prepared for holidays and religious events. They were often bought at fairs or festivals. The waffle irons used were simple, made of iron, without decorative details.
Despite the clear differences, waffles were a delicacy known to all social classes. They were part of a common culinary tradition, although the way they were prepared and eaten depended on social status.
Bourgeois imitation
In the late Middle Ages and the beginning of the Renaissance, the increasing wealth of merchants and craftsmen led to an interesting phenomenon. The bourgeoisie began to copy the customs of the aristocracy, including the preparation and serving of waffles.
The authorities reacted to the imitation of the customs of the nobility. In many European cities, laws were introduced to limit the splendour of feasts organized by the bourgeoisie. These laws were intended to preserve a clear division between the classes.
Despite the bans, the wealthy bourgeoisie did not give up on adopting aristocratic standards. Waffles in their homes became increasingly sophisticated. Expensive spices and better ingredients were added. Decorative baking tins also appeared, although they rarely matched the craftsmanship of the nobility.
In the 16th century, King Charles IX of France issued regulations governing the sale of waffles after a series of disputes and fights between traders. Sellers were ordered to keep a distance of at least four yards between themselves. These regulations show how popular waffles had become among people from different walks of life.
Over time, as the prices of sugar and spices fell in the 17th and 18th centuries, the differences in the quality of waffles slowly blurred. The delicacy became accessible to more people, although it still remained a symbol of elegance and good taste.
The American fascination with waffles after the 1964 World’s Fair
The World Exhibition in New York in 1964 was a turning point for waffles in America. The event sparked a real culinary revolution, introducing Belgian waffles to the American consciousness. Before the exhibition, New York’s gastronomic offer was limited. Pizza, corned beef sandwiches and sophisticated French cuisine were the most common dishes. Belgian waffles, which were introduced at the exhibition, opened up a whole new taste experience for Americans.
Maurice Vermersch, a Belgian confectioner, together with his wife Rose and daughter Marie-Paule, presented traditional Brussels waffles at the exhibition. Originally, they were called “Brussels waffles”, but the name was quickly changed to “Belgian waffles” because many Americans did not know Brussels. The waffles were served with whipped cream and strawberries, which became the classic American way of serving them.
The phenomenon of the popularity of Belgian waffles
The success of Belgian waffles at the World’s Fair was immediate. Long queues formed at the stand from day one. The Vermersch family sold up to 2,500 waffles a day, which shows the scale of interest. The price of one serving was 99 cents, making them an affordable delicacy for visitors.
Their unusual lightness and fluffiness, different from the thin, hard waffles known in the USA, played a huge role. MariePaule Vermersch recalled that people were surprised by the delicacy of the dough, which they described as “almost like air”, allowing you to eat several pieces without feeling full.
The second element was the intense aroma that rose from the cast-iron tins, heated to 500 degrees. The smell attracted crowds and created a unique atmosphere. MariePaule revealed that the secret was fresh ingredients such as natural vanilla, yeast or self-raising flour, melted butter and eggs at room temperature, with egg white foam added at the end.
Fun fact: Belgian waffles became so popular that they were even sold at non-Belgian stands. They were next to falafel in Lebanese restaurants and spring rolls in the Hong Kong pavilion. As World’s Fair expert Bill Cotter noted: “It was a tsunami, everyone had to have a waffle stand by 1965.”
Cultural impact on American gastronomy
After the exhibition ended, Belgian waffles quickly gained popularity across the United States. Cafes, restaurants and breakfast bars began to include them on their menus, adapting the recipes to local tastes.
Belgian waffles have become an important part of breakfast culture. Their popularity has contributed to the growth of the home waffle iron market.
Although they gained real notoriety during an exhibition in New York in 1964, they had already appeared two years earlier at the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair. There, local salesman Walter Cleyman sold an impressive 500,000 waffles. However, it was not until the New York edition that they gained nationwide fame.
The impact of Belgian waffles on American cuisine was enormous. Before 1964, the breakfast offering in the USA was rather monotonous. The introduction of waffles opened the door to other international dishes that enriched the American menu.
