Waffles are delicious and easy to make. They’re the best breakfast food, up there with bacon and pancakes. They’re not only good on their own; they also serve as a blank canvas for a number of culinary innovations, like chicken waffle sandwiches. Yes, those exist! And they’re delicious.
The only downside when making waffles is the clean-up you’ll have to do after. It’s a daunting task that we don’t have time for, especially during a busy morning. Fortunately, there are some waffle makers that come with removable plates that you can just throw into a dishwasher and let it do all the work. That makes preparing waffles so much easier!
If you’re looking for a new waffle maker, we’ve compiled the best waffle maker with removable plates that can be bought today. Plus, a handy buyer’s guide at the end of the list.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
5 Best Waffle Maker With Removable Plates for the Perfect Waffles Every Time
A quick google search will bring you hundreds, if not thousands, of different waffle makers to choose from! But only a selected portion can be considered the best. Here are our top 5 cherry-picked waffle makers with removable plates you’ll love.
1. Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker with Pancake Plates – Best Overall
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: The square classic...
- EASY TO USE: 6-setting adjustable...
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Red and green...
- INCLUDED: Instruction manual and recipe...
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: Refer to user...
The Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker is what we would call the MVP of all waffle makers, primarily due to its top tier performance. It comes with a set of 4 Belgian waffle plates and a 4-slot pancake plate, making it the ultimate breakfast machine.
Both removable plates are nonstick and dishwasher safe, which makes clean-up quick and convenient.
The pancake plate that comes with this product doesn’t limit you to only making pancakes; you can prepare eggs, hash browns, grilled sandwiches, toast bread- the options are limitless!
Cuisinart’s 6-setting temperature control allows you to cook your waffles to the perfect amount of crispiness without worrying about over-baking them. The audible ‘beep’ and indicator lights will alert you when your food is done and ready to eat, so you can say good-bye to burnt breakfast with this nifty machine!
The design of this unit itself isn’t too bad on the eyes either. The brushed stainless steel cover of this waffle maker makes it look downright premium, and would compliment any kitchen decor.
Plus, Cuisinart very kindly included a pair of tongs and a recipe book completely free of charge.
The Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker comes with a 3-year warranty and a customer service team working 24/7. It’s overall finely made, and built to last for years in your kitchen.
Things We Like
- High-quality non-stick coating allows food to release without a hassle
- Six browning settings gives you more freedom to cook food to your liking
- Looks sleek and attractive
- Dishwasher safe
- Comes apart effortlessly for easy clean-up
Things We Don’t
- The outside of the waffle maker is hot to touch, so you have to be extra careful when using it
- Doesn’t lay flat for a larger cooking surface
2. George Foreman Evolve Grill and Waffle Plates – Best Multi-Use Waffle Maker
When a waffle maker is not just a waffle maker, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities. The George Foreman Evolve Grill offers such experience with its 3-in-1 cooking system.
This powerful machine grills, presses, and bakes. In the mood for chicken, steak, or burger? How about a panini, or a grilled sandwich? The George Foreman Evolve Grill got you covered. Don’t limit yourself to just waffles!
The temperature of this device ranges from 324 to 450° F, plus a searing heat option of 500° F that can be reached in only 90 seconds. Heat is properly distributed throughout the material, ensuring effective and even cooking.
Many users would say that it “perfectly cooks every time,” and that isn’t so far from that truth! This machine cooks and bakes like a dream.
Cleaning is made easy with its ceramic-based non-stick technology and is free of PTFE and PFOA, both of which were proven to be harmful when used in kitchen supplies.
Furthermore, its nonstick ceramic coating allows you to reduce the need for excess oils and butter for more healthy eating.
Plates are, of course, removable and dishwasher-safe. But what’s most impressive with this machine is its cool-touch release feature, which makes the plates easy to handle even if they’re still warm.
I would say that the George Foreman Evolve Grill is an outstanding product that is backed by a great 3-year-warranty and customer service second to none.
