Best Waffle Maker Reviews
Comparing the best waffle makers, helping you to decide which waffle maker best suits you!
Don't want to Waffle on your decision? Skip straight through to my reviews by clicking on any of the selections below!
Under $100
If you are looking for the best waffle maker under $100, then look no further. I have reviewed and compared all of the top rated affordable waffle makers in order to help you find the perfect one for your kitchen. Check out my reviews now.
$100 - $200
Looking for a medium budget waffle maker? I've compared the best waffle makers priced between $100 and $200. My comparisons include Cuisinart, Black & Decker, and Hamilton Beach. Click here to find out more!
Over $200
Looking for a more substantial waffle maker over $200, then I have you covered. I've included some of these brands in my comparisons including the Krups GQ502D, the T-fal Waffle Maker and lastly the Cuisinart Belgian waffle maker.
Novelty
There is nothing like cooking up a novelty waffle for my young one's birthday. His favourite is Star Wars! Click through to see my reviews on the large range of novelty shapes available today.
Commercial
Looking to make a lot of waffles? Look no further. I've included reviews on the commercial waffle makers including the Nostalgia WF200, and Chef'sChoice 840B
Hello! I’m Nancy, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to my Best Waffle Maker review site. I’ll let you in on a little secret right away: the waffle maker might just be my all-time favorite kitchen appliance!
If you're like me (or my kids), you just can't go past a decadent waffle. Whether it be for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert or just a little 'fill me up' snack, sweet or savoury, I'm there!!
I’ve created the Best Waffle Maker review site to help you through the maze of waffle makers that are out there. I’ve gone and compared a range of waffle makers and divided them into categories to help you through the decision making process on just ‘what waffle maker is right for you’. From Belgian waffles to our classic American style, there’s a waffle maker for every taste and every situation. Don’t know the difference between a Belgian and a Classic American Waffle? Well, I’ll answer that for you too!As a mother of three young ones, who loves to cook, I’ll be using my expert knowledge of family cooking to guide you through your waffle maker purchase. In this post I will start with the different types of Waffles, the different types of waffle makers and how they work. I’ll then provide you with a comparison of some of the more popular models that are out there, so let’s get started!
What is a waffle maker and what are the benefits of having one in your kitchen?
A waffle maker is a kitchen appliance that heats to bake batter inside of it, into the shape of a round, thin, crispy or fluffy square. It then cooks until both sides are browned and crisp. Waffles can be eaten plain (with toppings) or with syrup or loaded up with your favorite fruits and cream or ice-cream. Or if you prefer savoury, add your favourite pizza toppings or like one of my fav’s, top a nice crispy waffle with a crunchy piece of southern fried chicken drizzled with sweet sticky bourbon maple syrup, oh my!
Waffle makers come in many shapes and styles: trays which cook one at time; rotating discs for several at once; grids for making Belgian-style waffles that have deeper pockets on one side than the other – this type has two cooking surfaces so you only need to flip them over half way through baking and electric griddles with heated plates where your choice of batter is poured onto hot plates that create individual cooked squares as they’re needed. I’ve listed some below –
- Classic Waffle Iron.
- Belgian Waffle Iron.
- Flipping Waffle Irons.
- Ceramic Belgian Waffle Irons.
- Mini Waffle Iron.
- 4-Slice Waffle Iron.
- Removable Plate Waffle Iron.
- Waffle Bowl Irons.
The benefits of having a waffle maker on hand in your kitchen are endless. From a quick breakfast to an easy dessert, they are perfect for everyone.
One thing you should know is that not all waffle makers will make the same type of waffles. There’s different types of irons available and with each one comes its own set of benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to understand what you want in a waffle maker before deciding on which iron best fits your needs.
How I personally compare & rate my choices
With over 10 years of making delicious waffles for my family, I use my personal knowledge from the kitchen in helping you to decide what the perfect waffle maker is for you
Having been cooking waffles for over 10 years now, since my eldest was able to enjoy them with me, I know a thing or two about which waffle makers make the perfect waffle. From my experience, the key to finding that perfect waffle maker for you is in five parts:
- Who are you making waffles for?
