On March 25, breakfast lovers and waffle aficionados around the world celebrate International Waffle Day. While the occasion seems like a fun excuse to indulge in breakfast for dinner, many would be surprised to learn that the celebration originated in an unexpected way.
The holiday originated in Sweden centuries ago because of a linguistic faux pas that brought two holidays together. Våffeldagen, the Swedish word for Waffle Day, sounded phonetically similar to Vårfrudagen, the celebration of the Virgin Mary’s conception on March 25. Because of this linguistic connection, Swedish families began to celebrate Vårfrudagen by eating waffles.
Since then, International Waffle Day has become an opportunity for people worldwide to enjoy their favorite versions of the decadent, savory breakfast food. To honor the holiday, students share their favorite ways to prepare waffles.
Kyle Banker, a sophomore studying biology, likes to go all out with his waffles.
“I’d say an Oreo-infused with whipped cream, and chocolate chips in the whipped cream, would be my go-to waffle. That would be a great way to start my morning. There’s a place in my hometown that makes something similar,” Banker said. “I’ve never tried to make my own–unless we’re counting Eggo waffles. I can make an Eggo waffle.”
Giulia Trippetti is a first-year student studying nursing. While Trippetti admits to not eating waffles often, she says they always have to be smothered with a little something sweet.
“If I were to eat a waffle, it would definitely need to have Nutella. Maybe, some bananas on top too. But definitely, Nutella,” she said.
Lucas Burkholder, a sophomore studying music engineering, loves fancy waffles from breakfast restaurants but struggles to replicate them at home.
“I love those waffles that are filled with stuff from a nice breakfast place. I’ll usually choose strawberries or any fruit to go in it,” he said. “I’ve tried to make them at home. The first one will come out good, and then I don’t know what happens with the rest. I need to work on my craft.”
Ashley Caples, a junior studying industrial engineering, enjoys different sweet and savory waffles.
"If I have a waffle, it needs to have cinnamon mixed into it. I love cinnamon. As for my favorite topping? Probably strawberries," Caples said. "There's also a soul-food place I go to back home in Tampa that has a great chicken and waffles. I love a good chicken and waffles."
Max Kalan, a senior studying finance and entrepreneurship, says his taste in waffle toppings has changed over the years.
"Honestly, when it comes to breakfast, I'm more of a pancake guy. When it comes to waffles, I'll go for a blueberry waffle with maybe a little bit of that IHOP blueberry syrup," Kalan said. "I used to be into chocolate chip waffles, but as I've gotten older, it's gotten too sweet for me."
Maia Marshall, a junior studying architecture, prefers the simplicity of a chocolate chip waffle.
“A chocolate chip waffle with whipped cream will do it for me. Maybe some cinnamon sprinkled on top, but not in the waffle since the cinnamon flavor can get too strong. I’ll add in a strawberry on top here-and-there.”
Lewis Walker, a freshman studying film, favors the simplicity of a plain waffle but isn't opposed to indulging in some soul-food now and then.
"I like to keep it low-key when it comes to waffles. A plain waffle with just some maple syrup and powdered sugar would be good. Being from the South, I think chicken and waffles are also really good. So, if I get a chance to go for that on a menu, I might."
