Okay, who doesn’t like waffles? Basically, a waffle is the rich cousin of the pancake – a bit more complex, refined and certainly more complicated than the straightforward design of a flapjack. The waffle has grooves (which we like) that more ably captures and maintains toppings, and the unique contrast of crisp exterior and light fluffy interior are really what distinguishes the waffle from the pancake. But above all else, it’s way more fun to yell out, WHO WANTS WAFFLES?
This past Christmas, Santa Claus brought Mama Bear a new Cuisinart Classic Waffle Maker (model WMR-CA). Wise ol’ St Nick picked this particular model because it received great product reviews, is exceptionally compact and was on sale for $29.99 (USD).
The Classic Waffle Maker features a 5 setting browning control, ready indicator lights, a weighted lid, wrap around cord storage and non-stick / BPA-free grids. Ultimately, the beauty of this device is in its simplicity. Just plug it in, give the grids a quick spray with non-stick oil, wait for the orange light to turn green, and you’re ready for the batter.
Papa Bear, being a self-proclaimed master pancake-maker, searched out a decent waffle recipe on the Internet, then modified it. Having now tried it several times (always with the rally cry: Who wants waffles?!) we’re pleased to report that the Cuisinart Waffle Maker is fantastic. After taking just moments to warm up, using setting number 4, the nifty appliance makes a round, golden, crispy, 4-quadrant waffle in about 3 minutes.
Keeping with the time-honoured traditions of waffledom, they are best served with butter and good quality maple syrup and/or with fresh fruit and whip cream.
And if you really want to up your game, search out the difficult-to-locate Lurpak Danish butter – the absolute best butter in the world! [Note: if using Lurpak, that’s all you need. Don’t adulterate the delectable buttery taste with anything else!]
Most importantly, the Cuisinart Waffle Maker’s waffles passed ‘The Bear Test’ with flying colours. She absolutely loves them.
Now does this mean we’ve converted full-time to waffles from pancakes? Absolutely not. We’re Canadian, not effing Belgian (and Belgium is a weird little country), so the pancake will forever be our go-to breakfast treat. But waffles are fun – albeit a little more work – and we like to show off in the campground or with friends every now and again. Here’s the secret recipe…
Bearsgroove Waffles
1 cup all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup sugar
pinch of baking soda
1 egg separated
1 cup milk
¼ cup canola oil
Stir dry ingredients together. Mix in milk and egg yoke, then oil. Beat egg white until fluffy, then fold into batter. Pour roughly a half cup of waffle mixture into the center of the grid, then gently close the lid. Leave for 3 minutes on setting 4. Makes 6 delicious waffles. Keep (your syrup and butter) in the groove…
Bear's Groove 