- How many people are you making waffles for?
- How much time do you have?
- How much space do you have in your kitchen?
- What is your budget?
There are many variables to consider when choosing a waffle maker, but these five should give you a good idea of what will work for you. We’ll be doing an in-depth review of all the different types below – so keep reading!
I provide expert knowledge about waffles, waffle makers and accessories including ratings and data about how they measures up in various categories of performance. I’ll explain what sets a product apart from its competitors, and suggest other comparable products based on price or use. We also look at how the waffle makers have been designed, and what type of buyer they are suited to – so you can make your decision based on what is right for you.
What to look for when buying a waffle maker
I have quite a few waffle makers in my kitchen as I’m known to cook up a waffle storm from time to time and have various machines at hand, allowing me to whip up the perfect waffle any time of day and for any occasion.
Below, I’ve included some of the factors I’ve looked at when deciding which waffle maker I needed, as over the years I’ve come to know that one waffle maker doesn’t give me the freedom to do a quick and easy meal versus a decadent feast of waffles and toppings for breakfast or dessert.
The type of waffle I want to make, be it Sweet, Savoury, Thick, Thin, Fluffy or Crisp
- This is important if you want a certain type of dough (or batter) to cook in your appliance.
- For instance, those who want thicker Belgian-style waffles might prefer one with deeper grids and less surface area as the deep grid design leaves more room inside for larger amounts of dough to mix without spilling over onto the outside.
- Vice versa, someone who likes a crispy waffle with a crisp exterior might instead look for an iron that cooks two thin pieces at once.
The shape of the waffle I want to make –
- Square shaped – for that spicy southern chicken and sticky bourbon sauce dish
- Round-shaped – topped with ice cream and your favorite topping,
- Heart-shaped – for those ‘romantics at heart’
- Bowl-shaped – for that banana split or fruit cup and ice cream sundae
- Special Occasion novelty shapes for birthdays and holidays.
The size and style I am looking for –
- A lot of home cooks prefer an appliance that doesn’t take up too much counter space
- the size of the cooking surface so they have enough room to fit their favorite recipes
- Mini waffle makers for making snack-sized waffles
Who are you making waffles for? –
- Some people might have a family of six and want the biggest machine
- While others are cooking for one or two.
What’s your budget? –
- A higher-end waffle maker will be more durable with features like smart technology that can make adjustments on its own to cook different types of dough perfectly but you’ll pay a hefty price tag
- Indicator lights are a must, so you know when the waffle plates are hot enough to start pouring the waffle batter
- New to waffle making and just want to buy a basic maker to see if you’re into them ( you will be!)
- Some I know, buy multiple of the same maker so that they can cook up batches and freeze them for quick breakfasts or snacks
Must-have features for for a five-star waffle maker –
- An indicator light is a must, so you know when the waffle plates are hot enough to start pouring the waffle batter
- A countdown timer to know when the waffle is ready
- Browning settings
- Quick cook time
The amount of time it takes to heat up –
- How long does it take to heat up before you pour the first batter
- How long you need to wait between batches also varies by model; some can be heated in only 60 seconds while others take upwards of four minutes.
Quick clean-up time when the waffles are done –
- Easy to Clean
- Removeable plates with different shapes
- Removable dishwasher-safe plates
- Non-stick surfaces
- Anti overflow
- Drip tray
- Stainless steel
If you are investing in your first waffle maker, it’s important to think about the factors I’ve listed above and how they will make your waffle-making experience more enjoyable
If you’ve been cooking waffles for a while then you will understand why I’ve included the above factors to consider when deciding on your next waffle maker purchase.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry! I’ve included my favorite top picks below to give you an idea of what’s out there and what people like about them
My Top Picks for each Category for 2024
Things to look for in each of the Best Waffle Maker categories
Best Waffle Makers under $100
- Durability and Build Quality: At this price point, look for waffle makers constructed with quality materials that offer stability during use. Ensure the hinges and handle are sturdy.
