In this article, you’ll learn about my TOP 2 picks for the perfect flip Belgian waffle maker.
Belgian waffles have a special place it my heart and frozen waffles just don’t make the cut.
I’m sure you agree with that.
There’s something strangely comforting in the freshly baked Belgian waffles. Perhaps it’s the perfect balance between the crispy exterior and soft flurry inside?
But you’ll need a RELIABLE waffle maker that can deliver consistent waffles to truly enjoy them at home. Not to forget, it has to be super easy to clean and use.
After all, a waffle maker is about living out the fantasy of a perfect lazy Sunday brunch.
So if you are in pursuit of the perfect flip Belgian waffle maker, then you’ll love the in-depth reviews in this article. I’ve reviewed dozens of waffle makers, which brings me to the final showdown between my top 2 picks:
• Simple to Use
• Innovative flip design for compact vertical storage
• Cons: No browning controls
• 6 browning settings for greater control
• Audible beeps and LED indicator lights to notify you when the waffles are ready
• Cons: More expensive and takes up more space
The Presto flipside belgian waffle maker is a very affordable and simple to use waffle maker that can be depended on to deliver consistently good and thick Belgian waffles. The innovative 180-degree flip design allows the waffle maker to be rotated and locked in a vertical position for a compact storage when not in use.
The Cuisinart double waffle maker is more expensive but you get to make 2 perfect waffles at the same time. This is a much-loved feature that allows you and your loved ones to enjoy the hot waffles at the same time. It looks like a professional waffle maker you see at hotel breakfasts, but is simple to use with several browning options so that you can have greater control.
Hungry for more? Let’s get started.
First, we have some basic questions to be answered. If you are in a hurry, feel free to jump straight to our reviews!
What is the Difference Between a Belgian Waffle and a Normal Waffle?
Belgian waffles can be square or round, though more commonly round. What really sets them apart from a normal waffle is their thickness and fluffiness.
Belgian waffles are at least 1 inch thick, slightly crispy on the exterior but soft and fluffy on the insides. They have larger and deeper wells compared to classic waffles, which are perfect to hold more maple syrup, ice-cream or whatever toppings you like.
Classic waffles, or regular waffles, are thinner and crispier. They have more pockets, albeit smaller and shallower, to create more edges for the crunch.
As a result, you will find that a Belgian waffle maker has thicker plates, as well as a bigger and deeper grid pattern.
If you like your waffle the classic way, you might want to check out our reviews of the best thin waffle makers instead.
Is a Flip Waffle Maker Better?
Flip belgian waffle makers tend to give rise to more evenly-browned waffles that are well-cooked on both sides of the waffle, compared to non-flip ones. This is especially so if we are comparing waffle makers on the lower price range or if you are using thinner batter.
When we pour the batter into the waffle iron, the underside tends to cook faster as the batter is in direct contact with the hot waffle plate.
After closing the lid, there are times when the batter may not even rise to touch the top plate. This can be due to either insufficient batter used or insufficient baking powder in the waffle mix. Because of this uneven cooking, the upper side of the waffle may be somewhat undercooked and pale compared to a darker and crispier bottom.
The shape of such an incomplete waffle, would of course be far from perfect.
On the other hand, if we flip the waffle plates upside down after pouring in the batter and closing the upper lid, the batter will fall (by gravity) and fill up the other plate.
This evenly distributes the batter to achieve a full thick waffle, which is of course visually more beautiful. With the batter in direct and complete contact with both plates, this also ensures faster and more even cooking of the waffle so that it is crispy and well-browned on both sides but still fluffy on the inside.
Having said that, high end waffle irons, such as the All Clad Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker, makes really good Belgian waffles without the flip feature too.
#1: Presto Flipside Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Value
The Presto 03510 flipside Belgian waffle maker makes use of an innovative hinge design that allows you to flip the waffle 180 degrees, instead of the more common rotating style.
