Belgian waffles were invented in Belgium , with the style most Americans know as the Brussels waffle becoming popular there before spreading abroad. The waffle’s U.S. fame took off later at the 1958 Brussels Expo, then the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair and the 1964 New York World’s Fair.

Quick Scoop

The name “Belgian waffle” is tied to Belgium, but the exact origin depends on the type:

  • Brussels waffles are the light, airy ones commonly called Belgian waffles in the U.S.
  • Liège waffles are denser, sweeter waffles that also come from Belgium.

Simple answer

If you want the shortest version: Belgian waffles were invented in Belgium. What many people call a Belgian waffle today is mostly the Brussels-style version that was introduced internationally and renamed for easier recognition.

Tiny history

Belgian waffles were showcased in Brussels in 1958, introduced to the U.S. in Seattle in 1962, and then became widely popular at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.