Cooking Time Journal may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. This comes at no additional cost to you, and all the prices and availability are accurate at the time of publishing.
Do you love the smell of fresh waffles in the morning? If you think it’s time to get out the maple syrup and banana to start the day, you’ll also need a waffle maker. This classic kitchen appliance continues to be popular in households across the country, and technology means they’re better than ever. It no longer has to be complicated or take ages; you can make delicious waffles in only a few minutes with minimal effort.
Let’s dive in and take a look at the best classic waffle makers you can choose for your home.
Table of Contents
The Best Waffle Makers: Our List
We’ve found our top waffle makers out there on the market. We’ve taken the time to review them, bringing the best features to your attention. Let’s check them out.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 |
1. All-Clad WD700162
|
Check Price |
 |
2. Breville BWM520XL
|
Check Price |
 |
3. Cuisinart WMR-CA
|
Check Price |
 |
4. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1
|
Check Price |
 |
5. Chef’sChoice 854
|
Check Price |
 |
6. Chef’sChoice 852
|
Check Price |
 |
7. Chef’sChoice 840
|
Check Price |
All-Clad WD700162 Stainless Steel Classic Round Waffle Maker
The All-Clad waffle maker is contemporary, easy-to-use and cooks up some delicious waffles. If you like crispy waffles that are also fluffy on the inside, this one is the one for you with its steam-release system.
You can cook up round-shaped, classic waffles whenever you want. They’re a good size for a filling breakfast, measuring 6.5 inches in diameter and they’re 0.5 inches thick. If you’re in a hurry, they cook with four easy-cut sections. You can still customize your waffles, with seven browning levels. Simply turn the dial to get exactly what you want – light golden or dark brown. You’ve got the ready lights so you’re good to go and you can pour in your batter. We also like that this one has audible signals too so you don’t overcook your breakfast. The non-stick plates are ideal for quick cleaning.
Made from polished stainless steel, this model looks and feels good. It’s compact and modern, with a locking latch for storage. It doesn’t take up much space.
Pros:
- Audible signals for cooking.
- Seven browning settings for a personalized taste.
- Durable stainless-steel design.
Cons:
- Only makes one waffle at a time.
Breville BWM520XL Round Waffle Waffle Maker
Breville is a popular player in the kitchen appliance world and they don’t disappoint with this waffle maker. You can look forward to customizing your waffles, non-stick surface for easy cleaning and a durable construction. We’d say the quality matches the price tag.
It has helpful power and ready lights so you know when to begin cooking. With seven browning settings, you can simply turn the dial for a golden waffle. The non-stick plates are PFOA-free for safety and to make sure no waffles burn onto the surface.
It’s designed for even heat distribution, with die-cast aluminum cooking plates. You can make one large round waffle or four snack-size ones with the plate outlines.
Have you poured too much batter into the waffle maker? No problem; this model has a wrap-around moat. This is designed to catch any spills and overflow so there are no messy clean-ups. Plus, there’s no waste as it’s still cooked. It’s a lot deeper than other run-off channels we’ve seen.
The construction is solid, made from stainless steel with a strong handle to press down. It’s compact and won’t take up much space on your countertop. You can hide it away when not in use, with the locking mechanism holding it together. It’s contemporary and You can choose between a cranberry red or silver design to accessorize with your kitchen.
Pros:
- Wrap-around moat for spills and run-off batter.
- Four easy-cut sections.
- Seven browning settings for perfect waffle.
Cons:
- Doesn’t make sounds when waffles are ready.
Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker
If affordability is your main priority, we’d direct you to this waffle maker from Cuisinart. But don’t be fooled; it still offers you some fantastic features, including browning settings, non-stick plates and a regulating thermostat.
This is a traditional style waffle maker, creating a round, 7-inch treat. It’s easy to cut into four quarters with the outlined plates, so you could share it as a snack. You won’t have to wait long, with a regulating thermostat cooking batter in around two to three minutes. There are red and green light signals so you know when it’s ready. The waffle will release easily thanks to the non-stick cooking plates. We love that it has an overflow channel to catch any excess batter.
