Wafers are a light, crispy treat that can be enjoyed on their own or filled with a variety of delicious fillings like chocolate, cream, or fruit spreads. This recipe makes a simple, crispy wafer that’s perfect for snacking, serving with tea, or incorporating into layered desserts like ice cream cakes or parfaits.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Preparation
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
Yield: About 20-30 wafers
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Maker:
• Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have a waffle maker, you can bake the wafers in the oven using a baking sheet, but a waffle maker gives them the perfect crispy texture. - Prepare the Dough:
• In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth and well combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until you have a smooth dough. - Cook the Wafers:
• Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about the size of a marble or small walnut.
• Place the dough ball in the preheated waffle maker and gently press down to flatten it into a thin wafer. Close the waffle maker and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the wafer is golden brown and crisp.
• If using an oven, place small dollops of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 7-10 minutes or until golden and crisp. - Cool the Wafers:
• Remove the wafers from the waffle maker or baking sheet and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. They will crisp up as they cool. - Optional Dusting:
• Once the wafers are cooled, you can lightly dust them with powdered sugar for a simple finishing touch. - Serve and Enjoy:
• Enjoy your wafers as a snack, use them to make dessert layers, or serve them with coffee or tea. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Tips for Success
- Waffle Maker vs. Oven: If you don’t have a waffle maker, you can bake the wafers in the oven. The key is to roll the dough as thin as possible to achieve that crispy texture.
- Thinness is Key: For the crispiest wafers, ensure the dough is rolled out thinly before cooking. The thinner the dough, the crispier the wafers will be.
- Flavor Variations: Add a bit of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or lemon zest to the dough for a flavor variation. You can also experiment with extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, for an interesting twist.
- Fillings: If you want to turn these wafers into sandwich cookies, spread some chocolate ganache, whipped cream, or Nutella between two wafers. You can also fill them with ice cream for a cool treat.
Fun Twists
- Chocolate-Dipped Wafers: After cooling the wafers, dip one end into melted dark or white chocolate and allow them to set for a few minutes. This will add a rich and indulgent touch to your wafers.
- Cinnamon Wafers: Sprinkle a little cinnamon or cocoa powder onto the dough before cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Fruit-Filled Wafers: Sandwich wafers with fruit spreads like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam for a sweet fruity version.
- Waffle Cone Inspired: For a dessert twist, shape the wafers into small cones and fill them with whipped cream or ice cream.
Final Touch
These crispy wafers are simple yet versatile, offering the perfect base for a variety of treats. Whether you enjoy them on their own, filled with your favorite spread, or as part of an elaborate dessert, these wafers will add a light, crunchy touch to any occasion. Happy baking!
Enjoy your homemade wafers!