Waffles tantalize the taste buds—they’re fluffy and sweet and perfectly hold maple syrup. This popular breakfast food has gone through several evolutions since its early origins. If you’ve ever wondered how this toasted pastry came to be, travel back in time to trace its many cultural influences.

The History of Waffles

Ancient Recipe

Anthropologists think the first waffle likely emerged during the Neolithic Age over 6,000 years ago. The early waffle iron consisted of heated stones that were hot enough to cook batter made from grain pulp. When iron tools were produced several thousand years later, ancient Greeks poured or spread the batter on iron plates to expedite cooking and ensure the waffle cooked evenly on both sides.

European Migration

During Medieval times, the Catholic Church cooks used a grain flour and water mixture to create a waffle that mimicked the communion wafer. Bakers quickly elevated the recipe by adding ginger, sugar, cinnamon, and other flavorings to the batter. Leavening agents were also included to make the dough fluffier. Dutch cooks started using rectangular plates with deep wells to produce the iconic waffle shape.

International & American Popularity

As waffles made their way across Europe, countries added their unique touches to the recipe. Lemon zest and cloves were used by the French, while Germans incorporated finely-ground coffee beans. Belgium is credited with coating the waffle with caramelized sugar to produce the country’s favorite: the liège. To this day, Belgian waffles are considered a culinary standard for this popular breakfast food.

By the mid-1740s, waffles made their way to America and were a heavily-requested snack by President Thomas Jefferson. Over time, word of mouth propelled waffle recipes across the country, and maple syrup become the preferred sweet topper.

If you’re craving this delicious breakfast food, head to Belgian Waffle & Pancake House in Branson, MO. This popular eatery offers fresh, homemade waffles that are made with premium eggs, milk, and butter to create a scrumptious taste and fluffy texture. You can also order your waffle with an assortment of toppings, including cinnamon sugar, fruit, and whipped cream. To get more information about their menu, visit the website or call (417) 334-8484.