Things We Like
- Non-stick grill and waffle plate coatings for easy release
- Machine-made with stainless steel
- Remove 42% of fat while cooking for healthier eating
- Deep dish bake pan and muffin insert available to purchase separately
- Angle tilt is adjustable for grilling
Things We Don’t
- Would sometimes require a brush of oil to be entirely non-stick
3. T-fal EZ Clean Sandwich and Waffle Maker – Best Budget Waffle Maker
- 2 Sets Of Interchangeable Sandwich And...
- Waffle Plates Make 2 Square-Shaped...
- Use The Sandwich Plates To To Make...
- On/Ready Indicator Lights; Cord Storage;...
- Indicator Lights Advise If Power Is On...
The T-fal Sandwich and Waffle Maker is a product I personally own. I remember buying it approximately three or so years ago, and it still works brilliantly even today!
This waffle maker comes with two sets of interchangeable sandwich and waffle plates. It’s designed to make two square-shaped Belgian style waffles at a time, each with pockets deep enough to hold your favorite topping.
For lunch, you can switch out the waffle plate and replace it with the sandwich plate that comes with the product.
I personally use the T-fal waffle maker more for sandwiches than I do for waffles, but that’s just preference. Although when I make waffles, I can say for sure that it comes out perfectly golden-brown and crispy enough for my taste. I love it!
This unit is simple, easy to use, and highly affordable. Its size allows for easy storage when you don’t need it, compact enough to keep in tight cabinet space.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive but first-rate waffle machine, go for T-fal’s EZ Sandwich and Waffle Maker.
Things We Like
- Non-stick removable plates are dishwasher-friendly
- Takes up very little space in the pantry
- The machine warms up quickly
- Big bang for your buck
Things We Don’t
- Only makes 2 waffles at a time
- A bit hard to clean if batter overflows
4. KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker – Best for Families
When shopping for the best waffle maker with removable plates, chances are you’ve come across the KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker.
KRUPS produces a large variety of household appliances and are best known for their capsule coffee machines. But this company deserves a spot in this list because it makes beautifully caramelized, and impressively thick, fluffy waffles.
This product has everything you’ll ever need in a great waffle maker: good heat distribution, non-stick, removable plates which makes it easy to use and clean, and features an adjustable browning system to accommodate you and your family’s individual preferences.
Regardless of which setting you pick, its heating technology ensures even cooking straight through the waffle.
You can bake up to 4 square-shaped Belgian waffles with this waffle maker. Its plates are designed with extra deep pockets. This means it’ll easily hold fresh berries, maple syrup, and more of your favorite topping!
Its sleek, stainless steel design adds a modern look in anyone’s kitchen. If you’d rather keep it inside your pantry after use, it’s a compact design and can be stood up for storage.
The red and green indicator lights that come with this machine will let you know when it’s on, ready to bake, and when waffles have finished baking. It signals users with an audible “ready” beep, so no guesswork is involved. Enjoy evenly baked, crispy waffles every time!
Cleanup is easy with KRUP’s removable plates. It’s PFOA free and dishwasher safe. Overall, this machine is good looking, user friendly, and one of the most budget-friendly choices on this list.
Things We Like
- Makes 4 thick Belgian waffles at a time
- Removable plates can easily be cleaned in the dishwasher
- It’s compact enough to be stored away securely
- Has adjustable browning settings for individual preferences
- Great price for an excellent quality product
Things We Don’t
- The loud “ready” beep can’t be adjusted
- Makes waffles only
5. Secura Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Flip Waffle Maker
If you’re looking for a high-quality waffle maker but not prepared to spend a small fortune for one, the Secura Rotating Belgian Waffle Maker comes at an unbelievably competitive price.
What makes this waffle maker different from the other four we’ve reviewed is that this is the only machine that can rotate a full 360 degrees. This enables the batter to spread and evenly cook your waffles every time.
Its locking clip design ensures minimal leakage, and it’s cool touch handles make turning the machine easy and safe.
