The 8 best waffle irons according to laboratory tests (2023)

how we test

We tested 19 of the best waffle makers in our lab and saw how they toast both yeast- and yeast-free waffles. We ran tests on all settings of each waffle maker to accurately gauge the unit's heat level and baking uniformity. Testers also cleaned each machine repeatedly and found it easy to clean. All tests evaluated the waffle irons in terms of design, performance, size, ease of cleaning, and overall value.

Other options we tried

• WD700162 Classic Round Fully Clad Stainless Steel Waffle Maker: This fully clad appliance received points for its elegant appearance and cooking indicator. However, when tested in our lab, it underperformed. A few spots showed up when baking, with paleness around the edges and random hot spots. Those caveats didn't make this waffle maker worth the high price tag.
• Black+Decker 3-in-1 Waffle Maker, Grill, and GriddlePreviously listed in our Best Local Convertible for its versatile features, this 3-in-1 can prepare a full breakfast. The plates are reversible, with a waffle iron on one side and a flat plate on the other. The evaluators were disappointed with the low quality of the performance of the functions. The lower plates were hotter than the upper plates, resulting in uneven cooking/browning.
• Oster Belgian waffle iron, stainless steel:An inexpensive option, this waffle maker is definitely a no-frills choice. While it produced crispy enough waffles, testers found that the thickness and texture fell short of expectations. They also deducted points for the lack of numbering on the temperature controls, making it difficult to heat accurately.
• Presto 03510 FlipSide - Belgian ceramic gofrera: The Presto certainly had promising potential with its 180-degree ability and built-in timer, but it ultimately failed to impress in testing. The plates are reversible, but not very secure and tend to slip. This posed a potential safety issue as the plates were still very hot.
• NordicWare Cast Aluminum Belgian Waffle Maker: The stovetop function of this waffle maker sets it apart from the rest. There are no settings or switches, making it a simple and basic device. Tests in our laboratory did not achieve uniform heating across the burner. It had to be rotated every 30 seconds to get consistent colors, which isn't ideal for anyone looking for a hands-free experience.
  

What to look for in a waffle iron

It's hard to beat a golden brownbuttercream waffleDiner, soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, although some might argue that the classic Belgian waffle is really the waffle of choice.

But what's the difference anyway? The main difference you'll notice is the deeper square pockets of a Belgian waffle, which have generous amounts of butter on top and shiny indentations of maple syrup. By comparison, classic waffles have smaller, flatter pockets and are often thinner (think Waffle House or Eggo waffles).

What you may not have noticed is this authenticity.belgian wafflesare traditionally made with yeast dough, while buttermilk waffles are leavened with baking powder or baking soda. Some Belgian waffles are also encrusted with coarse sugar during baking, intended to be eaten without the syrup, more as a snack or on-the-go treat. If you are a waffle lover, yeast or sourdough waffles will delight you.

If you end up buying a waffle maker designed with the deep pockets of a Belgian-style waffle maker, you can absolutely make buttermilk waffles in it. If you decide to use a thinner waffle iron, you can still play around with the yeast dough. When choosing a waffle iron for your kitchen, there are many options adapted to the type of waffles you like the most or your commitment to the art of waffle ironing.

settings and controls

Waffle makers come with multiple settings to help you get the perfect waffle. Almost all machines have two basic sets of controls. The first is an indicator (usually a light) that lets you know when the waffle iron is heated up and ready to bake. The second is a variable darkening slider that allows you to choose how light or dark you want your waffles to be.

Sometimes the heating indicator is also accompanied by a "ready to cook" light or sound, which is helpful if you don't like standing in front of the waffle iron waiting impatiently for it to finish. The most advanced machines have a digital timer and can even adjust the cook time and temperature based on the type of waffle you're making, eliminating almost all the guesswork.

When it comes to how your waffle is made, everyone has a different opinion on what's better (like toast). Look for a machine with at least five cooking settings to help you get the perfect finish. This control is usually a knob, slider, or digital setting.

Some machines also include a "Texture" setting. The texture adjustment is more than a toast adjustment. It allows you to make evenly baked waffles that are fluffy and crispy at one end of the spectrum, or crispy on the outside and pudding-like on the inside at the other end of the spectrum.

The extra checks can be pricey, but for those keen enough to create the perfect breakfast waffle, it might be worth it. Digital displays, automatic programs based on the type of waffle you're making, and personal preferences are customizable.

waffle style and portions

If you have thought a little about what kind of waffles you like best, this decision will help you a lot when choosing a suitable machine. If puddles of syrup and the crunch of a Belgian waffle amaze you, be sure to find a machine that makes them big enough. If you're comfortable with a classic waffle, there are plenty of reasonable options for that, too.

