Waffles

Fact: Waffles are the greatest invention since sliced bread. But if you’ve ever wondered how to get your homemade waffle recipe to look better, we’ve got you covered.

If you can't find full-fat buttermilk at the market, you're better off substituting a mix of milk and sour cream instead (see amounts below). Collect your sourdough discard in a bowl in the fridge, adding to it until you have enough for the recipe. The sourdough discard can keep for up to 5 days before using. You can also make pancakes with this batter—see Note below for details.

At this point, we've all seen our fair share of pancake art, but not all of us are meant to make masterpieces on the griddle. Buf if breakfast is becoming boring or you've just found that plain old grid pattern on your waffles to be lacking in personality, there's another way to have our favorite characters sitting on our breakfast plate covered in butter and maple syrup. These pop culture-inspired waffle makers turn icons from movies, music, TV shows and newspaper comics into delicious, crispy works of art. All you have to do is put in the waffle batter and wait. — Clara Olshanksy

Jen Pelka of The Riddler in San Francisco makes supercrunchy and delicious waffles using Tater Tots, then tops them with poached eggs and truffles, making them ideal for brunch. Slideshow: More Waffle Recipes 

Jen Pelka of The Riddler in San Francisco makes supercrunchy and delicious waffles using Tater Tots. One of her more hearty ways of serving the waffles is topped with prosciutto and mixed greens, along with a quick mix of créme fraîche and mustard. Slideshow: More Waffle Recipes

Jen Pelka of The Riddler in San Francisco makes supercrunchy and delicious waffles using Tater Tots. Here she tops the waffles with caviar and smoked salmon, creating a delicious and decadent dish that’s ideal with Champagne. Slideshow: More Waffle Recipes