There’s a horizontal dial you can push to control the color of your waffle. The five browning settings provide variety so everyone can enjoy them. The weighted lid encourages even heat distribution and cooking, with a latch on it for storage. All of the plastic is BPA-free for healthy food.
Storage isn’t a concern with this compact waffle maker. It’s lightweight and easy to tuck into a small space. It also has a cord storage department; just wrap it around so it doesn’t get caught on anything. Another good feature is the rubber feet – it won’t make your countertop. The brushed stainless-steel housing looks good and makes it durable. A three-year warranty is included for peace of mind.
Pros:
- Fast cooking in two to three minutes.
- Compact and easy to store.
- Five browning settings for customization.
Cons:
- No texture control feature.
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Waffle Maker
Do you love a full breakfast or are you hosting at your home? we’d recommend the versatile BLACK+DECKER waffle maker. This is a 3-in-1 kitchen appliance that’s going to make everything from eggs to waffles. It’s a grill, griddle and waffle maker thanks to its reversible plates.
We’re impressed with the construction of this one. It’s well-built and durable, with a 180-degree hinge. This means that the plates can open and lie flat; allowing cooking on both sides. We’re talking about making eight square waffles at once, which means no waiting around when you’re hosting. The plates are non-stick for simplicity and they are removable for cleaning up. Of course, you will need more countertop space for this one and it isn’t as easy to store due to its size.
You can vary the temperature from low to high using the dial for the ideal waffle color. The power indicator light lets you know when you can load in your batter. The run-off channels are beneficial for avoiding greasy food and you can simply pour out excess oils and batter. The extensive two-year warranty is exactly what you need for peace of mind.
Pros:
- 3-in-1 cooking appliance.
- Cook up to eight waffles with a 180-degree hinge.
- Run-off channel for grease and batter.
Cons:
- Larger design takes up more countertop space.
Chef’sChoice 854
With a brand name like Chef’sChoice, you probably have high expectations. We’d say this one is a good choice, offering fast baking, color control and easy storage options.
If you’re running late for work, you don’t have to skip breakfast. This waffle maker only takes around three minutes to bake your batter. So, you can grab waffles and have them on the go. You don’t have to stand around and watch; there’s a beeper that signals they’re ready. The LED indicator lights are also handy so you know when to pour in your batter.
The square waffles are on the small side at four inches. But since you can bake four at once, this makes up for it. You also have control over the temperature of the plates and you can use the texture button to make the perfect meal or dessert.
Non-stick plates are a must and this waffle maker has them. You’ll be thankful for this when you’re cleaning up. The only thing that lets this one down is batter could pour from the sides and create a mess.
The design of this model is sturdy and it has a classic square style. The handle is substantial and it has a latch. It weighs 7.04 pounds and the built-in cord storage compartment means you can tidy it away into a cupboard when not in use. There’s a one-year warranty included with purchase.
Pros:
- Fast cooking in under three minutes.
- Cooks four waffles at a time.
- Color and texture control.
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature a full overflow channel.
Chef’sChoice 852
If you’re new to baking waffles at home, this Chef’sChoice waffle maker is a good one to start with. It has an affordable price tag, along with adjustable baking controls and instant heat recovery. This means waffles to suit your taste and quick cooking if you don’t have a lot of time.
It only takes around two minutes for your waffles to be ready. The heating indicator light shows you when to pour in your batter, and you can choose your preferred heat on the dial. The 900-watt, instant heat recovery system means you can keep cooking for several people. There’s a floating hinge for good thickness and non-stick coated plates for cleaning up afterward.
This model is lightweight at 5.16 pounds. The stainless steel and black plastic design look good in any kitchen. It has a built-in cord for storage, making it good for small cupboards. You’ll receive a one-year limited warranty.
Pros:
- Floating hinge for the ideal thickness.
- Instant heat recovery for continuous cooking.
- Lightweight and easy to store.
