The Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker is our best waffle maker and this one has a total of 5 settings for browning. It also comes with dual indicator lights that signal when the waffle is ready and it is very compact in storing due to the stands on the end. The sleek look of the brushed stainless steel is a beauty for any kitchen setting. The nonskid rubber feet help to keep the unit steady as the waffle cooks. You can use a variety of toppings such as maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce, berries, chopped almonds, ice cream, yogurt and many more.
Our step-up pick is the Presto 03510 FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker and it can be locked in place for convenient waffle making. Also, the flip side mechanism is very smooth and easy to operate. It has a total of 4 sections that are easy to cut. Also, the grid is very thick on this waffle maker so you can conveniently use it even if you are a beginner at waffle making. It can bake a 7-inch Belgian waffle in a matter of minutes. It is totally ideal for baking Belgian waffles.
The budget pick is the Oster CKSTWF2000 Stainless-Steel Belgian Waffle Maker and it has a round baking plate which measures 8 inches across. It is also an ideal Belgian waffle maker for those who want to spend less for a waffle maker. Moreover, the handles are also nonstick so they are easy to clean up. You can adjust the temperature so you get a personalized touch when it comes to baking waffles just the way you want, whether it’s extra crispy or light and fluffy. The stainless steel housing adds durability to this budget waffle maker.
A Little Background
Before we head on to the topic, let us know more about waffles and its origins, history and other info.
Waffles are tasty breakfast items that most people around the world enjoy. Waffles are baked batter from eggs, sugar and all other things that make up most breads and the like. The only thing that makes a waffle unique is that it is crispy outside but tender inside. There are usually two types of standard waffles: the classic waffle and the Belgian waffle, which differ in thickness. Nonetheless, waffles are meant to be either a breakfast item or a dessert when topped off with sweets and fruits. They are very delicious and nutritious and any person can make them with just a few steps to follow.
Like pancakes, waffles can be enjoyed topped with a variety of flavors, such as maple syrups, butter and the like. Maple syrups and other syrups can be poured over the waffle to make it tastier and you can also go for other flavors as well such as chocolate and strawberry. Butter and whipped cream can also be served with the finished waffles. The presentation and the taste of the waffles all depend on the ingredients you choose and the way you prepare them. Waffles can be quite delicate so you have to prepare these ingredients carefully so you do not ruin the quality of the waffles you have just baked.
You can even add fruits such as berries as well as whipped cream for a stylish yet healthy breakfast or dessert. If you are someone who wants to cut down on the sugar and calories, you can add fruits to give off a healthy breakfast meal or as a dessert. Fruits will always add nutritional value to any meal or snack. This is no different from most desserts – except you top it off a crispy outside and tender inside waffle.
Waffle making is a very rewarding process at the kitchen but requires a lot of patience to make and equal measuring so that your waffle does not stick or fail. Waffles can overflow if you pour too much batter and this can be frustrating for those who are newcomers to making waffles in the kitchen. Because they are baked goods, waffles expand as they bake inside the waffle maker which can be frustrating. While muffins and pies are okay because they are free on the top part, waffles are sandwiched in between a lid and a nonstick pan and this makes it quite difficult in the event that you accidentally put too much batter on your waffle maker.
Waffles are trickier to make than pancakes because they cook in a sandwiched way. As we said, unlike flat laying open cooking pancakes, waffles are sandwiched together so they do not have a lot of room to expand. If you think oven-baked muffins and pies have the tendency to overflow, think again – waffles are a lot harder and messier than that. This is why you need to be careful when measuring ingredients.
There are tendencies that the waffle might overflow if you do not measure the waffle batter and its contents well. This is why you need to measure the exact amount of batter and ingredients before preparing the batter for your waffle maker. In some cases, the manufacturer of the waffle maker also has instructions as to how much batter you should make to create the perfect waffles every time.
Nonetheless, aside from the equal amount of waffle batter and content that you put in, it is also important that you get a sturdy and reliable waffle maker. Always follow the recipe of the waffle that you will create so that you will not run into any problems later when it comes to baking the waffle within the waffle maker. You should also consult someone who has baked waffles before, such as your aunt, your mom or your friend, if you don’t have a lot of experience when it comes to making waffles.
Waffle makers are easy to use but it can be tricky if you are making waffles for the first time. This is why you might also need to watch tutorial videos on YouTube or check out recipe books, online recipes and the like. But of course, nothing beats trial and error and baking with someone special to your such as a family member or a close friend. Waffle making is not really as easy as it looks but it can be rewarding.