Waffles gained recognition for their versatility, as they can be served both sweet and savory. Various variations were created to suit American tastes:
- Waffles with chicken (chicken and waffles) – a combination of sweet waffles with spicy chicken
- Waffles with fruit and maple syrup – a classic American version
- Waffles as a base for ice cream desserts – a reference to Belgian traditions
World Expo Legacy
The World Expo in New York, although a financial failure, had a great impact on culture that can still be seen today. In addition to Belgian waffles, it introduced dishes such as falafel, kimchi, hummus, tandoori chicken and sangria to American cuisine. These once exotic dishes have become an everyday part of American gastronomy.
For many participants of the exhibition, Belgian waffles remain the strongest memory. When asked about the most important experience, they almost unanimously pointed to them. Such a phenomenon shows how one event can permanently influence the culinary habits of an entire nation.
The history of Belgian waffles is an example of successful cultural exchange. A simple European dessert has become an integral part of life in the USA. It shows how food can transcend borders and bring people together.
Today, Belgian waffles are so ingrained in American cuisine that many young people are unaware of their European origins. They have become not only part of everyday breakfasts, but also a traditional dish for special occasions, served in thousands of restaurants and prepared at home.
Belgian waffle traditions
Belgium is considered the home of one of the most famous waffles, which has become a culinary symbol of this European country. Belgian waffles are not only a popular baked good, but also an element of national identity, showing the culinary heritage and the ability to create sophisticated flavors from simple ingredients.
Unlike in other countries, where waffles are eaten for breakfast or as a dessert, in Belgium they are mainly enjoyed as a street food snack. They are often eaten on the run, during lunch breaks or while going about one’s daily business.
The origins of Belgian waffles date back to the Middle Ages, when they were baked over an open fire in metal molds. Over time, the recipes have changed, enriched with new ingredients and techniques. Belgian waffles are distinguished by their thicker consistency, deep square indentations and characteristic flavor, which means they are often eaten without any toppings or with just a little.
Two main varieties of Belgian waffles
Belgian waffle traditions are centered around two types of waffles that have gained worldwide fame: Brussels waffles and Liège waffles. Each has a distinct character, history and method of preparation.
Brussels waffles, known for their lightness and fluffiness, have a rectangular shape and deep indentations. They are baked from yeast dough, which forms a crispy crust and a soft interior during baking. The recipe was invented by Maximilian Consael from Ghent, who started selling them at fairs in 1856, traveling with a cast-iron waffle iron. Despite the name, the delicacy does not come from Brussels.
Liège waffles are characterized by their irregular shape and compact structure. The secret of their flavor lies in the pearl sugar, which caramelizes during baking, creating sweet pockets. According to legend, the recipe was created in the 18th century when the prince-bishop of Liège commissioned a cook to prepare a baked good with sugar crystals. The result was a brioche-like pastry, which is considered to be the prototype of today’s Liège waffles.
Fun fact: In Belgium, waffles are not served with maple syrup, which may come as a surprise to Americans. Belgians believe that a real waffle should be tasty enough to be eaten without any toppings or with just a little bit of powdered sugar.
Contemporary cultural significance
Belgian waffles are not just a dessert, but a symbol of national identity. They are part of the national pride and culinary heritage, showing the ability to create unique flavors from simple ingredients.
In Belgium, waffles play an important role during festivals and various celebrations, emphasizing their social significance. They are present at street stalls as well as in exclusive cafes, which confirms their versatility.
Nowadays, gluten-free, vegan and low-sugar waffle variations have been introduced to meet new demands. They retain the traditional taste while adapting to changing needs.
The influence of Belgian waffles on world cuisine is clear. They have inspired variations such as
- chicken and waffles in the United States
- Asian bubble waffles
Despite the various interpretations, the original Belgian recipes are still valued for their authenticity and unique taste.
Thanks to their rich history and cultural significance, Belgian waffles are among the most recognized desserts in the world. Their success shows how a simple dish, carefully prepared, can gain worldwide recognition, transcending cultural boundaries and bringing people together through shared taste experiences.
Modern waffle variations from classic to bubble waffles
The modern world of waffles is a combination of tradition and modern culinary ideas. In addition to classic recipes, new interpretations are emerging and gaining popularity on different continents. The evolution of waffles did not stop at the Belgian classics, and now you can find many varieties of them, differing in shape, structure and taste. Modern waffles respond to changing tastes and needs, offering both traditional compositions and bold combinations.
