Fluffy Waffles

The most popular waffle recipes all have one secret in common: cornmeal. While the flour makes them fluffy, the cornstarch ensures they stay incredibly crispy on the outside and don't get soggy.

Ingredients:

• Plain flour: 180 g
• Corn flour: 60 g (the secret to professional crispness)
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Baking soda: 0.5 tsp
• Salt: 0.5 tsp
• Whole milk: 350 ml
• Unsalted butter: 75 g (melted and slightly cooled)
• Egg: 1 large, free-range
• Icing sugar: 1 tbsp
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp

Cooking method:

Sift the dry mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the wheat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Beat the liquid mixture: In a separate jug, beat the egg and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

Mixing: Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Beat until smooth, but do not overmix. A few tiny lumps are okay—overmixing will result in “rubbery” waffles.

Rest: Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes. This is an important “foodie tip” for your blog; it allows the gluten to relax and ensures the fluffiest interior.

Bake to perfection: Preheat the waffle iron. Pour in the batter (don't overfill!) and bake until the waffle irons are a deep golden brown and steam has stopped coming out of the iron.

Professional tips for you:

The "rack" secret: Tell your readers to never place hot waffles directly on a plate. Place them on a cooling rack for a minute first. This will allow air to circulate so they stay crispy and don't get soggy.

British Style: For an elegant British look, serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of golden syrup and a handful of fresh British raspberries.

Freezable: These waffles are perfect for “party cooking.” They can be frozen and popped into the toaster straight from the freezer for a quick weekday breakfast.

Checklist for selection:

Non-stick coating: so you don't have to use too much oil.

Temperature control: for those who like either light golden or well-done waffles.

Audible signal: this is very convenient so you don't open the lid too early and break the waffle.