Waffles are a favorite meal for adults and children alike. While everyone knows what the standard version of a waffle looks and tastes like, many people don't know that waffles can come in many different international variations that differ in taste, appearance and texture.

You could consider that a waffle is a hybrid of a pancake and a cake. Like a pancake they are made from a batter which typically consists of flour, water, eggs and baking power. While this is the standard recipe it will vary depending on the type of waffle that is being made. They are cooked in a special appliance called a waffle maker that has two hot plates.

The recipe for this cake is very old. During the middle ages, vendors on the streets of Medieval cities sold 'wafers'. These were batter cakes that were put between two iron plates and cooked over a burning fire. Even today waffles are sold on the streets in some European countries.

American waffles are the most well known in the USA. The waffle was brought to the States by pilgrims from Holland in 1620. Today, they are a popular and sweet breakfast item which is usually covered in syrup or butter.

In Europe, a waffle from Belgium is very well known. Called a Belgian waffle, they are larger and thicker than the American styled waffle. In a tradition that still can be traced back to the Middle Ages, this waffle is sold on the streets in Europe.

Other countries also have their own types of waffles. The Hong Kong waffle is a grid cake which is sold on the streets in the former British colony. They are more round and of a larger size than the American version. Stroopwafels are found in the Netherlands and have been around since the 18th century. They are cut in half with the filling acting as a glue which binds the pieces together.

Making a waffle is easier than you think. You first need to find the right recipe and you can search for these on the internet or in a good cook book that you can buy from your local book store. One of the great things about this meal is that you can be creative by adding and changing things to see what works best.

Once you have found recipe the next thing you need is a waffle maker which cooks the batter. You will find many different types and brands for sale at your local department store or on the internet. You will want one that is from a trusted brand and that is of high quality. It is also a good idea to buy one that is easy to clean as the batter can often make a large mess.