Chocolate Belgian Waffles

Instructions

1. Prepare the dry ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined and no cocoa lumps remain.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
3. Combine the batter
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and pearl sugar if using. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
4. Preheat the waffle iron
   While the batter is resting, preheat your Belgian waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. Lightly coat with cooking spray or brush with melted butter to prevent sticking.
5. Cook the waffles
   Pour approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron (amount will vary depending on your waffle iron size). Close the lid and cook until the steam stops and the waffle is crisp on the outside, typically 4-5 minutes.
6. Keep waffles warm
   Transfer cooked waffles to a wire rack placed on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to keep warm while cooking the remaining batter. Do not stack the waffles or they will lose their crispness.
7. Serve and garnish
   Serve the waffles warm with your choice of toppings such as whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or maple syrup. For an authentic Belgian touch, dust with powdered sugar.