Growing up, Sunday mornings were a cherished time in our household. The aroma of something sweet wafting through the air would gently pull us from our dreams, coaxing us into the kitchen where my mom would already be whisking together the batter for her famous waffles. I remember the excitement of watching the waffle iron steam as it cooked, the anticipation of that first, golden brown waffle topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. This recipe is a tribute to those sunny mornings filled with laughter and love, and it’s incredibly easy to recreate at home.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped (optional)

Instructions

Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is crucial as a hot iron ensures your waffles will be fluffy and crisp. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients creates the perfect base for fluffy waffles.

In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy, then add the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the seeds from a vanilla bean if you’re feeling indulgent. Whisk this mixture until smooth, allowing the rich flavors to meld together beautifully.

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will ensure your waffles remain tender and light.

Once the batter is ready, lightly grease the waffle iron with a bit of cooking spray or melted butter. Pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the hot iron, typically about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on the size of your waffle maker. Close the lid gently and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.

Carefully remove the waffles and keep them warm in a low oven while you finish the rest of the batch. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings—fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing twist.

This recipe yields about 4-6 waffles, perfect for sharing with family or saving some for a delightful weekday breakfast. Each bite will remind you of those cherished Sunday mornings, filled with warmth, joy, and the sweet taste of homemade waffles.