Makes 16 waffles
1/2 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/4-ounce packet active dry yeast
3 cups unbleached allpurpose flour
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 cups whole milk
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Coconut oil, for brushing the waffle iron
Room-temperature butter, for serving
Pure maple s…