The development of kitchen technology has enabled the creation of advanced waffle irons, allowing for the baking of waffles in unusual shapes. Thanks to this, waffles have become not only a popular breakfast dish, but also a space for culinary creativity. Modern chefs experiment with new ingredients, preparation methods and serving styles to create baked goods that are as delightful to look at as they are to taste.
Classic varieties with a modern twist
Traditional Belgian waffles remain the basis for new variations. Brussels waffles, known for their lightness and fluffiness, have a rectangular shape and deep indentations. They are baked from yeast dough, which forms a crispy crust and soft interior during baking. Served warm, they are usually sprinkled with powdered sugar.
American waffles are a thinner, more compact version with fewer indentations and a denser texture, reminiscent of pancakes. Made from a baking powder-based dough, they have a slightly springy texture. They are usually served for breakfast with butter and maple syrup.
Scandinavian heart-shaped waffles are characterized by their delicate structure. They are thinner than Belgian waffles and often flavored with cardamom, vanilla or citrus peel. Popular in Sweden and Norway, they are usually prepared for special occasions and served with jam or whipped cream.
Fun fact: The first electric waffle irons appeared in the 1930s, but the real breakthrough came in 1953 when Frank Dorsa created a machine for mass production of waffles, which contributed to the popularization of frozen versions as a quick breakfast.
Bubble waffles – the Asian revolution
Bubble waffles, also known as Hong Kong waffles or egg waffles, are a modern variation that has become popular all over the world. Instead of the classic grid pattern, they have characteristic round pockets. The dough is baked in a special mold to create a crispy surface and a soft, elastic interior.
The origins of bubble waffles date back to the 1950s in Hong Kong, where they were created as a way to use up leftover eggs and flour. Over time, they became a popular street delicacy that found its way to many countries.
The recipe differs from European versions and contains:
- self-raising flour
- sugar
- corn flour
- custard powder
- eggs
- condensed milk
- vegetable oil
- vanilla extract
The structure of the airy bubble waffles makes them exceptionally light. The crispy surface and soft center make them ideal for rolling up into cones filled with ice cream, fruit or toppings.
Baked just before serving, they must be formed while still hot and flexible. The quick hardening of the dough makes them unsuitable for preparing in advance, but it is precisely this freshness that makes them so appealing.
Culinary experiments and the future of waffles
Modern gastronomy is constantly looking for new flavors and forms. Waffles have become an excellent field for such experiments. Chefs create innovative versions, combining classic techniques with modern additions.
Savory waffles are gaining popularity as an interesting alternative to sweet ones. They are served with:
- American-style with fried chicken
- for breakfast with eggs and bacon
- as a light meal with cheese and cold cuts
- as a healthy snack with vegetables and dips
Gluten-free and vegan waffles meet the needs of people with food intolerances or preferences. Rice and almond flour as well as egg and dairy substitutes are used to make them. Thanks to modern techniques, these versions can match the taste and texture of classic baked goods.
The future of waffles is developing dynamically. Personalization is becoming an important trend, with devices that allow you to create baked goods in different shapes. Fusion cuisine introduces elements from other cultures to waffles, creating interesting hybrids, such as versions with matcha, black sesame or exotic spices.
Waffles have made their way into pop culture, appearing in movies, TV series and memes. Associated with pleasure and creativity, they have become an important element of contemporary culinary culture. Regardless of your preference – classic Belgian or modern Asian – waffles never cease to amaze, maintaining their position as one of the world’s favorite delicacies.
Ready-made batter for delicious, crispy waffles from Gofrex
The modern pace of life and growing culinary expectations have made ready-made waffle mixes a practical solution for catering and home use. The market offers high-quality products that significantly simplify the process of baking this popular delicacy. Ready-made waffle batter is the result of many years of work by food technologists who have developed recipes that ensure excellent texture and taste.
The professional mixes contain carefully selected ingredients in the right proportions, such as flour, sugar, baking powder and flavorings. All you have to do is add water or other liquids according to the instructions, which eliminates the need to measure out the ingredients and reduces the risk of errors. Even inexperienced people can make perfectly crispy and delicate waffles.