Another great thing about this product is that it can easily be taken apart for clean-up. Its detachable plates are nonstick coating and dishwasher-safe. Minimal work is required to keep this machine clean!
The Secura Rotating Belgian Waffle Maker has a study, solid-built, and it’s easy to use. It heats up quickly and cooks beautifully, and a base tray is included to catch batter that spills over.
When you do decide to purchase this machine, do note that it may give off a light smoke or a slight burning odor the first time you use it. If this happens, don’t panic!
The manufacturers explained that they use protective oils during the manufacturing process, and the burning smell is what needs to be “burned” away after first use. Other than that, the waffles Secura makes are fluffy and perfectly golden.
Things We Like
- 360-degree rotating design guarantees evenly cooked waffles
- Detachable, nonstick plates allow for effortless waffle release
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Comes with a heavy-duty 1000W heating element and stainless steel housing
Things We Don’t
- Doesn’t have a temperature control
A Guide To Choosing Best Waffle Maker With Removable Plates
Looking for a waffle maker but not quite sure where to start? Let us help you.
Belgian Waffle Makers vs Classic Waffle Makers
The main difference between Belgian and classic is that classic waffles don’t have that thick, fluffy, moist-on-the-inside, crispy-on-the-outside finished product as they do in Belgian waffles.
This isn’t to say that Classic waffles are inferior, though! Quite the opposite. It all really comes down to preference. Here are some of its primary differences:
Belgian Waffle Makers
Belgian waffles makers allow you to add more butter, syrup, or jam per bite due to their deep pockets. That’s a great thing if you’re looking to load your waffles with a ton of flavors! It’s also often much larger than regular waffles.
Classic Waffle Makers
Classic waffle makers have thinner plates, which results in thinner and crispier waffles throughout. Another factor that contributes to the crunchiness is that classic plates on a classic waffle maker create smaller pockets per square inch.
So to reiterate, if you love the taste of thinner, crispy waffles, go for a classic waffle maker. If you’re fond of thick, fluffy waffles instead, absolutely go for Belgian waffle makers.
Removable Plates vs Built-in Plates
We’ve reviewed waffle makers with removable plates for a reason: they’re easier to clean. This results in giving you more time to eat, and less time meticulously scrubbing your waffle maker clean before going to work. Just put them in the dishwasher, press the button, and you’re done.
Removable plates often also mean you can use the waffle maker for more than one feature, as you can switch from plate to plate. Such an example is the Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker with Pancake Plates.
When buying a waffle maker, I highly recommend you to choose one with removable plates. They may come at a slightly higher price than standard waffle makers with plates, but trust me, you’ll be thankful for the removable plate feature in the long run.
Shape, Quantity, and Size
No two waffle makers are alike, so we recommend you to closely consider the following:
Shape: How Do You Want Your Waffles to Look?
Shape all comes down to preference. Both classic and Belgian waffle makers come in the traditional round or square waffles that are traditionally found in American households. In Nordic countries, waffles tend to be heart-shaped.
Other shapes include different animal figures, lolly wafer, and bowl-shaped waffles. Regardless of what shape you choose from, the overall taste of the waffle won’t be affected.
Quantity: How Many Waffles at a Time?
Another factor to consider is how many waffles you’d like to make at a time. This largely depends on how many family members you’d like to feed every morning, as well as the time you have to spare in making breakfast. If it’s just you, though, any size of waffle maker will do.
Waffle makers are available in different quantities; you’ll find those that can make one, two, or four waffles in one go.
Size: How Big Do You Want Your Waffles to Be?
The size of the waffle maker is equally important as well. Some waffle makers can make one large waffle that can be cut into quarters, and some can make four huge individual waffles like the KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker.
Closely consider the maker’s waffle size to be able to ensure you don’t leave a lot of leftovers every morning.
Heat Distribution
All of the waffle makers we’ve reviewed offer extremely good heat distribution, so you won’t have to worry about your waffle turning out raw once it’s done.
