The history of belgian liege waffles

Liège waffles, one of the gems of Belgian pastry, have their roots in the 18th century. It is said that they were created by the chef of the Prince-Bishop of Liège's court, who was looking for a special dessert that combined sweetness and texture. Although the chef's exact name is not preserved, the story suggests that he was inspired by the region's sweet bread traditions.

The original recipe for Liège waffles is characterised by its dough rich in butter, eggs, and vanilla, with the addition of sugar pearls that caramelise during cooking. This detail sets Liège waffles apart from other types of waffles, such as Brussels waffles, which are lighter and crispier. The dense texture and caramelised flavour of Liège waffles have made them an icon of Belgian gastronomy.

The rise of Liège waffles began at the end of the 19th century, when street vendors began offering them at local fairs and markets. Their ease of consumption while hot and without the need for cutlery made them a popular snack. It is believed that the industrialisation of the recipe occurred around 1900, when local bakeries began producing them in larger quantities to meet growing demand.

In 1958, during the Brussels World Expo, Liège waffles gained international recognition. Foreign visitors were charmed by their unique flavour and began exporting the recipe to their home countries. This event marked the beginning of the global popularity of Belgian waffles, cementing them as an emblematic product of Belgium's culinary culture.

Today, Liège waffles are enjoyed all over the world, but their artisanal production in Belgium remains a highly valued tradition. The bakers and pastry chefs of Liège carefully preserve the original recipe, passed down from generation to generation. This respect for tradition ensures that each bite continues to offer the authentic experience of Liège waffles.

If you want to enjoy authentic Liège waffles, it is recommended to visit Belgium, where they are served hot and freshly made at local markets and fairs. Their irresistible aroma and unique flavour make them a must-try for lovers of traditional European pastry.