Tuesday, July 19, 2016

The Best Waffles Ever

Last summer I caught a segment on Food Network that captured my attention. It was about a company in eastern Pennsylvania that makes Belgian Liege style waffles and they ship them all over the country. I was so intrigued that I went on their website and ordered a box of waffles before the segment was over. Two weeks later, my waffles arrived and I fell in love. 

Waffatopia is the object of my waffle affection. Brian and Andrea Polizzi discovered this style of waffle on a trip to Brussels and decided to replicate it in their home. Their waffles were an instant hit with friends and family, inspiring them to chuck their corporate lives and see how far they could follow their dream. Their production facility is based in Conshohocken, PA and they ship their handmade goodness near and far. 

What makes these waffles so special? Its a unique recipe that Brian and Andrea have perfected and their combination of flavors are spot on. The waffles we are used to eating in America are made with a poured batter and we drown them in syrup. Waffatopia waffles are made with a yeast dough, which creates a chewy, bread-like texture. Their secret weapon is pearl sugar that they import from Belgium. The sugar stays in tact and caramelizes as the dough cooks, giving the waffles a sweet crunch with every bite. You can order flavors like maple bacon, vanilla cinnamon and banana and Nutella, which are all delicious. They also have special seasonal flavors, like strawberry banana, birthday cake and lemon blueberry. They use the best ingredients they can find which results in a superior product. This waffle is street food at its finest, meant to be eaten without syrup. 

The other thing that Brian and Andrea have done right is their branding. Their logo is vibrant and charming and they designed fabulous packaging with wonderful slogans like "Sharing is optional" and "Syrup? We don't need no stinkin' syrup".  When that orange box arrives in the mail, I get a huge grin just from looking at the packaging. Each box of waffles arrives with a small supply of wax paper sleeves that you can use to carry your warm waffle with you. I am hoping they start making t-shirts and baseball caps so I can proudly show off my Waffatopia love.  

I have shipped these waffles to people in three states and all the recipients were thrilled. My sister-in-law in Texas declared them the "best holiday gift ever".  My cousin in Virginia was equally impressed.  I had a box of waffles in the fridge when my brother and his wife came to visit this summer.  They devoured them and took the packaging home so they can order their own. I am a shameless Waffatopian and once you try these waffles, you will be too.  

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