Flip waffle makers tend to take up more storage space so what’s really nice about Presto is that the waffle plates can be rotated and locked in a vertical position for a compact storage when not in use.
It comes at a very affordable price point but can be depended on delivering large Belgian waffles (7 inches in diameter) that are crispy on the outside and flurry on the inside.
For under $50, you get a flip Belgian waffle maker that’s more than 1000 W, which is a sturdy workhorse!
Other great features include visual and audible indicators, countdown timer, and a ceramic non-stick coating for easy release of the waffle and easy cleaning.
PROS
Evenly-cooked waffle on both sides
The 180-degree flip design ensures an even spread and cooking of the batter. You can also check on both sides of the waffle without having to take it out.
Stores compactly
When not in use, the waffle maker can be rotated and locked in an upright position so that it takes up a lot less space than the typical rotating Belgian waffle makers.
Set your own cook time with easy to read digital countdown timer
The recommended cook time is about 3-4 minutes to achieve a nicely browned waffle.
But you have full ownership and flexibility to adjust the timing depending on your preference and the batter that you are using.
The digital timer can be set down to the seconds. I like that the digital countdown timer display makes it really easy for you to tell how much time is left.
Audible beep when the timer is up… and 1-minute prior as a heads-up
I find the warning beep 1 minute before the timer a really nice touch. This gives you enough time to get back to the waffle maker if you are busy preparing other items, or to take out the waffle a few seconds earlier if you want.
Important: The timer alarm has NOTHING to do with the control of the heating.
The alarm is functioning only as a countdown timer. The heating is not automatically shut off when the timer goes to 0. So, you need to come and get your waffle to prevent it from getting burnt!
Indicator light to signal that the waffle iron is ready for use
The red indicator light shows up when the waffle maker is heating. The red light goes off when the pre-heating is completed to indicate that the waffle iron is ready for use.
During the cooking of the waffle, you may realize that the indicator light goes on and off. This just means that the temperature is being maintained.
Ceramic non-stick coating releases the waffle readily and makes cleaning a breeze
The waffle iron consists of a ceramic non-stick coating, so you can use it directly without any additional oiling.
The cooked waffles readily release from the waffle iron. The waffle comes right off perfectly in 1 piece with the pull of a fork without sticking (so there’s really nothing left behind to clean).
If you are using a pair of tongs, you’d want to use wooden or silicone. Do not use metal tongs to avoid scratching and damaging the non-sticking coating on the waffle iron. Similarly, when using a fork, I usually slide the fork horizontally into the waffle from the side so as not to ruin the non-stick surface.
The ceramic non-stick plates also make cleaning a breeze as it can be wiped down easily. A wet cloth or paper towel will do the trick. In fact, this reduced scrubbing actually help the waffle iron to last longer as it reduces the risk of scratching of the non-stick surface.
Makes thick flurry waffle that can be easily cut into 4
The thick grid design bakes extra-thick Belgian waffles that are golden brown and crispy on the exterior but moist and flurry on the interior.
The waffle can also be easily cut into 4 equal sections for sharing.
Durable looking
The brushed stainless-steel exterior is durable and looks good.
CONS
No temperature controls
The Presto waffle iron heats up to 375 degrees, and you have no control over the temperature settings.
The only thing you can control and set is the in-built countdown timer, which functions independently from the heating of the waffle maker. It serves the same purpose as an external timer (if you already have one in your kitchen), and does not turn the unit on or off.
Battery operated timer
The countdown timer is operated by a separate battery.
A change of battery is probably not something you need to do frequently and instructions are provided by the manufacturer.
Personally, I find the steps too much of a hassle. I’m not sure yet…But when the time comes for me to replace the battery, I might just use an external timer.
Require more space when in use compared to other flip waffle makers
The 180-degree flipping takes up more space when in use, compared to the rotating styles.
Plates are not removable
The waffle plates cannot be removed for washing. This is usually not an issue as the non-stick coating makes cleaning a breeze, except that it can get messy when there’s an overflow.
