Best Waffles Yet!

Mr. S and I love weekend brunch and brunch in general.  A few weeks ago, we went to brunch with our Koumbaro at a Baltimore brunch institution, Miss Shirley's.  The restaurant puts a southern twist on all their dishes, and although sometimes a little pricy, it's delicious.  When we went recently, I ordered chicken and waffles and experienced one of the best waffles of my life!  It was super crispy on the outside, but still soft in the inside, and incredibly tasty.  Since then, and even way before (since Mr. S is a huge lover of waffles), we have been on the quest for the perfect waffle recipe.  I think we have found our best one yet!

**A small plug about the equipment....for one of our wedding showers, we were gifted a waring profession double waffle iron.  We would DEFINITELY recommend getting one if you like waffles as much as we do....allows you to make twice as many waffles in the same time....LIFE CHANGING!**

Crispy and Tender Waffles
(Makes 6 Belgian Waffles)

1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon McCormick Saigon cinnamon (optional)

1 teaspoon salt
2 cup buttermilk (we used fat-free)

2/3 cup canola oil
2 egg
3 teaspoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Butter and syrup, for serving

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; mix well. Add the milk, vegetable oil, egg, sugar and vanilla and mix well. Let the batter sit for 30 minutes. 

Preheat the waffle iron and set to your desired setting.  No need to put non-stick spray on the waffle iron (the oil in the batter will allow the waffle to easily release).  Follow the directions on your waffle iron to cook the waffles. 

Serve immediately with butter and syrup and your favorite toppings!   The waffle at the top of this entry is a combo of my favorites - maple syrup, whipped cream, bananas, walnuts, and McCormick roasted Saigon cinnamon.

*** Crispiness:  The waffles come off the waffle iron quite crispy, so if you like them crispy, serve directly off the iron.  If you'd rather them be soft, let them sit in a pile for a few minutes.  We like them crispy, so we eat the last ones of the waffle iron and toast the other ones on other mornings)***

 **** We may not have kids yet, but our waffles are ready :-)  ******