Removable waffle makers with good heat distribution are one of the most important factors when it comes to buying the ultimate waffle maker. You’ll of course want your waffles to be cooked evenly, with a consistently fluffy or light center and a golden crisp all over.
Some waffle makers have uneven hot spots which greatly affects how your waffles may turn out. We don’t want raw or burnt waffles, so make sure you buy a waffle maker that has high heat distribution reviews.
Ease of Storage
It’s always advisable to choose a model that will suit your storage space and needs. This is especially true if you have minimal kitchen space or just simply prefer to store your waffle maker after you’ve finished eating.
Some waffle makers can be locked and tucked away vertically, like the Secura Belgian Waffle Maker. Others come with cord built-in cord storage to avoid annoying tangles, like the T-fal EZ Clean Sandwich and Waffle Maker.
Ease of Cleaning
All waffle makers have crevices, holes, and gaps where batter and crumbs may end up in. Some waffle makers, despite it coming with removable plates, are difficult to clean. Waffle makers often come in a cast iron, ceramic, or non-stick interior.
All the products we’ve reviewed are non-stick because it makes cleaning so much easier and quicker.
It’s important to note that when buying a non-stick waffle maker, ensure that it comes with non-toxic coatings, void of any PFOA and PTFE.
Other Features to Consider
Waffle makers are often packed with neat little features, but there’s no use paying the extra money if you’re not planning to use it. Here are some of the additional features to consider that can be found in a waffle maker:
Browning Controls
Do you like your waffles in a specific way? Do you prefer them to be deep brown with extra-crisp, or do you like them soft, fluffy, and light golden in color? I like my waffles lighter than most, so temperature control is something I personally look for when buying a waffle maker.
Browning controls also come in handy if your family members like different textured waffles.
Rotary Function
The batter is distributed more evenly in a waffle maker with a rotary function. This allows you to use less battery to get a thick, complete waffle. It also reduces the risk of getting a waffle that has holes in the middle.
No-Drip Feature
Models that have a no-drop feature prevent the batter from dripping before it hits your countertop, which will save you extra time cleaning up after you’re finished preparing your waffles. A great example of a waffle maker with this feature is the Secura Belgian Waffle Maker.
Multipurpose Functions
Some waffle makers aren’t just waffle makers. An example is the Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker with Pancake Plates. This unit not only make waffles; it also allows you to make eggs, pancakes, and toast sandwiches.
Multipurpose waffle makers are a bit more expensive than standard waffle makers, but it’ll cost less than buying two or three separate machines that only have 1 function.
Best Waffle Maker Brands
Brands are important to the consumer. Notable brands are all the more readily trusted and bought even regardless of the price it comes with.
In the world of kitchen appliances, there is a range of well-known and respectable brands you can trust. Some of these include the following:
Cuisinart
Cuisinart is an American home appliance brand that was founded in 1971. Although the company’s name Cuisinart became synonymous with food processors, they’re actually a full-service culinary resource that sells a wide range of kitchen appliances.
Because of Cuisinart’s commitment to producing innovative, functional, and top-quality products, they’ve won numerous coveted awards throughout the years. A few notable examples are the Good Design Awards, the Gold Hermes Award, and the Golden Summit International Award.
As far as waffle makers go, you’ll find that they sell almost all types available in the market. This includes classic round waffle makers, flip waffle makers, and square waffles makers, to make a few.
KRUPS
KRUPS is a reputable brand in the bean-to-cup world. The company, however, isn’t only limited to coffee makers. Since 1846, KRUPS has produced a large variety of high-quality household appliances.
Some notable examples include kettles, toasters, hand mixers, and, of course, waffle makers.
KRUPS’ products are designed to meet the needs of clients, and its innovative creations are a gift to the modern kitchen.
Secura
Secura is a brand that focuses on making affordable, environmentally friendly, and functional products in the kitchen, fitness, and health & beauty areas. They have been top sellers in several large national retailers, along with many leading online shopping services.
To date, Secura has sold well over 8 million units in the US alone. As far as trust-worthy companies go, Secura has certainly earned a place at the very top.