Cons:
- Only makes two waffles at a time.
Chef’sChoice 840
Another waffle maker from Chef’sChoice makes the list. This time, it’s for affordability, exceptionally quick baking and fun cooking plates. It’s a good all-rounder.
The first thing you’ll notice about this Chef’sChoice waffle maker is the unique heart-shaped plates. It’s a novelty for children and it bakes five waffles for the whole family to enjoy. Alternatively, you can enjoy one six-inch scalloped waffle – you decide!
This one is the quickest waffle maker on our list. It only takes around 90 seconds for the perfect meal; who said making your own waffles took too long in the morning? The Quad baking system means you can customize your waffle when it comes to texture and color. There’s a switch to personalize the texture; choose deep bake mode for brown or crisp exterior setting for a moist inside. This machine is powered by 1100 watts, with instant temperature recovery and a floating top baking plate. The ready lights and beeper guide you through the baking process.
Don’t worry about putting in too much batter; the overflow channel will catch it and make cleaning a lot easier.
When it comes to storage, you won’t have to worry. It has a built-in cord storage compartment and only weighs 4.6 pounds. A one-year limited warranty is included.
Pros:
- Always ready to go with instant temperature recovery.
- Quad baking system for choosing texture and color.
- Overflow channel for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- May create thinner waffles than desired.
What to Look for In a Waffle Maker
All brands create different waffle maker models; some are budget options, while others have all the latest, fancy technology. We’ve highlighted some of the questions you should ask when you’re looking at a waffle maker so you make the right decision.
How Many Waffles It Makes
If you’ve got a hungry family to feed, a waffle maker that only makes one at a time isn’t going to be good. Some models can make up to four at once, which can suit your household. Of course, you’ll need to remember that the more waffles it can make, the more storage it’s likely going to require.
How Fast It Cooks
Some waffle makers heat up faster than others and cook the batter quicker too. It can take anywhere from 90 seconds to five minutes for your waffles to be ready. If you’ve got a lot to make for your family, you can look out for a model with a regulating thermostat or heat recovery system. This makes sure the temperature is maintained at a good level for continuous cooking.
How Many Browning Settings It Has
Let’s be honest, we all like waffles cooked a certain way. With browning settings, you can customize your waffles to get them as golden or crispy as you want. Multiple browning settings is best to suit everyone in your household. You’ll find good models have around five to eight settings. There are even some waffle makers that include texture settings if you’re particular about the taste of your waffles.
How Easy Cleaning Is
While everybody wants to eat the waffles, nobody really wants to do the cleaning up. That’s why it’s best to look for a model that makes this as easy as possible. Non-stick plates are preferable, as they have a coating to prevent batter burning onto them. You won’t have to use any elbow grease. Some waffle makers may even have removable plates for easy cleaning.
Another beneficial feature is run-off moats and overflow channels. These surround the waffle plates, catching any excess batter. It’s going to mean you don’t have to clean the hot batter off your countertop, saving you time and effort.
The Difference Between Traditional and Belgian Waffle Makers
Believe it or not, there’s a difference between a traditional and Belgian waffler. This means the makers are different too. Let’s start with the traditional or ‘American’ style waffles. They tend to be thinner and more versatile for breakfast, usually circular in shape. They typically have a denser batter and they heat up quickly. This means that the waffle maker will be more compact, round and cook quickly.
Next is Belgian waffles. You’ll know they’re different because they’re noticeably thicker and larger. They have deep pockets, which is ideal for holding more syrup. Typically, they’re square in shape and are created by a large grid waffle maker. A yeast batter is preferred to create a light and fluffy inside, with a crispy outside.
Let’s Wrap It Up
All of the waffle makers on our list bring something good to the table. Our winner would be the Chef’sChoice 854 model. You can cook four waffles at once, with LED indicator lights keeping on the right track. We also loved the about of control you have. It’s easy to customize your waffle with the browning and texture buttons. Plus, your breakfast will be ready in under three minutes. Is there a waffle maker on our list you’re going to purchase?