If you or your kids want to enjoy a healthy breakfast, you should definitely reward yourself with a waffle maker in making fun and colorful waffles that are rewardingly tasty. Waffle making can be more than just a hobby – some people purchase a waffle maker to make a business out of it. You can sell waffles like most food trucks and food carts do at fairs or at the park. Waffles are greatly enjoyable by any age bracket or culture because of its yummy taste and crispiness as well as inner tenderness.
How We Picked
When choosing the best waffle maker, we kept in mind the following so that you can have more value for your money:
Nonstick – the nonstick quality of a waffle maker refers to its ability to keep the batter from sticking to the waffle. If it does stick then that means you might need to add more butter. However, this is not really a problem because all waffle makers are nonstick – you just need to look for the one with the best nonstick quality.
Sleek design – this is also part of the qualities of the best waffle maker that you should consider. Not only should it be presentable but it should also be easy to clean. Most waffle makers are stainless steel and have handles that are cool to touch.
Safety – as we said, the handles should not get hot and therefore they should be made from plastic or similar material that will not melt due to the heating of the waffle maker. There should be indicator lights that tell you when you need to put in the batter (pre-heating) and when the waffles are ready. A nonskid base for the waffle maker is also ideal to keep it stable as you pour in batter.
Convenience – most waffle makers are already equally divided so you can get up to 4 waffles in one go. If you want a mess-free waffle maker then you should get one with a thick depth so that the tendency to overflow is very minimal. Some waffle makers also come with measurement indicators so that you do not have to worry about your waffle batter overflowing and creating a mess in the kitchen.
Adjustability – the waffle maker should be set to a variety of temperature controls so you can also control the crispiness, the browning and the fluffiness of the waffle, depending on how you want it.
Compact storage – most waffle makers have a compact cord wrap mechanism underneath. The waffle maker should also be able to stand straight vertically when stored inside a cabinet without falling over or opening accidentally to avoid getting things inside the baking pan.
Our Pick
Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker
Our best waffle maker is the Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker and this waffle maker runs on 120 volts of power. When it comes down to adjusting your waffle’s crispiness or fluffiness, it has a total of 5 settings for browning. This waffle maker is ideal for baking classic waffles so it is enjoyable for those who absolutely love classic waffles.
When it comes to its signaling features, it comes with dual indicator lights that signal when the waffle is ready. The Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker is available in red and silver colors and it is very compact in storing due to the stands on the end considering the size and the storage ability. A total of 4 quarters surround the round cook plate that is also nonstick when it comes down to its construction.
You don’t have to worry about the lid accidentally opening up while baking because of the fact that the lid does not rise while baking due to being weighted just right. And in addition to those convenient features, the nonskid rubber feet helps to keep the unit steady as the waffle cooks.
What’s more, the indicator lights emit green or red so you know when the waffle is ready to be filled with batter or when the waffles are ready. The Cuisinart Classic Waffle Maker comes with a regulating thermostat for maintaining constant temperature. On the appearance, the sleek look of the brushed stainless steel is a beauty for any kitchen setting.
As for the storage convenience, the cord can be stored easily under the unit for a clean storage mechanism. As a matter of fact, with this waffle maker, you can use a variety of toppings such as maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce, berries, chopped almonds, ice cream, yogurt and many more. Moreover, the waffle maker also comes with a recipe book and instructions on how to use the unit. Enjoy and get baking quality with the waffle maker by Cuisinart!
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
Every item has a downside, especially if it is a kitchen unit such as the Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker. For instance, waffle making is quite meticulous and requires some skill and technique to employ. Also, the waffle maker is not very ideal for making smaller sized waffles.
Step-up Pick
Presto 03510 FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker
For those who want a pricier deal for the best waffle maker, check out our step-up pick, the Presto 03510 FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker. It is super ideal for baking Belgian waffles and it has a total of 4 sections that are easy to cut when it comes to construction. Durability and flexibility is uncompromised because of the fact that the flip side mechanism is very smooth and easy to operate.
When it comes to storing this waffle maker when finished baking, the vertical position is a space saver when you store it when not in use. In addition to that, the waffle maker can be locked in place for convenient waffle making. But what makes this waffle maker unique? Well, for instance the dual function base makes the waffle maker easy to rotate when needed.
Durability is nonetheless awesome because of the fact that the brushed stainless steel adds to the magnificent finish of the exterior of the waffle maker. And in addition to its flexibility, the rotating design is very superb compared to most run-down waffle makers.
All in all, the Presto Belgian Waffle Maker can bake a 7-inch Belgian waffle in a matter of minutes. Moreover, it comes with a timer that counts down until your baked waffle is ready using the digital display signals so you get convenient accuracy in the long run. And in addition, the grid is very thick on this waffle maker so you can conveniently use it even if you are a beginner at waffle making.
