All across America, people enjoy eating waffles for breakfast. Whether they top it with butter and syrup or whipped cream and fresh fruit, this food has become a morning favorite throughout the country. Most people think of waffles as frozen toaster treats or as plate-sized meals. But were they always that way?

To help answer this question, the experts from Belgian Waffle & Pancake House in Branson, MO, dive into the waffle’s history below.

A Look at the History of Waffles

Early Years

Historians have traced waffles as far back as Ancient Greece, when flat cakes were cooked between two metal plates. They weren’t sweet and they were customized with designs. Later, the Catholic Church developed a similar recipe of unleavened wafers to serve after meals as a symbolic blessing. It wasn’t until the Crusades that new versions were developed.

15^th Century

Gradually, spices, leavening agents, and creamier toppings were added to the waffle. They became thicker, doughier, and spiced with cinnamon and ginger. In the 1400s, the Dutch created rectangular metal plates with a grid pattern—the precursor to today’s waffle irons.

18^th Century

Waffles continued spreading across Europe as each country developed its own recipes. Germany’s coffee variety became popular, while French cooks used cloves, wine, and lemon zest. At the time, these delicious treats weren’t served for breakfast, but rather for snacks and dessert. Soon, they made their way to America.

19^th & 20^th Centuries

While many people loved to enjoy waffles, they didn’t explode in popularity until they were easier to make. In the 1800s, the first stovetop waffle iron was developed in New York, and 20 years later, the first boxed mix hit store shelves. In the 1950s, a food manufacturing company named Eggo® developed a machine that could churn out waffles by the thousands. In the 1960s, the famous Belgian recipe was developed—soon to be made in restaurants across the world.

Today, waffles are still a beloved breakfast food. From America’s frozen variety to Europe’s famous Belgian recipe, there’s simply no other food like it. If you’re searching for a perfect treat, look no further than Belgian Waffle & Pancake House. This restaurant’s chef uses a traditional recipe from Belgium to ensure you enjoy an authentic and delicious treat. For the best breakfast in the area, call these experts at (417) 334-8484 or check out their full menu online.