Are You Searching for an Even and Quick Waffle Maker without Mess? For that purpose, opt for one with deep plates or an overflow prevention moat which prevents batter from spilling over.
As well, look for one with quick preheat times and clear readiness indicators; and one which can stand upright for compact storage purposes is even better!
1. Cuisinart Vertical Waffle Maker
If you want a waffle maker that takes away the stress of batter overflow, this model could be for you. Its innovative design features a moat around its plates to catch any excess batter before it leaks onto countertops and red and green lights to indicate when preheating is complete and when waffles are ready; plus there’s a turn dial with six browning settings so you can customize results as you see fit.
We were particularly taken with this model’s sleek brushed stainless steel finish and removable, nonstick plates – both features made it one of the easiest waffle makers we tested to use and clean. Plus, its beeping feature was perfect – notifying us when to pour more batter and again when waffles were finished, unlike other less costly machines that require you to watch for steam escaping out the top in order to determine when they were done – saving both time and hassle when using.
Cons: Unfortunately, this four-slice model is costly and takes up more space than other models. Furthermore, its plate grooves may be shallow, and clearing batter clumps out of the overflow moat may prove challenging.
2. Breville Smart Waffle Maker
Trying your luck at making waffles four squares? Breville makes an outstanding model that cooks quickly, evenly and crispily. It comes equipped with dials to select between Belgian and classic waffles as well as 12 shades of browning control for perfecting browning levels – and even comes equipped with an additional button should they need just a bit more doneness!
Cast-aluminum cooking plates lift easily to reveal a clean interior, and the machine features a moat to catch any batter drips. An internal program known as Waffle IQ continually monitors plate temperature and adjusts cooking times accordingly to produce consistent batches every time.
One potential drawback to this machine is that it does not indicate when your waffles are complete; therefore, you’ll have to keep an eye out and decide if more time may be needed before cooking another batch. This may become especially troublesome when catering for large crowds or having limited counter space available for prep work.
3. All-Clad Stainless Steel Waffle Maker
Waffles have long been one of our go-to breakfast foods for good reason: their toasty exteriors and deep dimples offer ample room to store syrup without becoming soggy (something pancakes couldn’t do!), plus making your own is easier than you may realize.
But choosing a waffle maker comes down to knowing your desired features and counter space requirements. Our tests have revealed that power, iron material and nonstick coating are three critical elements in selecting an effective waffle maker.
This All-Clad waffle maker boasts many of the features we appreciate, such as ready indicator lights and a countdown timer that helps you reach the ideal shade. Furthermore, there are three recommended browning settings and an adjustable cooking timer to suit individual preferences. However, its large footprint may not suit every kitchen; at 15.3 pounds and measuring 14.9 by 12.3 by 5.1 inches this device weighs 15.3 pounds and stands 15.3 inches high.
4. Dash Mini Waffle Maker
If you’re searching for decorative cookware that doubles as a waffle maker, the Dash Mini waffle maker could be the ideal solution. Available in pumpkin and skull shapes, this unit makes adorable bite-sized waffles kids will adore while its compact size means it can easily fit on kitchen countertops or in drawers and cabinets.
Our tests of this waffle maker showed nearly perfect results, producing thick, crisp and tender waffles from both scratch and mixes. With two nonstick surfaces that heat evenly and lift waffles cleanly – as well as indicator lights to signal when baking is ready – and an adjustable countdown timer, this machine made nearly flawless waffles!
Only downside is its inconvenient single waffle maker feature and lack of adjustable browning levels compared to All-Clad and Presto Flipside models tested, making it difficult for families who like sharing. Furthermore, its limited browning levels may make achieving your preferred shade difficult.
