Sweet Breakfast Toppings

• It's larger than its cousin, the traditional waffle, so opt for light toppings if a Belgian waffle is only part of your meal. Fresh fruit, especially berries, or a dusting of sugar are traditional toppings. Cook the fruit down with a bit of sugar and water to make a chunky sauce that will seep into every crevice. Sprinkle a handful of toasted, chopped pecans or walnuts over a Belgian waffle topped with chopped bananas, or drizzle something sweet on the dish. Microwave a spoonful of your favorite jam, peanut butter or chocolate and hazelnut spread for a few seconds at a time until it starts to melt to make a sweet and simple sauce.

Savory Breakfast Toppings

• The truth is, there's no wrong time of day for a bacon-topped waffle. Traditional breakfast dishes are the perfect complement to a sturdy Belgian waffle, provided you pick a waffle recipe with little or no sugar. Top waffles with sauteed spinach and a fried egg, or sprinkle shredded cheese and crumbled bacon over a hot waffle. Or, if you've mastered the basic Belgian waffle and feel ready to challenge your taste buds, fold your toppings into the batter. Try filling waffles with various tried-and-true combos, like ham and cheese or Gruyere cheese and caramelized onion. Add more of these ingredients to the top of the finished waffle.

More Sweet Ideas

• For a decadent dessert, use a Belgian waffle as the base of a sundae. Top the waffle with any ice cream and toppings you enjoy; try the combination of strawberry ice cream, chocolate chips and shredded coconut. Gooey marshmallow sauce, chocolate whipped cream, pudding or pumpkin custard will ooze into the waffle's crevices. Sprinkle crushed shortbread or gingerbread cookies over any of these toppings. For a sweet treat that will appeal to your child -- or your inner child -- spread peanut butter and jelly over half a warm waffle and fold it into a sandwich.

More Savory Ideas

• According to the National Archives, the earliest form of the waffle was eaten in ancient Greece with herbs and cheese. That combination works today, too. Spread goat cheese, cream cheese or creme fraiche over a Belgian waffle and top it with fresh herbs. Add sliced salmon or caviar for a party-ready appetizer. A waffle can also hold a scoop of leftover chili or a combination of black beans, avocado and salsa. Chicken and waffles is a beloved dish in some parts of the country. No matter where you live, try topping a warm Belgian waffle with a piece of fried chicken or a few chicken tenders, and drizzle maple syrup over the whole delicious dish.