Everyone loves waffles. They are a favorite for both breakfast and desert. Most people are familiar with their famous grid like pattern which is caused by the raised surfaces of the waffle maker's hot plates. However, what many people don't know is that waffles come in all sorts of different types and flavors.

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.

This type of food is very old with the recipe dating back to the middle ages. Back then they were called 'wafers' and they were cakes that were cooked between an iron that was placed over a wood fire. They were sold on the streets of medieval cities.

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.

Outside of America, the Belgian waffle is probably the most famous. They are lighter and thicker than other types of waffles. Just like the vendors in the middle ages, this cake can be bought on the streets in some European countries.

Belgium and America are not the only countries which have their local version of these cakes. In Asia, Hong Kong waffles are a popular snack that is sold on the streets and eaten hot. These were brought to the country by the English occupiers and adapted by the locals. They look very much like a grid cake. Stroopwafels are a centuries old cake which is sold in the Netherlands. This version has two pieces that are stuck together by the sweet filling inside.

The recipes for these different waffles can be found on the internet or in cookbooks. They are relatively simple to make and are a great idea when entertaining guests or family members. They are even better for a way to keep the kids entertained in the kitchen.

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.