If you plan to make a lot of waffles, you may want to look for machines that make two or more hearty waffles at a time. They tend to take up a bit more space than single-batch waffle irons, but breakfast shouldn't take all morning to prepare. The efficiency of a multi-batch waffle maker pays off when you have a hungry audience asking how long it takes to make.

easy cleaning

If you've never cleaned a waffle iron, you may not have experienced the frustration of removing half-burnt, half-sticky batter (which definitely shouldn't be run under running water) from the grooves of a machine. 🇧🇷 It could really make you wonder if the price is worth it. The ease of cleaning your waffle maker is a consideration that really comes second to making the waffles themselves.

Recognizing these issues, waffle makers have made some improvements when it comes to cleaning their machine with ease. Most electric ranges come with a non-stick coating that makes it difficult for the waffle iron to stick to the warming plates. If the dough sticks to it, a light cleaning or gentle scrubbing can usually remove any remaining crumbs. A quick squirt of cooking spray before cooking isn't a bad idea either.

More advanced manufacturers have panels that can be completely removed, making hand or dish washing incredibly convenient. Be sure to read the instruction manual before placing any part of your Maker in the dishwasher.

Many waffle irons also have channels built around the center of the waffle iron to catch spilled batter. This part of the device is usually nonstick, but may require additional brushing or cleaning to remove any accumulated residue.

It is best to season the waffle iron over time and never scrub it too hard with chemicals other than soap and water. Always clean your machine and dry it completely before storing it.

store

A waffle maker is certainly one of the most fun appliances in your kitchen, but most people don't have the counter space or interest in leaving the maker on the counter for long. With that in mind, most waffle irons are designed for upright storage or have a flat design to easily slide into a cabinet or large drawer.

If storage space is a big issue, you also have the option of choosing a mini machine like the Dash Mini Maker. If you're making the most of your space, consider investing in a more versatile machine like the Black+Decker 3-in-1 Waffle Maker, which doubles as a flat griddle or grill.hot sandwichesand meat.

Preis

There is a wide range of prices for waffle irons. When considering how much to invest in a waffle maker, it might be a good idea to consider how many waffles you're actually eating. For $20 or less, you can have a smaller waffle maker that will satisfy your occasional waffle craving without a huge commitment. For $30 to $50, you can have a machine that works a little harder and produces better quality waffles that are better suited to your tastes.

Do you order waffles at every brunch? Are you a casual breakfast to dinner type? Do you have clear ideas about what the perfect waffle should look, smell and taste like? If you answered yes to these questions, you'll likely get good mileage out of a heavier, more expensive waffle maker that can live up to your high expectations.

On the other hand, if you think you can only make waffles once in a while, or basically just want pancakes, you're probably better off choosing a less expensive waffle maker that won't take up a lot of valuable space in your kitchen.

the guarantee

Waffle makers often come with a one, two, or in some cases three-year limited warranty. Warranties generally cover any manufacturing defects, such as faulty wiring or broken lights and screens. Damage during proper use of the machine, such as the machine not turning on or a broken panel, may also be covered by the warranty. Using the machine for purposes other than cooking and modifying the machine yourself may void the warranty.

Types of waffle irons

Electric

Almost all electric machines on the market today are equipped with non-stick coated waffle irons. The plates are covered with metal or ceramic with a non-stick or Teflon finish. The exteriors are designed and can be used primarily with plastic and/or brushed stainless steel elements.

When choosing an electric machine, look for models with sturdy lids to prevent the lid from opening when steam is released and the cookie expands. Machines with lighter lids should have a latch to hold the lid in place.

Any part of the machine that you need to touch during use (the lid handle, the latch, even the drip plate and the bottom of the machine) must be heat resistant to prevent burns during use. Power machines must be completely cooled in the open position before cleaning and removing panels for washing.

hundreds of weapons

Less popular than electric models, but just as effective in many cases, stovetop waffle makers are typically made from cast aluminum or cast iron. Cast aluminum models are made with a non-stick coating, while cast iron models must be seasoned and oiled before each use to prevent sticking.

Stovetop waffle irons are particularly convenient for storage, as they typically take up about the same space as a baking sheet. You'll also find them useful while camping or traveling if you love making waffles on vacation.

cabrio

It can be hard to rationalize buying another single-purpose countertop appliance when you already own multiple kitchen appliances. A convertible waffle iron, with its additional plates, may be more appropriate. Perfect waffles paired with eggs and bacon, all cooked in the same appliance, add another level of convenience to this worthwhile appliance. A waffle maker that converts to a sandwich maker for grilled cheese sandwiches and tasty paninis can also expand your culinary repertoire.

