International Waffle Day
On March 25, you can treat yourself to the golden, crispy treats without any guilt every year as it is International Waffle Day.
Whether you want it drizzled with syrup, topped with fruits, whipped cream or savory toppings like fried chicken, waffles have capture hearts throughout the globe
This amazing meal option can be served as a breakfast, brunch, or dessert-anyway you want, any time you want.
International Waffle Day should not be confused with National Waffle Day observed on August 24.
Origin of International Waffle Day
International Waffle Day started in Sweden because of a mix-up between two words. In Swedish, "Våffeldagen" means Waffle Day, and "Vårfrudagen" means Our Lady Day, which marks the Virgin Mary’s conception. Since the two words sounded similar, people began celebrating Our Lady Day with waffles. Over time, this tradition grew, and Waffle Day became a fun holiday on March 25, now known and celebrated as International Waffle Day.
The History of Waffles
Waffles have a long and fascinating history that traces back to ancient Greece, where flat cakes called “obelios” were cooked between hot metal plates.
These cakes later spread across medieval Europe, evolving into wafers, which were made from a mixture of flour, water or milk, and often eggs.
They were cooked over open fires using iron plates with long handles. During the early Middle Ages, around the 9th and 10th centuries, specialized irons like fer à hosties (communion wafer irons) and moule à oublies (wafer irons) emerged.
Communion wafer irons typically depicted religious imagery, while wafer irons featured simpler, decorative designs.
The basic oublie, made from grain flour and water, later incorporated flavorings like honey and orange blossom water during the 11th century, thanks to the influence of the Crusades.
By 1200, oublies gained popularity, leading to the formation of the oublieurs guild in 1270, which was responsible for producing light pastries, including waffles.
The first known waffle recipe appeared in the late 14th century in Le Ménagier de Paris, detailing how to make batter with eggs, wine, flour, and salt, cooked between irons.
Over time, waffle irons became distinct from oublie irons, and by the 15th century, they featured deeper engravings and grid patterns.
The classic waffle design was depicted in 16th-century paintings by artists like Pieter Bruegel, showcasing waffles with squared patterns that suggested the use of thin batter.
Recipes evolved, incorporating sugar, spices, and later, leavening agents like beer yeast. By the mid-16th century, waffles became so popular in France that King Charles IX enacted legislation to regulate their sales.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, waffles continued to develop, with regional recipes introducing unique ingredients like Hefeweizen beer yeast, chocolate, and spices such as nutmeg and cardamom.
Decadent recipes, including those with whipped egg whites and large quantities of sugar, became more common as sugar prices declined due to expanded Caribbean plantations.
By this time, waffles had spread across Europe and the Americas, with Dutch settlers introducing them to New Amsterdam (modern-day New York City), where “wafel frolics” became popular social gatherings.
The modern Belgian Liège waffle, often attributed to an 18th-century chef serving the prince-bishop of Liège, officially appeared in recipes only by the 19th century.
Incorporating brioche dough and pearl sugar, its distinctiveness set it apart from other waffles. Waffles gained further prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries, transitioning from a European treat to a global phenomenon.
Today, they are enjoyed in various forms worldwide, showcasing their enduring appeal and rich culinary heritage.
Celebrate International Waffle Day
International Waffle Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of waffles.
You can try to make waffles at home from scratch. Dust off your waffle maker, try out different recipes, and experiment with unique flavors and toppings to create your waffle masterpiece.
For those who enjoy company, hosting a waffle party can be a fun idea.
Invite friends and family, and set up a topping bar with fruits, syrups, whipped cream, chocolate chips, and more, allowing everyone to customize their waffles just the way they like.
If you're feeling adventurous, explore cultural variations of waffles. Try Scandinavian heart-shaped waffles, savory potato waffles, or the fluffy Japanese souffle waffles to expand your palate.
Visiting a local waffle house or café is another way to enjoy the day.
Many establishments offer special deals or limited-edition waffle creations to mark the celebration.
Lastly, consider giving back by organizing a waffle fundraiser.
Use the universal love for waffles to support a cause close to your heart while spreading happiness and a sense of community.
A Simple Waffle Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (0.47 l) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/3 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to its instructions.
- Mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Lightly grease the waffle iron and pour enough batter to cover the grid. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually 4–5 minutes or until golden brown.
- Continue with the remaining batter after removing the waffle.
Optional Toppings
Serve your waffles with syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat. For savory waffles, consider topping them with fried chicken, bacon, or a poached egg.
Read National Waffle Day next.