- Ease of Use: Simplicity is key. Opt for models with intuitive controls, straightforward cleaning, and clear indicator lights.
- Waffle Quality: Even budget models should produce evenly cooked waffles. Check for consistent heat distribution and reliable temperature control.
- Extra Features: While extras might be limited in this range, features like non-stick coatings and adjustable temperature settings are valuable additions.
Best Waffle Makers between $100 and $200
- Versatility: Look for waffle makers that offer multiple browning settings and can handle different types of batter (e.g., gluten-free or whole wheat).
- Performance: Higher price should correlate with quicker cooking times and more consistent results. A good seal to prevent batter leakage is crucial.
- Design and Aesthetics: Consider models that not only function well but also have an appealing design that matches your kitchen décor.
- Convenience Features: Features like removable plates for easy cleaning, audible alerts when waffles are done, and digital displays can enhance the user experience.
Best Waffle Makers over $200
- Advanced Technology: At this premium level, expect smart features such as WiFi connectivity for recipe downloads or automatic timing adjustments based on batter type.
- Build and Durability: Look for high-end materials like stainless steel. The construction should feel solid and built to last many years.
- Innovative Features: Options like rotating for even cooking, dual plates for making two different types of waffles at once, or models that come with additional snack plates can be particularly appealing.
- Warranty and Support: A longer warranty period and responsive customer service are important, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in the product.
Best Novelty Waffle Makers
- Theme and Design: Choose a waffle maker that offers unique shapes and designs that appeal to children or match specific themes (e.g., holiday or cartoon characters).
- Safety Features: Especially important if kids are involved in the cooking process. Look for cool-touch handles and automatic shut-off features.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick surfaces that wipe clean easily and removable parts that are dishwasher safe will make maintenance a breeze.
- Size and Storage: Novelty waffle makers should be compact and easy to store, as they may not be used as frequently as standard models.
Best Commercial Waffle Makers
- Capacity and Efficiency: Commercial waffle makers should be able to produce large quantities of waffles quickly and consistently, ideal for restaurant settings or large events.
- Temperature and Timer Control: Precise control over cooking temperature and time is crucial for producing perfect waffles batch after batch.
- Robustness: Designed for heavy use, these should be extremely durable and easy to maintain.
- Safety and Hygiene: Look for features that support hygiene such as stainless steel surfaces, and safety features that protect users in a busy commercial environment.
FAQ: Waffle Makers
1. Q: What is the difference between a Belgian waffle maker and a regular waffle maker?
A: Belgian waffle makers produce thicker waffles with deeper pockets, ideal for holding toppings. Regular waffle makers make thinner, crisper waffles.
2. Q: Can I make anything other than waffles in a waffle maker?
A: Yes, waffle makers are versatile and can be used to cook other items like hash browns, paninis, and even brownies.
3. Q: Do I need to grease my waffle maker?
A: Most modern waffle makers have non-stick coatings that don’t require greasing. However, a light coating of oil can help ensure waffles release easily and aid in cleanup.
4. Q: How do I clean my waffle maker?
A: Always unplug the waffle maker and let it cool completely. Wipe the plates with a damp cloth. For tough residue, a few drops of cooking oil can help loosen it. Check the manufacturer’s instructions as some plates may be dishwasher-safe.
5. Q: What’s the best batter for a crispy waffle?
A: For crispy waffles, use a batter with a higher sugar and butter content. Also, letting the batter rest for about 30 minutes before cooking can improve texture.
6. Q: How much batter should I use for each waffle?
A: This depends on your waffle maker. Generally, about 1/2 to 2/3 cups of batter is sufficient for standard-sized waffle irons.
7. Q: Why do my waffles stick to the waffle maker?
A: Waffles may stick if the waffle maker isn’t properly heated before adding the batter, or if the non-stick coating has worn off.
8. Q: How long does it take to cook a waffle?
A: Typically, it takes about 5 minutes to cook a waffle. However, this can vary based on the model and the desired crispness.
