Making Fine Breakfast – Hazelnut Waffles

I have made this recipe many times over the years as it taste so good and definitely be one of my family’s favorite breakfast on table. You will find the finely ground hazelnuts that go into the batter really do add a nice nuttiness to the finished waffles. You can top them with maple syrup, but berries and whipped cream will give them a more festive feel. Must give it a try if you haven’t.

Ingredients:
Yields 6 1/2 cups batter, enough for about 12 standard waffles

(A)

  • 3 oz. (2/3 cup) hazelnuts, toasted and skinned
  • 9 oz. (2 cups) unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 2 3/4 oz. (2/3 cup) cake flour
  • 1 Tbs. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 3/4 tsp. table salt

(B)

  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 3/4 cups buttermilk 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar

(C)

  • Vegetable oil or nonstick cooking spray for the waffle iron.
  • Warm maple syrup and butter, for serving.

Method:

  1. Toast the hazelnuts and then finely grind them.
  2. Prepare a large bowl, mix the ingredients A (ground hazelnuts, all-purpose flour, cake flours, baking powder, baking soda, and table salt) and whisk until well combined.
  3. Get another bowl whisk the ingredients B until well combined.
  4. Pour and mix A & B together then lightly stir the wet ingredients into dry batter.
  5. Let the batter rest for at least 20 minutes (and up to 2 hours in the refrigerator). Cook the waffles according to your waffle iron manufacturer’s instructions.
  6. Spread the butter and syrup on the waffle and serve.

Waffle Success

• Take center stage
People like to watch waffles being made, so don’t be shy about cooking the waffles while you and your guests have cocktails or coffee. Keep the waffles warm until it’s time to eat by spreading them—don’t stack—directly on a rack in a 200°f oven.

• Be patient
Always let your waffle iron heat up until a few drops of water flicked on the surface sizzle. Don’t be tempted to rush batter onto an iron that’s not preheated, or you won’t get maximum browning and flavor.

• Stay loose
Grease the waffle iron between waffles by applying a light coating of nonstick cooking spray or brushing on a light coating of vegetable oil.

• Sneak a peek
If the “ready” light or alarm on your waffle maker corresponds to a level of doneness you like, great. If not, don’t be afraid to lift the lid after a couple minutes. You can always leave the waffle in longer if it’s too pale, or crisp it further in the oven.