Strawberry Shortcake Waffles

Hello again! If the cinnamon rolls were for a rainy day, these waffles are for when the sun finally decides to peek through the Glasgow clouds. It’s light, it’s elegant, and it’s frankly a bit posh.

A true chef knows that a cheap pan is a false economy. For the strawberry compote, I recommend using a Le Creuset enamelled saucepan or a Stellar stainless steel pot. They provide the even heat needed to break down the fruit without burning the sugars. For the batter, a sturdy ProCook mixing bowl is my go-to.

Ingredients

For the Waffles:

• Plain Flour: 250g.
• Baking Powder: 2 tsp (for that essential lift).
• Buttermilk: 400ml (this is the secret to the "shortcake" tang).
• Melted Butter: 100g (unsalted, cooled slightly).
• Eggs: 2 large free-range eggs, separated.
• Vanilla Bean Paste: 1 tsp.
• For the Strawberry Topping:
• Fresh Strawberries: 400g, hulled and sliced.
• Caster Sugar: 2 tbsp.
• Elderflower Cordial: 1 tbsp (a very British secret ingredient).

To Finish:

Double Cream: Whisked to soft peaks (or Clotted Cream if you’re feeling truly wicked).

The Method

1. The Macerated Berries

In your Le Creuset or Stellar saucepan, toss the strawberries with sugar and elderflower cordial. Place over a very low heat for just 3–4 minutes. We don’t want jam; we want the berries to release their juices while staying plump. Set aside to cool.

2. The Batter Science
Whisk your dry ingredients in a large bowl. In a separate jug, mix the buttermilk, egg yolks, vanilla, and melted butter. The Pro Move: Whisk your egg whites in a clean bowl until they form stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the main batter. This makes the waffles "light as a feather."

3. The Bake
Heat your waffle iron. Ladle the batter in and cook until steam stops escaping and the waffle is a glorious mahogany gold.

4. The Assembly
Stack two waffles, spoon over a generous amount of the syrupy strawberries, and top with a massive dollop of cream. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.


Leftovers: These waffles freeze brilliantly. Just pop them in the toaster for a "30-second luxury" on a Tuesday morning.