Variety of available mixes
Today’s market offers a wide range of ready-made waffle mixes to suit different needs and taste preferences. Each of them has been developed to ensure a specific end result, allowing you to choose the product that suits you best.
Mixes for Belgian biscuit waffles are characterized by a light, fluffy structure and subtle flavor. They are characterized by a thicker form and deep grids that perfectly hold toppings such as fruit, syrups or whipped cream. Their recipe, based on carefully selected ingredients, allows for a smooth, uniform batter after adding water, oil and possibly eggs.
Mixtures for bubble waffles, inspired by Hong Kong cuisine, allow you to bake unique waffles with a structure composed of small balls. When mixed with water and oil, they form a batter that becomes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside when baked. The baking process takes about 3-4 minutes at 180-200°C, making it a quick dessert to prepare.
There are also mixes with different flavor profiles to suit different needs:
- sweet, with vanilla, chocolate or caramel flavor
- savory, with herbs and spices
- gluten-free for people with gluten intolerance
- vegan, free from animal ingredients
The professional mixes are available in large containers, e.g. 5 kg or 50 kg, which is ideal for the catering trade. The long shelf life and the fact that the prepared batter can be kept in the refrigerator for 24 hours ensure convenience and reduce raw material waste.
Advantages of using ready-made mixes
Ready-made waffle mixes offer many advantages that are appreciated by professionals and home bakers alike.
First of all, they significantly simplify the process of preparing dough, eliminating the time-consuming measuring and mixing of ingredients. They also ensure the consistency of baked goods, which is crucial in gastronomy, where customers’ expectations of quality are high. Each waffle has an identical structure and taste, which helps maintain a consistent level of satisfaction.
The long shelf life enables effective inventory planning and reduces waste. Large packages ensure a favorable unit price, and the stability of the mixture composition simplifies raw material management.
Ready-made mixes also eliminate the problem of incorrect ingredient proportions, which often happens when preparing dough on your own. Even people with no culinary experience can achieve a professional result.
The versatility of ready-mixes means that they can be used not only for classic breakfast waffles, but also for preparing:
- desserts with fruit, ice cream and whipped cream
- savory snacks with cheese, cold cuts or vegetables
- warm or cold waffles, depending on the occasion
Professional mixes also ensure that baked goods have the perfect texture: crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This is difficult to achieve when baking at home, especially without experience.
Gluten-free and vegan mixes make it possible for people with special dietary needs to enjoy waffles. They meet the growing demand for alternative food options that do not require compromises in terms of taste.
Ready-made mixes are a time-saving solution that ensures consistent baking results, while also offering the possibility of serving a variety of waffle variations depending on the occasion and preference.
Summary
The history of waffles is an extraordinary journey through the centuries, showing the transformation of a simple baked good into a global culinary phenomenon. From their medieval roots, when waffles were baked between cast iron molds, through their religious significance and role as a status symbol, to modern variations, waffles continue to delight gourmets around the world. The turning point for their international popularity was the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, when Belgian waffles conquered America and sparked a culinary revolution.
Belgian waffle traditions, with the two most important varieties being Brussels and Liège, form the basis of the modern waffle culture. At the same time, modern waffle creations, such as bubble waffles from Hong Kong, prove that the dessert is constantly evolving to meet changing tastes and culinary habits.
Today, waffles come in a huge number of varieties – from classic to innovative, sweet to savory, traditional to gluten-free or vegan. The availability of high-quality ready-mixes, such as those offered by Gofrex, has made baking waffles easier than ever. This allows both professional chefs and amateurs to enjoy this unique baked good with a long history and almost endless culinary possibilities.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waffle
- https://www.chronicle.co.zw/the-delicious-history-of-waffles-from-ancient-greece-to-modern-breakfasts/
- https://www.chicagowaffles.com/the-history-of-waffles-from-belgium-to-chicago/
- https://www.chicagowaffles.com/the-amazing-history-of-waffles/
- https://www.vbt.com/blog/sweet-story-belgian-waffle/
- https://www.belganewsagency.eu/sweetest-country-on-earth-belgium-and-its-waffles
- https://www.historylink.org/File/10092
- https://www.tastingtable.com/1249994/964-worlds-fair-belgian-waffle/
- https://tasteofbelgium.com/the-history-of-belgian-waffles-liege-to-world/
