Origins of Waffles

Waffles have a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of flat cakes made from cereal grains found as early as the Neolithic age. The first known iteration resembling modern waffles was called oblios, which were cooked between two metal plates in ancient Greece, lacking the sweetness we associate with contemporary waffles. As cooking technology evolved, particularly during the Iron Age, grains were pressed and cooked between heated plates, leading to the development of more complex shapes and designs. This evolution reflects not only technological advancements but also cultural practices, as these flat cakes spread through Europe and became associated with various rituals.