9. Q: Can I make waffles ahead of time and reheat them?
A: Yes, you can cook waffles in advance and reheat them in a toaster or an oven for a quick and convenient breakfast.
10. Q: Are there any health-conscious waffle recipes?
A: Absolutely! You can use whole grain flour, reduce sugar, or incorporate fruits and nuts into your batter for healthier options.
11. Q: What features should I look for in a waffle maker?
A: Look for adjustable temperature controls, non-stick surfaces, and indicator lights. Additional features like removable plates can make cleaning easier.
12. Q: Can I leave the waffle maker unattended while it cooks?
A: It’s not recommended to leave a waffle maker unattended. Cooking times are short and require monitoring to prevent burning.
13. Q: How do I know when the waffle is done?
A: Most waffle makers have indicator lights that signal when a waffle is done. Otherwise, waffles are usually ready when they are golden brown and stop steaming.
14. Q: Is it worth buying a waffle maker with removable plates?
A: Yes, removable plates are easier to clean and can often be washed in the dishwasher, saving time and effort.
15. Q: What is the best way to store a waffle maker?
A: Ensure the appliance is clean and dry before storing. If possible, store it in an upright position to save space.
16. Q: Can waffle makers be used by children?
A: Waffle makers can be used under adult supervision. Choose models with cool-touch handles and automatic shut-off features for added safety.
17. Q: What are some common mistakes when using a waffle maker?
A: Overfilling the batter, not preheating the iron, and using the wrong type of batter can all lead to less-than-perfect waffles.
18. Q: How can I make my waffles fluffier?
A: Use carbonated water in your batter instead of tap water to make the waffles lighter and fluffier.
19. Q: Why does my waffle maker smoke during cooking?
A: A little smoke can be normal, especially if oil or batter spills onto the heating element. Excessive smoke might indicate that the appliance needs cleaning.
20. Q: What is the lifespan of a waffle maker?
A: With proper maintenance and care, a good quality waffle maker should last several years, even with regular use.
Top 10 tips to make the best Waffles ever!
Preheat Your Waffle Iron: Make sure your waffle iron is fully heated before pouring in the batter. A well-preheated iron is essential for evenly cooked, golden waffles.
Whip the Egg Whites: Separating the egg whites and beating them until stiff peaks form before folding them into the batter can make your waffles lighter and fluffier.
Use Oil Instead of Butter: For crispier waffles, use vegetable oil in your batter instead of butter. Oil doesn’t contain water, which can make the exterior of your waffles softer.
Experiment with Yeasted Batter: Try a yeasted waffle recipe for waffles that are airy and have a deep, complex flavor. Remember, yeasted batter needs to rest, often overnight, so plan ahead.
Add Cornstarch: Mixing a bit of cornstarch into your batter can help make the exteriors of your waffles crispier while keeping the insides soft.
Finish Waffles in the Oven: To keep waffles crisp while you finish cooking the rest, place them in a 200° F oven directly on the rack. This can keep them warm and even crisp them up further.
Check the Iron’s Temperature: If your waffle maker doesn’t have a preheat indicator, test it by flicking water onto it. If the water sizzles, the iron is ready.
Look for the Steam: Waffles are generally done when the steam stops escaping from the waffle maker. This usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes.
Proper Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to slowly spread on its own but not so thin that it runs quickly. Adjust with a little extra flour or liquid to get it just right.
Avoid Overfilling: Use the right amount of batter to avoid overflow. Too little and the waffles will be thin and insufficiently shaped; too much and you’ll have a mess.
Here's a list of other items I stock in my kitchen which are must haves when cooking up a waffle storm.
Click through to read my latest articles!
Use Waffle Makers as a POP of colour in the kitchen
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Waffle Makers part of the rainbow connection
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A Classic waffle recipe you can easily adapt to make it your own.
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Cleaning your waffle maker
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Waffle makers these days can do a lot more than make waffles
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What is the difference between a regular waffle maker and a Belgian Waffle maker?
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