Nothing beats freshly-made waffles from the comfort of your home. If you’re looking to fill up your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of hot waffles by treating you and your loved ones to one of these treats, then a waffle iron is right up your alley. The good news is that making fresh waffles is a walk in the park.
Armed with an excellent homemade waffle batter recipe, you whip up a stack of waffles for breakfast in a few minutes and enjoy them with a fresh cup of coffee or homemade juice if you have an immersion blender, for instance.
It’s the perfect start to your day. The only setback with waffle makers is that getting them spick and span is no easy feat. Luckily, waffle irons with detachable plates were invented. Besides being user-friendly, cleaning them is a breeze.
However, with the wealth of options that have littered the market, choosing the best waffle maker with removable plates can be an uphill battle. In this guide, we’ve rounded up a few top options that will give you the best bang for your buck and a few pointers on choosing the right option. Read on!
The Best Waffle Makers With Removable Plates
Armed with insight into how to choose the most ideal option for you, we’ve rounded up the best waffle makers with removable plates that will give you value for your money.
1. Best Overall: Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker
Regarded as the crème de la creme of waffle makers, the Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker has unmatched performance. It features four-slot pancake plates and four waffle plates that are not only dishwasher-safe but also non stick, making the cleaning process a walk in the park.
The four-slot pancake plates were designed with versatility in mind as they allow you to make French toast, hash browns, eggs, grilled sandwiches, pancakes, and everything in between. After all, the world is your oyster.
With the six-setting temperature setting, you have free rein to make your waffles to your desired crispiness. Over-baking them becomes the least of your concerns. The indicator and ‘beep’ lights will alert you that your breakfast is ready for consumption. With this nifty appliance, burnt breakfast that puts a damper on your day is in the past.
As a bonus, the Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker is eye-catching. Its stainless steel cover oozes elegance and compliments any kitchen décor. The handy appliance comes with a three-year warranty and includes a recipe book and pair of tongs. Designed with durability in mind, the Cuisinart Belgian Maker will serve you well for years down the road.
Pros
- Top-notch non stick coating for hassle-free release of food
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Dishwasher-friendly for convenience
- Six temperatures for enhanced flexibility
- Multipurpose
- Long-lasting and pocket-friendly
Cons
- The outside is hot to touch, so extra caution must be exercised
- Doesn’t lay flat for larger cooking surfaces
2. Best for Families: KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker
When shopping for the best waffle maker with removable plates, there’s a high likelihood you’ve stumbled upon the KRUPS Belgian option. The brand churns out a vast assortment of household appliances and is renowned for its capsule coffee makers. It’s, therefore, not surprising that KRUPS is worthy of a spot on this list as it allows users to make fluffy, caramelized, and impeccably thick waffles that undoubtedly spark a smile.
The KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker has everything you need and more in a top-notch appliance. Besides detachable plates that make the unit a breeze to clean and user-friendly, you’ll be pleased with the uniform heat distribution and browning system to accommodate your preferences and the members of your household.
Despite the setting you choose on this waffle maker, its state-of-the-art heating technology guarantees even cooking. It grants you free rein to make up to four Belgian waffles concurrently. With deep-pocketed plates, the appliance can easily hold your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup and fresh berries.
The stainless steel and sleek design infuse a contemporary touch in any kitchen. If you prefer to keep your waffle maker tucked away in your pantry or cabinet after each use, its compact and lightweight design allows you to do so.
The green and red indicator lights on the KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker inform you when it’s turned on, baking, and your waffles are ready. It alerts users with a ‘ready’ beep which eliminates the guesswork. You can delight in crispy, mouthwatering, and uniformly-baked waffles each time.
Given that it’s dishwasher-friendly and PFOA-free, cleaning the appliance’s removable plates is a walk in the park. If you’re on the quest for an eye-catching, user-friendly, and pocket-friendly waffle maker, then your search ends here.
Pros
- You can make four thick Belgian waffles concurrently
- Dishwasher-safe detachable plates for convenient cleaning
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage
- Adjustable browning settings for enhanced customization
- Cost-effective without compromising on quality
Cons
- Designed solely for making waffles
- The loud ‘ready’ beep is non-adjustable
3. Best Flip Waffle Maker: Secura Upgrade
Are you on the quest for a state-of-the-art waffle maker that won’t dent your wallet? Then the Secura Upgrade is right up your alley. At an impressively competitive cost, what sets this flip waffle maker apart from the pack is that it has the uncanny ability to rotate at a 360-degree angle; this allows the batter to spread and make waffles uniformly each time.
