Snowy Belgian Waffles

Dear Me,

It is blizzarding in Boston today! I knew it was coming, but we haven't had a proper storm yet, and yes, I must admit I'm a New England girl who was hoping for at least one of these this winter! As soon as we woke up, my husband and I ran to the windows to see how the storm was developing. We saw the most beautiful winter wonderland. Hooray for New England! After reveling in the storm for a few minutes, our thoughts turned to breakfast. My husband's favorite weekend breakfast is Belgian waffles. Belgian waffles on a snowy morning... Perfect! Usually I make the batter for waffles with yeast and let it rise overnight. No time for that this morning, so here is my recipe for quick and easy Belgian waffles--no advance notice needed. Stomachs happy, my husband and I now have the rest of the day to enjoy the blizzard.

Happy Winter and Happy Cooking!

Yours,
Cecily

Snowy Belgian Waffles

2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
2 cups skim milk
3 egg yolks
4 egg whites (you use a total of 3 1/2 eggs)
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon

1) Preheat waffle iron.
2) In a large bowl, mix all ingredients except the egg whites into a batter.
3) In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they stand in medium-stiff peaks.
4) Fold the egg whites into the batter, but be very careful not to overmix (otherwise you will have leaden waffles!)
5) Spray the hot waffle iron with oil or Pam.
6) Pour just enough batter onto the iron to coat it fully.
7) Close the cover of the iron and keep it closed until it beeps to tell you it is done.
8) Now sprinkle some dried cranberries, butter (if desired), and maple syrup. Enjoy!