This waffle maker by Presto can flip up to 180 degrees for superior batter spreading without much fail. What’s more, the design of the waffle maker ensures you get a tender inside and crispy outside baked waffle. Its interior is also easy to clean due to being nonstick, like most standard waffle makers. As it is Teflon, you should only clean it with a dry paper towel.
Budget Pick
Oster CKSTWF2000 Stainless-Steel Belgian Waffle Maker
If you don’t have a lot of money for a waffle maker, you can go for our budget pick – the Oster CKSTWF2000 Stainless-Steel Belgian Waffle Maker. This waffle maker is superb – the stainless steel housing adds durability to this budget waffle maker. In addition to that, it has a round baking plate which measures 8 inches across.
On informing you about the status of your waffle, the indicator lights signify whether the device is on or it is ready to serve the waffle. For a fully customized baking experience, you can adjust the temperature so you get a personalized touch when it comes to baking waffles just the way you want, whether it’s extra crispy or light and fluffy. In addition to that, the handles are very cool to touch so it’s not a problem if you are in a hurry.
Likewise, the handles are also nonstick so they are easy to clean up. Moreover, this waffle maker by Oster is also an ideal Belgian waffle maker for those who want to spend less for a waffle maker. It has been wired for use on 120 volts and it can bake a waffle up to 7.5 inches so it is a great buy. Moreover, it can also be stored vertically and does not open up while in place so it is super convenient. Did you know that aside from waffles, you can also make egg omelets, brownies and the like for this waffle maker? So it is also a breakfast maker in the long run.
Best 4-Piece Waffle Maker
Hamilton Beach 4-Piece Belgian Waffle Maker
For our best four-piece waffle maker, we chose the Hamilton Beach 4-Piece Belgian Waffle Maker. This one can be stored upright and in a compact way and it can make up to 4 waffles in just one go due to the four-piece construction, making it a super convenient waffle maker.
Its grids are nonstick and are easy to clean so you get hassle-free time in the kitchen. Moreover, durability-wise, the stainless steel and classic black design looks good for any kitchen and stands durable for many years of use.
Like most waffle makers, indicator lights tell you when to add the batter and when the power is on. In addition to that, the results of this waffle maker are ultra rich, thick and fluffy waffles ready to be served so you get more value for your money or use it for home or business use. This awesome waffle maker by Hamilton can bake waffles within 4 to 5 minutes, in which each waffle measures 4 by 5 inches and measures 10 by 8.5 inches when put all together. Moreover, like any standard waffle, you can also add maple syrup, melted butter and the like.
Best 3-in-1 Waffle Maker, Grill and Griddle
BLACK+DECKER G48TD 3-in-1 Waffle Maker Grill/Griddle
Black and Decker is more than just about power tools – they also provide 3-in-1 solutions to kitchen needs, such as the BLACK+DECKER G48TD 3-in-1 Waffle Maker Grill/Griddle. This unique waffle maker has a grease catcher mechanism which is in the form of runoff channels so you can cook healthier food aside from waffles. The most unique thing about this waffle maker is the fact that this one can make waffles as well as grill food and also act as a griddle.
Like any waffle maker, it can be conveniently used indoors so it is perfect for both grilling and baking. The BLACK+DECKER Waffle Maker Grill/Griddle can make sandwiches, waffles, eggs, bacons and any other breakfast meal. Its grill plates are reversible so you can modify this 3-in-1 unit in a breeze. What’s more, it also has variable control for temperatures so you can modify and personalize your cooking or baking experience using the temperature dial.
As for the safety features, its handles are also cool to touch so it’s not a problem when you need to cook breakfast right away. In addition, the plates are also removable. Moreover, you get three amazing appliances for the price of one with this unique waffle maker by Black and Decker.
When you intend to use it for bacon and eggs, it has a cooking surface of 8 inches x 2. And what’s more, the grill plates are also nonstick so you don’t have to maintain them a lot. Convenient and compact, this unit measures 5 by 11 so it can be stored easily. And because of that, it can also be used while camping or RV living on the go. It is currently backed by a warranty of 2 years (limited) and it is a great way to cook breakfast or make waffles.
Best Double Waffle Maker
Conair WMK600 Double Belgian Waffle Maker
The Conair WMK600 Double Belgian Waffle Maker is an ideal double waffle maker for mass production purposes which comes with two LED indicator lights to signify when the waffle is ready. Unlike other waffle makers, this one can notify you when the waffles are done using 3 audio beep tones. For those who like to cook two at once, you get two waffle pans with this one unit so you can cook two at the same time.
