After clicking through our 12 Favorite Foods Totally Transformed with a Waffle Iron and Classic and Creative Waffle Recipes, you may find yourself in the market for a waffle maker. But before you run out and make your purchase, there are some important things to consider: Are you more of a classic waffler, or are you a bit more on the adventurous side? If classic is your go-to, then pick a waffle maker based on your favorite shape and thickness. If youre looking to get creative, then consider a larger model, like a four-slice Belgian-style waffle maker — youll have more room to play!
Shapes and sizes: Once youve decided on classic (thin) or Belgian-style (thick), there are plenty of shapes to choose from. Both the classic and Belgian come in traditional round and square, but there are plenty of other shapes to choose from: hearts, animals, sticks and pops (just to name a few).
Special features: Almost all new waffle makers are nonstick, which we prefer. Some have a special rotary function that flips the filled waffle maker over, ensuring even browning on both the top and the bottom (only available in round). Others have browning controls that let you select just how golden you want your waffles. If youre worried about dripping batter, there are models that have a no-drip feature that catches any escaping batter before it hits your countertop. There are also multipurpose models that come with removable, interchangeable plates made for waffles or sandwiches.
Stovetop waffle irons: These are just as varied as their electric cousins. While we didnt test any of our waffles using a hand-held model, theyre worth mentioning for those out there with a pioneer spirit. Look for dark nonstick metal — its less prone to sticking. Also look for flat handles that allow the waffle iron to remain flush along your stovetop (be sure to watch out for hot handles, and use a towel or oven mitt for safety).
Cooking (waffling): Because there are so many waffle maker shapes and sizes, its important to remember that yields and timing will vary depending on the model. Most waffle makers can hold anywhere from 1/2 to 3/4 cup batter per waffle. If youre interested in exploring the diversity of your waffle maker and want to make delicious foods like grilled cheese, quesadillas, French toast and pizza (yes, its possible), then remember bigger is usually better.
Cleaning: Be sure to check the manufacturers cleaning instructions first. Allow your waffle maker to cool completely before cleaning. A damp washcloth for the exterior works just fine. Try wrapping a chopstick in a paper towel and running it through the grates to soak up grease. A Teflon waffle brush or a plain old pastry brush works great for kicking out crumbs. If your model comes with removable plates, wash them in warm, soapy water and let them air dry.
Whatever the shape or size of your waffle maker, enjoy and have fun. And remember that waffles freeze well. Keep them in resealable plastic bags for up to one month.
Get all 12 waffled recipes, plus eight more classic and creative waffles, and come back to FN Dish all week for more on our waffle adventures. We’ll take you behind the scenes of the project, unveil some waffle fails and share tips for maximizing your waffle maker.
Waffle Size: The average round waffle maker makes a 7-inch waffle. Belgian waffle makers typically produce waffles in 4-inch squares or 4-inch by 7-inch rectangles. Cone maker grids measure 10-inches square or larger.
After clicking through our 12 Favorite Foods Totally Transformed with a Waffle Iron and Classic and Creative Waffle Recipes, you may find yourself in the market for a waffle maker. But before you run out and make your purchase, there are some important things to consider: Are you more of a classic waffler, or are you a bit more on the adventurous side? If classic is your go-to, then pick a waffle maker based on your favorite shape and thickness. If youre looking to get creative, then consider a larger model, like a four-slice Belgian-style waffle maker — youll have more room to play!
Whatever the shape or size of your waffle maker, enjoy and have fun. And remember that waffles freeze well. Keep them in resealable plastic bags for up to one month.
Special features: Almost all new waffle makers are nonstick, which we prefer. Some have a special rotary function that flips the filled waffle maker over, ensuring even browning on both the top and the bottom (only available in round). Others have browning controls that let you select just how golden you want your waffles. If youre worried about dripping batter, there are models that have a no-drip feature that catches any escaping batter before it hits your countertop. There are also multipurpose models that come with removable, interchangeable plates made for waffles or sandwiches.
Cleaning: Be sure to check the manufacturers cleaning instructions first. Allow your waffle maker to cool completely before cleaning. A damp washcloth for the exterior works just fine. Try wrapping a chopstick in a paper towel and running it through the grates to soak up grease. A Teflon waffle brush or a plain old pastry brush works great for kicking out crumbs. If your model comes with removable plates, wash them in warm, soapy water and let them air dry.
Shapes and sizes: Once youve decided on classic (thin) or Belgian-style (thick), there are plenty of shapes to choose from. Both the classic and Belgian come in traditional round and square, but there are plenty of other shapes to choose from: hearts, animals, sticks and pops (just to name a few).
A thick, fluffy, 7-1/4-inch-diameter Belgian waffle is already divided into four sections and ready to be shared when it comes out of this handsome waffle maker. Thats because the grids dividers are high enough to separate the sections. The grids are nonstick, meaning they readily release the four-piece waffle and easily wipe clean. A ready light shines when the waffle maker is properly heated to accept the batter and shines again when the waffle is cooked. With its chrome housing and stay-cool black synthetic handles, this 650-watt appliance looks great on the counter. Afterward, the cord wraps around the hinge, plus you can stand the waffle maker upright for compact storage.
The Best Electric Waffle Maker for All Your Brunch Needs
FAQ
What is the size of a regular waffle?
What is the difference between a Belgian waffle maker and a regular waffle maker?
What is the diameter of a Belgian waffle?
How do I choose a good waffle maker?
What is a standard waffle maker?
Standard waffle makers are known for their utilitarian design and are often lightweight and easy to handle, making them perfect for establishments with limited counter space. They are also easy to store when they aren’t in use, saving space in the kitchen. 2. Belgian Waffle Maker Belgian waffle makers are known for their deep grid patterns.
How much does a round waffle maker weigh?
This round waffle maker is made of stainless steel and weighs just three pounds but does not skimp on the extras. It only makes one waffle at a time, but each one is large with four ready-to-cut sections. Seven adjustable shade settings allow you to toast your waffle exactly to your tastes.
How many types of waffles are there?
Waffle tests: In the Belgian waffle makers, we made all three waffle types: American, Americanized-Belgian, and traditional Belgian. In the American waffle makers, we made Americanized-Belgian and American-style waffles. We made the same type of waffle in at least three makers simultaneously, so we could compare the waffles directly.
How much does a waffle maker cost?
A waffle maker varies in cost, depending on the size and features you want. Our picks for 2021’s best waffle makers range in price from around $15 to more than $275, but there are many other models available at different price points to fit your specific needs.