Waffles, one of the oldest desserts, have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. According to experts, modern-day waffles may have evolved from "crustula," a type of sweet biscuit loved by the ancient Romans. Made with simple ingredients like flour, honey, and lard, crustula were cooked between two heated irons, much like today’s waffles. Over the centuries, the cooking technique was refined, and by the Middle Ages, biscuits with grooves appeared, closely resembling modern waffles.
Italian waffle cookies Ferratella, made with a with an iron press, are thought to be the link between crustula and waffles.Guido Paradisi/Alamy Stock Photo
In Italy, a similar treat called Ferratelle is thought to be the link between ancient Roman crustulas and today’s waffles. Made with irons engraved with family initials, Ferratelle have stood the test of time, particularly in regions like Abruzzo, where they are still enjoyed as a treasured treat. These Italian waffle cookies, with their characteristic tiny square grooves, are popular during holidays and special occasions, reflecting a long tradition passed down through generations.
The migration of this dessert to Northern Europe and the United States occurred over time, notably during the Middle Ages along European trade routes and later with Dutch settlers in the early 1600s. Today, waffles are a beloved dish worldwide, celebrated for their versatility and historical significance, from ancient Rome to the modern breakfast table.
