Proof the yeast in lukewarm milk for 7 minutes, whisking vigorously to dissolve clumps.

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.

Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.

Add vanilla, then add eggs one at a time, incorporating after each addition.

Add butter one tablespoon at a time until incorporated.

Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough, add the pearl sugar, and stir to combine.

Cover and let the dough rest for 15 minutes.

Heat your waffle iron to 370F.

Spray the waffle iron with cooking spray.

Add some dough to the waffle iron and spread it out thinly.

Close the lid and cook until the waffles are nice and brown.

Remove the waffles from the waffle iron carefully.