Who could resist the sizzling sound and the sweet aroma fill the kitchen air as the heated waffle iron receives the first ladling of batter?

Close your eyes and savor in your mind large, golden waffles dripping with melted butter and fresh maple syrup.

This is possible, when you purchase a waffle iron. With a waffle iron in your kitchen, you can say goodbye to non-fluffy, overdone waffles from commercial establishments. You can just spend a few minutes to whip up a waffle at home and be off to wherever you’re going.

Your checklist for buying a waffle iron:

What do you need?

You can choose between electric powered waffle irons or those designed for stove top. You also have a choice of a circular or square waffle iron but you must note that circular waffle irons heat up quicker than the square ones. You could save on electricity and time when you opt for the circular design.

The ideal size of a waffle iron is actually for you to decide. You can choose waffle irons with smaller diameter sizes or the bigger ones, depending on what you need.

Is it user-friendly?

Naturally, you would want a waffle iron that does not need a genius to operate. Look for a model with easy to adjust settings so you will come out with perfectly made waffles without knitting your brows wondering how to operate your waffle iron. There are waffle irons with visual indicator so you will know when the waffle has finished baking.

Is it attractive?

If you want to come up with waffles with unique and attractive designs away from the ordinary, then choose waffle irons that offer this feature.

VillaWare waffle irons for example came out with uniquely-designed wafflers to stand out from the competition. This is especially appealing for the younger members of your family. This again depends on what you need.

Is it easy to clean?

Another factor you should consider is selecting a waffle iron that is easy to clean. Look for waffle irons with brushed stainless steel interior because it is non-sticking and easy to clean.

Is it durable?

As with any other kitchen appliances, you should look for waffle irons that are strong, sturdy and would last for years.

Other features to look out for

Before you make your final selection, try to check for additional features on a waffle iron. Those made with non-stick finish are good because you won’t have to spend hours scrubbing it off. Models with automatic temperature control also are a plus.

Among the existing brands in the market include Professional Belgian Waffle Iron, Waring, Villaware, Farberware, Toastmaster, Cuisinart, KitchenAid, and Krups. Prices of waffle irons normally range from $20 for the simple models to over $900 for the more elaborate ones.

Filed under: Buying Guides, Waffle Irons