This waffle maker makes use of 1,400 watts of power and it is also very easy to clean due to the nonstick waffle grids. Furthermore, the waffle pockets are quite deep at 1 inch each and it also has a control knob for browning the waffles. The Conair Belgian Waffle Maker also has a rotary feature so you can bake the bottom and top more evenly. What’s more, you can easily top off with whipped cream, ice cream, fruits, syrup and the like after baking. Being backed by a warranty of 1 year, the Conair Waffle Maker is a great deal of a kitchen unit to consider.
Best Belgian Waffle Maker
Proctor Silex Belgian Style Waffle Maker
The Proctor Silex Belgian Style Waffle Maker is very easy to clean due to the nonstick grids and is an ideal Belgian waffle maker. Its browning settings can be adjusted with a simple knob. It also does not drip because of the deep grid design so you get a mess-free waffle making experience. It also has a batter cup which has been pre-measured so you won’t have to worry about the batter overflowing.
This unit comes with indicator lights for power and when it is ready and it is perfect for those who are quite meticulous with waffle making and do not like the hassle of overflowing waffle batter in their kitchen. Moreover, it can cook waffles from 5 to 8 minutes. You can easily clean this waffle maker with any damp cloth after using. It cooks waffles from 4 to 6 inches and it can also be stored upright and does not open when it’s there. Moreover, it also has cup nests for easy storage.
Unique Waffle Maker with Mickey Mouse Design
Disney DCM-9 Mickey Mini Waffle Maker
A great waffle maker for preparing breakfast for your kids, the Disney DCM-9 Mickey Mini Waffle Maker is a fun waffle maker to consider. The rubber feet add stability to the waffle maker and the cord can be wrapped easily under this waffle maker. This kitchen unit runs on 120 volts of power at 500 watts. In addition, the baking plate is also nonstick so it is easy to clean.
This cute waffle maker makes cute little Mickey Mouse shaped waffles every time. The baked waffles measure around 1.5 inches in diameter each. It is truly a unique waffle maker to consider for your children.
Best Stainless Steel Waffle Maker
Westinghouse WWM1SSA Select-Series Stainless-Steel Waffle Maker
For the best stainless steel waffle maker, the Westinghouse WWM1SSA Select-Series Stainless-Steel Waffle Maker is your best bet. The easy cleanup is due to the nonstick coated plates of the waffle maker. It runs on 120 volts of power at 1,080 watts and it can be stored easily on any shelf or cabinet due to the cord storage system that makes storing very convenient.
The design is very sleek due to the stainless steel housing which also promotes durability and style. The temperature control is very easy to set up so you get the perfect waffle results. Moreover, there are power and ready light indicators so you know when the waffle is ready to cook or ready to serve. Ideal for making classic waffles, the Westinghouse Stainless-Steel Waffle Maker is an amazing waffle maker.
Best Cone Waffle Maker
Chef’s Choice 838 Waffle Cone Express
The Chef’s Choice 838 Waffle Cone Express can make sugar cone waffles in a matter of minutes. It measures 8 by 3 inches and it is also ultra thick because of its 10-inch depth. It also has a color selection control for customized waffle cones and it also uses instant temperature recovery for convenience. Likewise, it also comes with recipes and cone rolling forms. The waffle plate has a diameter of 7 inches across so it is great for making perfect waffles.
The Competition
Other waffle makers out there did not have anything special about them. We only picked those with special features that make them stand out from the rest of the waffle makers.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Got something in mind about waffles and waffle makers? Here are some FAQs to consider.
Q: How healthy are waffles in general?
A: According to Livestrong , you get a lot of whole grain, which is important for keeping you strong and healthy against maor diseases. The whole grain is also friendly towards your digestive system. Moreover, waffles are very healthy when it comes to vitamins, calories and fiber content. Waffles also contain omega-3 fatty acids which are good for the heart. Because waffles contain little fatty oil, it is very healthy for your overall nutrition and health. If you cut down the sugar, you can also make a healthy waffle recipe.
Q: What are some of the tips to make the best waffles?
A: You should take good care of your waffle maker and never operate it the wrong way. Do not spray the waffle maker with any nonstick coating unless the waffle maker manufacturer permits you to do so. Add a lot of butter or oil so that your waffles do not stick to the pan.
It is a great idea to separate yolks and egg whites to get fluffy waffles. Always practice smooth mixing when preparing batter for your waffle. Most people also do not use buttermilk for their waffles and use a substitute such as vinegar or lemon juice. Always follow the waffle maker’s light indicators so you do not mess up your waffles. Only bake enough waffles that you can eat or serve and make sure you always clean the waffle maker after it cools down.
Wrapping It Up
Overall, the Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker is our best waffle maker whether you are a casual waffle maker, a beginner or someone who wants to start a waffle business.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.