All-Clad
All-Clad makes superior-quality kitchen appliances that will last a lifetime. Their products come with a higher price point than others, especially with their waffle makers, but in exchange, you get products with a solid performance.
Founded in 1967, All-Clad makes a variety of appliances including ovenware, kitchen tools, and kitchen accessories. The company is well-known for it’s beautiful, high-performance cookware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious to learn more about waffle makers? We’ve got you covered.
Q: How long do I cook my waffles in a waffle maker?
A: The waffle makers that we’ve received above have an automatic timer that ‘beeps’ to let you know when your waffle is done, so no guesswork is needed.
If your waffle maker doesn’t have this feature, you can instead watch the steam coming out of your machine as you cook. Lift the lid when the steam stops; chances are that the waffle will be done.
Generally, it doesn’t take any more than 3-5 minutes for waffles to cook, as long as you’ve preheated your unit beforehand.
Q: Should I grease my waffle maker?
A: You don’t have to necessarily grease your waffle maker if it’s non-stick, but some waffle makers do require you to use cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking even if it is.
To be on the safe side, we recommend you to grease your waffle maker before pouring the batter. This will also ensure your waffles bake evenly.
To grease your waffle maker, dip your silicone basting brush in a cup of melted butter or oil, and make sure you’ve greased up all the nook and crannies of your tray. Alternatively, you can use a tissue paper in the same manner if you don’t have a brush.
Q: Can I make waffles with a pancake mix?
A: Yes, you can! To get the perfect waffle batter, though, you’ll have to modify the pancake recipe a little.
We’ve actually written an in-depth review of mixes that can be used for both pancakes and waffles that you can check out!
Q: How do I effectively clean a waffle maker?
A: When cleaning a waffle maker, it shouldn’t be hot as to not burn yourself, but don’t put it off or forget to clean either.
Here are the steps to follow when cleaning a waffle maker.
Plates
- Detach the cooking plate from your waffle maker as instructed in your unit’s manual.
- If you don’t have a dishwasher, you will first need to immerse the plates in warm water.
- Gently clean the plates with warm water and soap.
- Once done, wipe it with a dry cloth or paper towel.
Machine
- Clean the outside of the waffle maker with a damp cloth. Careful not to get water into the electrical parts of the unit.
- To remove stubborn, baked-baked on batter drips, pour a bit of oil into the batter you’d like to remove.
- Leave it in for a few minutes to soften.
- Wipe it away with a damp cloth or tissue.
Q: Why are my waffles not crispy?
A: The problem isn’t the machine; it’s often your batter’s consistency and moisture. You do need it to make a tender, fluffy waffle, but too much of it will quickly soften your waffle’s outer crust.
Also, using full buttermilk instead of plain milk will result in a heavy batter, which prevents waffles from being crispy.
Here are some tips to ensure the perfect crispy waffle:
- Swap half the buttermilk for low-fat milk.
- Allow your batter to rest in the fridge for about 10 minutes while your waffle maker preheats.
- Make sure your waffle machine is sufficiently preheated before pouring the batter.
Final Thoughts
To make perfect waffles, you’ll need a waffle maker that’ll make it happen. You can’t go wrong when choosing any of the best waffle maker with removable plates we’ve listed above, they’re certainly some of the best waffle makers with removable plates out there!
Our personal choice for the best waffle maker with removable plates is the Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker with Pancake Plates. It’s amazing how much this unit can do!
This is because it has a ton of great features that only the best waffle makers have: nonstick, dishwasher safe plates, six browning controls for individual preferences, and indicator lights to notify you that your waffle is baked perfectly.
It’s a Belgian waffle maker, so to those who love light and fluffy waffles with a golden brown crispy exterior, this machine is for you.
If you’re looking for an alternative option for the best waffle maker with removable plates, and for about half the price, we recommend the Secura Belgian Waffle Maker! It’s 360-degree rotating design guarantees excellently cooked waffles every time with very minimal clean up after.