The locking clip design of the Secura Upgrade guarantees minimal leakage, and its handle that’s cool to touch makes it safe and easy to turn the appliance. Another incredible aspect of this waffle maker is that it’s easily detachable, making the cleaning process a walk in the park.
The removable plates are not only dishwasher-friendly but also non stick. Little elbow grease is required to get the unit spick and span. The Secura Upgrade is sturdy, user-friendly, and includes a base tray to prevent the batter from spilling over and making a mess.
If you decide to buy this machine, keep in mind that it might emit mild smoke coupled with a slight burning smell during the first use. While that might be alarming, don’t panic. This is because the manufacturers used protective oils during the production process. Therefore, the burning odor must be ‘burned’ away during the first use. Besides that, Secura Upgrade makes golden and fluffy pancakes.
Pros
- It features a 360-degree rotation that ensures uniformly-cooked and perfectly golden waffles
- Includes a two-year warranty
- Includes a heavy-duty heating element of 1000W coupled with sleek stainless steel housing
- Non stick, removable plates pave the way for effortless waffle release
Cons
- Lacks temperature regulation
- Pungent burning smell during the first use
4. Best for Gourmet Waffles: All-Clad Digital Waffle Maker
Are you looking for a gourmet waffle maker designed with family use in mind? Then your search ends here with the All-Clad Digital Waffle Maker. With this appliance, you can revel in four square-shaped, hot, and fluffy waffles at a time.
You can say goodbye to the inconvenience of eating in shifts. The LCD includes six recipe settings to whip up various waffle options, among other savory foods. It also features seven adjustable browning settings that allow you to customize your waffles to your preference.
The All-Clad Digital Waffle Maker has an audible beep that informs you when your waffles are cooked to perfection. With removable and deep-pocketed plates layered with PFOA-free non stick material, your waffles detach effortlessly and clean without leaving a mess behind.
When making waffles, overfills are at times inevitable. As such, the detachable plates are dishwasher-friendly, making the cleaning process a walk in the park.
Once your waffles are ready, and the machine has cooled, lock the lids and tilt it upwards for convenient vertical storage to save on cabinet or pantry space. You’ll notice several stream vents around the unit. These allow moisture to escape, paving the way for fluffy and slightly crispy, golden-brown waffles.
Furthermore, the All-Clad Digital Waffle Maker has an overflow bin that comes in handy in trapping excess batter.
Pros
- Perfect for larger households
- Non stick plates layered with PFOA-free material
- Overflow bin and steam vent
- Space-saving design
- Dishwasher-friendly removable plates
Cons
- Steep price point
Why Select a Waffle Maker With Removable Plates?
The thought of a delicious waffle sparks a smile. However, that smile quickly turns into a frown when thinking of the tedious cleaning process. Luckily, behind every problem lies a viable solution.
In this case, the clever invention of a removable plate to the waffle iron is just what you need. It allows you to detach the plates from the unit and soak them in a solution of dish soap and water or run them through your dishwasher when you’re on the quest for convenience.
The detachable plates also allow you to reach the nooks and crannies during the cleaning process. Additionally, your waffle maker becomes versatile as it can double as a sandwich press when removing the plates.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Waffle Maker With Removable Plates
Before you choose the first waffle maker that tickles your fancy, let’s discuss a few factors buying factors to consider that will permit an informed decision.
The Number of Waffles
While some waffle makers have the uncanny ability to make at least four waffles simultaneously, others only allow you to cook one at a time. Therefore, based on your needs and the size of your household, you can invest in a waffle iron that is large enough.
Flipping Ability
Some of the best waffle makers with removable plates feature a smart flipping system that grants you the flexibility to flip over the machine during use. Resultantly, that prevents bald spots and ushers in better spreading.
Temperature Regulation
While some waffle makers feature a fixed temperature, other models come with an adjustable temperature. Temperature regulation allows for better control when making waffles which is ideally what you should gravitate more towards.
Additional Uses
As we mentioned earlier, your waffle maker can double as a sandwich press and grill. Therefore, a multipurpose appliance can be a worthwhile investment.
