What are the best waffle makers?
Whether topped with fruit or combined with savory foods, waffles are a popular treat. In fact, waffles are loved by so many people that we now celebrate them on National Waffle Day. On August 24, everyone will pull out their trusty waffle maker and pass the syrup.
While restaurant waffles are hard to beat, nothing compares to enjoying a fluffy waffle from the comfort of your kitchen. So if you want to celebrate National Waffle Day without leaving your house, check out these waffle irons.
What to consider when choosing a waffle maker
Style
Classic waffle maker
Standard American waffles are made with a classic waffle iron. They are thin with an even texture on the surface and are denser and crispier than other styles.
belgian waffle maker
Those who like a fluffy but thick waffle will prefer a Belgian waffle maker. Its telltale sign is deep pockets. These are best for holding more syrup, strawberries, or any other toppings.
Waffle Maker Features
Form
The two main shapes of waffles are square and round. However, some waffle makers come in unique shapes, like a heart, unicorn, or trucks. They can also have fun designs, including a rabbit or a dinosaur.
Ability
Standard waffle irons generally produce one waffle at a time. If you need more capacity, rotary waffle makers often make two at a time, and some square waffle makers produce up to four at a time. However, it’s important to keep in mind that a larger capacity often means it takes up more counter and storage space.
Hotplates
When considering griddles, it is essential to look at the depth of the grid and whether it is non-stick or not. The depth of the grid creates a thicker waffle with deeper pockets to hold more filling. Non-stick plates prevent waffles from sticking or tearing and allow for faster cleanup with less friction.
The best waffle makers
Budget
Mini Dash Waffle Maker
For a single person or a kitchen with limited space, consider this 4-inch miniature waffle maker. The interior is completely non-stick, making cleanup convenient and quick. Not only does it come in a variety of color options, but it also has unique designs to choose from, including bunny, pineapple, pumpkin, or traditional waffle squares.
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Oster Belgian Waffle Maker
Those who like extra toppings or syrup will appreciate this Belgian waffle maker, which has deep pockets to hold a ton of strawberries, chocolate chips, or whipped cream. 8-inch non-stick plates allow for quick cleanup. The adjustable temperature is ideal for cooking different types of pasta.
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Chefman Spill-Proof Belgian Waffle Maker
Designed with a wrap-around channel, this waffle maker reduces spillover mess by catching excess batter. Additional features include a shade selector to choose from seven cooking levels and extra strong non-stick plates. For those with limited space, this waffle maker can also be stored vertically in small areas.
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Bella Classic Rotating Non-Stick Belgian Waffle Maker
Although it’s a single waffle maker, it can bake up to four waffles in just 10 minutes, producing restaurant-style 1-inch waffles right from your kitchen. With a rotating design and browning control dial, waffles will be baked evenly and evenly every time. Plus, the nonstick coating is PFOA-free and the drip tray is dishwasher safe.
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Midrange
Presto Belgian Waffle Bowl
National Waffle Day celebrates waffles of all types, including waffle bowls. This machine produces a 4-inch-thick waffle bowl, ready to be filled with ice cream, fruit, sausage, or your other favorite topping. The non-stick coating helps the waffle come out easily and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Hamilton Beach Non-Stick 4 Slice Belgian Waffle Maker
To make lots of waffles at once, consider this Belgian waffle maker that produces four at a time. It’s simple to use, with an indicator light to show when it’s time to add the batter and when the waffles are ready. Plus, it’s compact, folds up, and can be stored flat or upright in tight spaces.
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Black+Decker Rotary Waffle Maker
This sleek, all-black waffle maker looks great in any kitchen. Its rotating design allows batter to be evenly distributed, producing fluffy, evenly baked waffles every time. Additional features include a drip tray to keep counters clean, plates with a durable nonstick coating, and deep racks to produce thick, restaurant-quality waffles.
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Presto Stuffler Stuffed Waffle Maker
After eating a stuffed waffle, you will never go back to a regular waffle maker. The Stuffler creates waffles with baked toppings inside, pie filling, fresh fruit, chocolate, cheese, pepperoni and more. While the waffles are thick, the rotating design ensures even baking over and over again. Plus, each stuffed waffle only takes a few minutes.
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Top of the line
Krups belgian waffle maker
Families can bake four waffles at once, all with deep pockets to hold a mountain of toppings. This waffle maker features five browning levels, red and green indicator lights, and removable, dishwasher-safe plates for easy cleanup. Storage is also convenient with the lockable lid and roll-up cord.
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Cuisinart Dual Rotating Waffle Maker
This rotating waffle maker makes two round Belgian waffles at a time with 1 inch deep batter pockets. Convenience features include a six-setting browning control, LED indicator lights and non-stick coating. It also comes with a cup for batter and a 36-inch power cord for accessibility.
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Cuisinart WAF-300P1 Belgian Waffle Maker
For professional quality waffles at home, opt for this Belgian waffle maker. It makes four thick waffles at a time with non-stick grids that come off easily. Indicator lights signal when it’s ready to bake or ready to eat, and this machine also comes with dishwasher-safe crepe plates.
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Breville The Smart Waffle Pro 2 Slice Waffle Maker
With smart automation dials, users can perfectly cook classic, Belgian, chocolate or buttermilk waffles. This waffle maker features 12 browning settings for individual preferences, a no-mess ditch to keep batter from spilling onto countertops, and an even pro thermal heat to evenly distribute heat across baking sheets.
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Bre Richey written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.
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