A History of Waffles

Waffles have a rich history dating back to ancient Greece, evolving from savory flatbreads to sweet treats popularized throughout Europe and eventually the Americas. Their journey includes religious uses, culinary innovations, and the rise of commercially available mixes and electric waffle irons, establishing the popular food we know today.

Ancient Greek Oos

• 00:00:43 The history of waffles dates back to ancient Greece with flat cakes called 'oos' cooked between metal plates over an open fire. These 'oos' were typically savory and lacked the leavening agents and square grid pattern of modern waffles. The name 'oos' may have originated from a Greek coin or the Latin word for offering.

Communion Wafer

• 00:01:48 During the 9th and 10th centuries, 'oos' evolved into Communion wafers, cooked in 'hostus' or 'uus' irons, with imagery of Christ or other biblical scenes. These wafers became a common food throughout Europe enjoyed by all social classes and were sold by street vendors near churches.

Crusades Influence

• 00:02:27 The Crusades introduced spices like cinnamon and ginger, which were incorporated into waffle batter, moving away from the traditional bland wafers. The grid design that defines modern waffles likely originated in the 15th century with Dutch wafers, giving them the name 'waffle.'

Waffle Iron Innovations

• 00:06:32 Early waffle irons were difficult to handle, but in 1868, Cornelius Swartwout patented a new design with an easy-to-use handle that revolutionized waffle making. The development of electric waffle irons followed in the 20th century, leading to a golden age of waffle makers from the 1920s to the 1950s.

Waffle House and Nike

• 00:10:11 The Waffle House, a 24-hour restaurant chain, was founded in 1955 and became a popular spot for waffles. Additionally, the waffle pattern inspired the design of Nike's shoe soles, demonstrating the impact waffles have had beyond the culinary world.