The Shape
It boils down to your preference. While some waffle maker makers make square waffles, others craft round-shaped ones.
Size
Granted, you might visualize eating waffles for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, the reality is that your waffle maker will end up tucked away in your kitchen. Therefore, it’s important to factor in the size of your kitchen cabinets to determine if it’ll be a snug fit.
Classic vs. Belgian Waffle Makers
The main difference between the two machines is that classic waffle makers lack the thickness, moist inside, fluffiness, and crispy outside that the Belgian counterparts do in their waffles. Nonetheless, that’s not to imply that classic waffle makers are inferior.
Instead, it boils down to preference. Let’s discuss a few key differences between Belgian waffle makers and their classic counterparts to determine the ideal option for you.
For starters, Belgian waffle makers grant you free rein to add more jam, syrup, and butter to your fluffy waffle as you deem fit. That’s a good thing if you prefer loaded waffles infused with a ton of flavors. It’s, therefore, not surprising that these machines are considerably bigger than their classic counterparts.
Secondly, classic waffle makers have a thinner waffle plate. That translates to crispier yet thinner waffles. The extra crispiness can be attributed to the smaller pockets per square inch on the plates.
If you gravitate towards a thin and crispy waffle, then a classic waffle maker is right up your alley. Contrarily, if fluffy and thick waffles with mild crispiness tickle your fancy, then Belgian waffle makers are your best bet.
Rotary Feature
The waffle batter is spread out more evenly in a waffle maker with a rotary feature. Less power is required to make thick, uniform, and complete waffles. This feature diminishes the risk of making waffles with holes at the center.
No-Drip Function
Waffle makers with a no-drip feature prevent the waffle batter from dripping before it hits your countertop, making the cleaning process less of a hassle once your waffles are ready. An excellent example of a machine with the no-drip feature is the Secura Belgian mentioned above.
Closing Remarks
Finding the best waffle maker with removable plates can help you achieve your perfect waffle.
Now that you know the factors to consider that will permit a great decision, in addition to the ideal options we’ve rounded up, you can enjoy mouthwatering, fluffy, and crispy waffles from the comfort of your home. With the detachable plates, the cleanup process will be the least of your concerns.
FAQ
Let’s explore the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about waffle makers with removable plates.
How long should you cook your waffles in a waffle maker?
The waffle makers we’ve discussed in this guide include an automatic timer that beeps to inform you when your waffles are ready, eliminating the need for guesswork. If your machine lacks this feature, keep your eyes peeled for steam emanating from it as you cook.
Once the steam is gone, lift the lid. There’s a high likelihood that your waffle(s) is ready. As a rule of thumb, waffles don’t take more than 5 minutes to cook if the waffle maker is preheated.
Should you grease your waffle maker with removable plates?
Greasing your waffle maker isn’t necessary if it’s a non stick model. However, some units require you to use cooking oil or spray to prevent sticking, even if it’s layered with a non stick coating. To be on the safe side, greasing your waffle maker before you pour the waffle batter is advisable to ensure even baking.
To properly grease your waffle maker with removable plates, immerse a silicone basting brush into a cup of cooking oil or melted butter and ensure you’ve greased up the nooks and crannies of your plates. A paper towel will get the job done if you don’t have a basting brush.
Is a waffle maker with removable plates compatible with pancake mix?
Yes! For the perfect waffle batter, you’ll need to adjust the pancake recipe slightly. You’ll find a wealth of mixes online that are suitable for waffles and pancakes.
What’s the best way to clean a waffle maker with removable plates?
When cleaning a waffle maker, wait for it to cool completely to avoid burning yourself. To get your machine spick and span, follow the steps below.
- Detach the cooking plates as per the user manual.
- If you don’t have a dishwasher, begin by immersing the plates in a cleaning solution of dish soap and warm water.
- Gently scrub the plates using a soft cleaning sponge.
- Once you’re done, rinse them under running water and leave them to air dry.
- If you’re using a dishwasher, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of your waffle maker. As you do so, make sure the water doesn’t seep into the electrical components as that will damage the machine.
- To eliminate baked-on and stubborn batter spillage, pour some oil on it.
- Let it soak for up to 30 minutes to soften the dried batter.
- Wipe it down using a damp paper towel or cloth.
