The Demon Days Red Ale from Triple Crossing Brewing Company in Richmond is a blood red beer with malty and hoppy notes that provides great balance and offers hints of coffee, toffee, and smoke. It’s not as bitter as some other reds on the market, which makes it perfect for a sweet and savory dish like waffles. The yeast in beer makes it a perfect, albeit unexpected, ingredient in baked goods, and these waffles have a little brown sugar to play up the hints of molasses and a touch of cinnamon to play off the subtle spice. Maple glazed bacon gets tossed in at the end just before baking, creating pockets of caramelized crunch where it hits the waffle iron. The waffles are fantastic on their own with bacon and real maple syrup, or you can play them up with toppings. For an impressive brunch, serve the waffles with berries, whipped cream and the nicest syrup you can afford. For a savory feast, top the waffles with fried chicken thighs and a mix of sambal oelek, local honey and light maple syrup. (The latter elicited four letter words of delight when I served it for dinner, so you know it’s good.)