Belgian-Style Quick-Rise Waffles

1. Prepare Oven Rack

Adjust your oven rack to the middle position and preheat your oven to 200 degrees. Set a wire rack in a rimmed baking sheet and place it in the oven to keep your waffles warm later.

2. Warm Milk

Pour the whole milk into a microwave-safe container. Microwave the milk for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping to stir halfway through, until it reaches 110 degrees.

3. Activate Yeast

Once the milk is warm, whisk in the sugar and instant yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, table salt, and baking powder.

5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the melted butter, large eggs, vanilla extract, and the milk-yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Whisk until the batter is mostly smooth. Let this batter sit for 10 minutes.

6. Prepare Waffle Iron

While the batter is resting, heat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the iron is hot, gently whisk the batter to deflate it. Lightly coat the cooking surface of the waffle iron with vegetable oil spray.

7. Cook Waffles

Pour about ¾ cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron for a 7-inch round Belgian waffle. Cook the waffles for 3 to 6 minutes, until they are crisp, firm, and golden.

8. Serve Waffles

Serve the waffles immediately for the best texture. If you need to keep them warm, transfer them to the prepared wire rack in the oven.