Trader Joe’s new Brioche Style Liège Waffles prove that this chain does not quit! These sweet treats debuted in TJ’s stores across the country just days ago, and have already won over thousands of discerning shoppers. As longtime TJ’s customers know, one of the chain’s fundamental goals is to deliver delicious products at affordable prices, and it’s a goal that has been met over and over again, including with this latest item. Here’s what you need to know about Liège waffles, including exactly what they are and how to enjoy them whenever you’re in the mood for an internationally inspired dessert or a sweet snack!
What Are Liège Waffles?
For starters, you may be wondering how a Liège waffle differs from a Belgian waffle, which Trader Joe’s also sells. According to the TJ’s website, this recipe hails from a city in Belgium called Liège, and it’s different from your average waffle in a few key ways.
On top of your typical dough, flour, yeast, water, and salt, a Liège waffle is made with cultured butter and egg, and has crumbly pearls of sugar thrown in, giving it its signature soft yet crunchy texture. Given this ingredient list, it’s no surprise that Liège waffles are wonderfully dense with a buttery, brioche-like flavor. Liège waffles are also smaller yet thicker than standard waffles, and these can be enjoyed straight out of the package—no cooking required.
As one enthusiastic Reddit user put it: “[These are] delicious. Grabbed a pair at the checkout line yesterday. Should have added at least 4 more. [I] threw them in the microwave for 20 seconds. So good.”
The Trader Joe’s Brioche Style Liège Waffles retail for $3.99, and inside you’ll find six individually wrapped waffles. These crunchy circles of buttery goodness make the perfect breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert. Need proof? TJ’s shoppers, being the creative, amazing people that they are, have already come up with a ton of different ways to enjoy these treats.
How to Eat Liège Waffles
Before experimenting with these waffles, we recommend trying ‘em straight up with a cup of coffee or tea, ideally toasted or tossed in the air fryer for a few minutes, so you can enjoy them in their purest form and get an idea for how you might want to jazz them up. Here are a few ways to eat Liège waffles:
Waffles à la Mode
Did you know “à la mode” translates to “in style” in french? When it comes to pie (or in this case, waffles) it means plopping a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream on top. For the best results, make sure the waffle is warmed through first. A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup wouldn’t hurt either.
Liège Waffle Breakfast Sandwich
Liège waffles are inherently sweet, but that doesn’t mean they can’t work in savory dishes. In fact, for many fans, this is where they really shine. As TikTok user @hollywooddivanjl demonstrated, using TJ’s Liège waffles as the bread for a breakfast sandwich that includes fluffy eggs, savory cheese, and crispy bacon is a fantastic way to start your day. “This right here is amazing,” she declared.
Waffles with Fruit
Not an à la mode fan? Try à la fruit! It’s summer, so there’s plenty of fresh, ripe fruit to be had, and you might as well put it to good use. Raspberries, peaches, and plums would be great additions to this waffle. Bonus points if you sauté the fruit with some butter and sugar, then add a bit of whipped cream for a decadent touch.
Waffles au Mascarpone
According to a Reddit user who goes by @Nervouspie, mascarpone and some pantry staples are the way to go. “Get mascarpone cheese, vanilla bean paste, and honey, mix it all together, and top with strawberries” the user gushed. “[It’s] absolutely heaven.”
Waffles with Cookie Butter
When it comes to Liège waffles, it’s all about the toppings. Take a page from TikTok user @traderjoestreasurehunt’s book and top your waffle with fresh banana slices and another TJ’s staple—Speculoos Cookie Butter. To get that more runny consistency that’s ideal for drizzling, simply microwave your cookie butter for about 10 seconds. Delish!