Soil

kitchen art

Cuisinart, known for their quality small appliances, has an impressive range of waffle makers to choose from. From the more affordable WMR-CA Round Classic model to the full-size double-rotation Belgian waffle maker, there's an option for just about every serious cook. It also has models designed for vertical storage, convertible use, and multi-waffle making.

Presto

Combining the quality of professionally made waffles with the convenience of a home maker at a reasonable price, Presto is once again a useful kitchen gadget that is easy to use and loved by any home cook. Presto originally started out making food preservatives and pressure cookers, but over the last century it has expanded its lineup to include reliable kitchen appliances that fit niches not always filled by some of the bigger brands.

screenplay

The first thing that will strike you when browsing Dash devices is how cute and attractive they are. Bright colors and patterns, festive and seasonal designs, and compact size define Dash devices. While some of these cute designs are pricey, most Dash devices are budget to mid-range priced and highly rated by users online.

Breville

Luxury home brewers have made Breville the company it is today, but that's not all. This Australian based company has branched out to offer quality essential kitchen equipment for anyone looking for all the bells and whistles. Modern brushed stainless steel designs provide a consistent look throughout the range, allowing it to blend seamlessly into almost any kitchen.

accessories

Most waffle irons don't come with any extra accessories, but there are a few tools you can take with you to help you along the way. For example, a jar for waffle batter makes serving easier and more convenient than scooping batter out of the batter.mixing bowlmachine made and neater. You can also invest in a small metal or silicone spatula to lift the freshly made waffle off the hot plate and loosen any bits that are trying to get stuck.

frequent questions

How do you use a waffle iron?

Whether you're using a regular waffle maker or a Belgian waffle maker, the process is pretty straightforward.

The first step is to preheat the waffle iron before adding the batter. To preheat, plug in your waffle maker, turn it on, and leave the lid closed to allow the waffle maker to heat up. Most electronic waffle makers have an indicator light that lets you know when the waffle maker is hot and ready to batter.

Once hot, you need to grease your waffle iron with some nonstick cooking spray and add your waffle batter. The waffle batter will spread automatically when you close the waffle maker lid, but you can spread thicker batter with a spoon before closing the lid.

Close the lid and wait until the indicator light shows that the waffle is ready. If you have a rotary waffle maker, after closing the lid, turn the lid to start the cooking process. If your waffle maker doesn't have an indicator light, you'll need to keep an eye on the steam to know when the waffles are done baking. While the waffle is baking, steam will come out of the waffle iron. When the steam stops, the waffle is done.

Baking a waffle generally takes four to six minutes. The exact time depends on the type of waffle iron you have and the level of browning you choose. Do not open the lid before cooking is complete or you risk breaking the waffle. Use a fork or spatula to remove the waffles from the maker and repeat to make more waffles, or turn off the maker and let it cool before cleaning.

How much batter do you put in a waffle iron?

The amount of batter you use per waffle depends on the type of waffle you are making and the size of your waffle iron. Belgian waffles require more batter than regular waffles because they are larger and thicker. Waffle irons that bake multiple waffles at a time require more batter than those that bake only one waffle at a time. In general, you can use between 1/4 cup and 3/4 cup of batter in a waffle iron. Consult your owner's manual for the suggested amount of grease for your model.

How do you know when to flip a waffle iron?

Rotary waffle irons need to be turned to start cooking, so turn them over as soon as you add the batter and close the lid. Flipping the waffle maker right after adding the batter helps distribute the batter throughout the waffle maker, leaving you with a full, evenly baked waffle.

Can you do anything else in a waffle iron?

Waffle irons are not only suitable for cooking waffles. You can also make hash browns, eggs, biscuits, French toast, quesadillas, pizza, falafel, and grilled cheese sandwiches. You can even make waffle-shaped treats out of other batters like brownies, cookies, cornbread, and banana bread.

Why trust not fir?

Sharon Lehmanis a domestic husband who happens to be a registered dietitian. He likes to make room for whatever gadget he makes cooking quicker and easier, specializing in testing and reviewing small kitchen appliances for The Spruce Eats. When it comes to waffles, she has the best option on this list, the Cuisinart Classic Waffle Maker, which she uses to make weekend lunches for her family.

Unser Trade Associate Editorraquel leeevaluated the test results from our lab and researched the qualities of each model to determine the best options to recommend in this updated roundup.