Cardamom-Date Waffles

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Preheat a waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions.

2. Step 2.

   In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups whole milk, ⅓ cup melted butter, ⅓ cup maple syrup, and 2 large egg yolks until well blended.

3. Step 3.

   In a separate bowl, combine 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup whole wheat flour, ½ cup crushed bran flakes cereal, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, and ¼ teaspoon baking soda. Stir to mix.

4. Step 4.

   Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until fairly well mixed. A few lumps are fine; they will disappear during cooking.

5. Step 5.

   In another bowl, beat 2 large egg whites and a pinch of cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Add 1 tablespoon sugar and continue beating until stiff but not dry peaks form.

6. Step 6.

   Gently fold about a quarter of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it, then fold in the remaining egg whites along with ¾ cup finely chopped dates until just combined.

7. Step 7.

   Ladle the batter onto the preheated waffle iron, using about ½ to ¾ cup per waffle depending on the iron size. Close the lid and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Serve immediately with butter and maple syrup.