Waffle Recipe

Preheat

Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions until fully hot. If it has temperature settings, set to medium-high for a golden exterior and tender interior.

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

In a separate medium bowl or jug, whisk the eggs lightly. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract and whisk until blended.

Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients in. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; a few small lumps are fine. Do not overmix to keep waffles tender.

Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while the waffle iron finishes preheating. Resting hydrates the flour and helps produce a better texture.

Lightly brush or spray the hot waffle iron with the cooking spray or melted butter. Pour or ladle the recommended amount of batter for your waffle iron (generally 1/2 to 3/4 cup for standard irons; use the amount that fills the grid without overflowing).

Close the lid and cook until the waffle is golden brown and crisp, usually 3–5 minutes depending on your iron. Avoid opening frequently; rely on the waffle iron's indicator if available.

Carefully remove the waffle and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to keep crisp while you cook additional waffles. Repeat brushing/spraying the iron and cooking with remaining batter.

While waffles cook, chill a medium mixing bowl and whisk or beaters in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to help the cream whip better (optional but recommended).

Pour the heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Whip by hand with a whisk or with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2–3 minutes. Stop when peaks hold shape but are still glossy; do not overbeat or it will become butter.

Taste and adjust sweetness by adding a little more maple syrup if desired. Transfer to a small bowl and keep chilled until ready to serve.

Prepare the fruit: hull and quarter strawberries; wash blueberries and raspberries; peel and slice the banana just before serving to prevent browning.

Place one waffle on each serving plate. Top with a generous dollop (2–3 tablespoons) of maple chantilly on each waffle.

Arrange a handful of mixed berries and banana slices over the chantilly. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of maple syrup over each waffle (adjust to taste).

If desired, dust lightly with powdered sugar for presentation and serve immediately while waffles are warm and crisp.