TIP: Gauging the amount of batter correctly to prevent overflow is a must.
No on/off switch
There are no on/off switch so you will need to plug and unplug the unit to turn it on or off.
No lock on the handle
There isn’t a lock on the handles to keep them shut so you will need to make sure that you are holding both handles together when you are flipping.
This is not really a major issue.
But you might want to be on a lookout if kids are using it. It’s otherwise really easy to operate, even for kids (under adult supervision of course).
You don’t have to worry about scalding as the handles are insulated.
How to Use a Presto Flipside Waffle Maker?
- Pre-heat the waffle maker
To use the Presto waffle maker, the first step is to pre-heat the unit while keeping the lids closed. The red light is turned on automatically to indicate that heating is underway.
Pre-heating takes about 5 minutes, so you can use this time to prepare the batter.
When the waffle iron is hot enough and ready for use, the red light goes off.
TIP: The Presto waffle maker comes with 4 different recipes that you can try. Alternatively, the Carbon’s Golden Malted Pancake and Waffle Flour Mix is also a tried and tested store brand batter mix.
- Pour ¾-1 cup batter into the center of the waffle grid
The presto waffle maker has pretty thick grid plates so you’ll generally need ¾ to 1 cup batter. The exact amount will vary depending on the recipe and brand of batter mix used.
Avoid being overzealous and pouring in too much batter. You’d want to avoid dealing with the mess of waffle batter oozing out all over the place.
I wouldn’t recommend more than a cup.
Pour the batter into the center of the waffle grid so that the batter will be evenly spread out when you close the lid and flip the waffle plates.
TIP: If you are using a thick batter that doesn’t flow, you can pour ¼ cup to each of the 4 sections of the waffle grid or use a silicon spatula to spread the batter.
- Set the countdown timer, close the waffle maker and flip the unit over 180 degree
The recommended cooking time is 3-4 minutes. However, the exact cooking time depends on few factors, including your preference and the batter you are using.
TIP: Do not flip the waffle maker immediately after pouring in the batter. Give it another 5-10 seconds.
It’s ok not to use the in-built timer as it only serves as a guide and has nothing to do with the actual heating. You can use your own external timer or try the “steam watching” technique.
What’s the steam watching technique?
You can watch out for the steam as an indicator for doneness. While the waffle is still cooking, you will see a steady stream of steam coming out from the waffle maker. When the steam starts to dissipate, your waffle is about ready. You can then open slowly and check if the waffle is done to your liking.
You can check on the waffle after 1.5-2 minutes. Opening the lid too early may however cause the unbaked waffle to split and become difficult to remove.
If you prefer the waffle to be darker, close and wait a little longer. Repeat opening and checking until done.
When flipping the waffle maker, do remember to grasp both handles together as there are no locks or clips to automatically hold them.
- Optional to flip the waffle maker halfway
You can give the waffle maker another flip halfway into the baking, but it’s really optional.
While the waffle is being cooked, you will find that the red indicator lights goes on and off. That just means that the temperature is being maintained
- Audible alarm when the timer is up
There will be 2 beeps to alert you when there is 1-minute left on the timer. When the set time is up, the timer will beep for 5 times.
Do remember that the timer functions independently of the unit, so it does not turn of the heating of the waffle maker.
- Open the waffle maker and lift the waffle from the grid
To remove the waffle, simply spear a fork horizontally from the side and lift it from the grids. You can also use a silicone or wooden spatula. Avoid using metal tongs to prevent any scratches and damage on the non-stick surface.
- Repeat steps 2-6 to make more waffles.
- Unplug the waffle maker and allow the unit to cool before cleaning.
You can think of the first waffle like a trial. You may or may not get the perfect waffle just yet. The idea is to find out what works best for your particular batter mix, in terms of the amount of batter to use and cooking time required. You can then adjust and improve for the next waffle.
How To Clean The Presto Flip Waffle Maker?
Cleaning has been a breeze so far as I’ve not had any issue with waffle sticking.
All you need is to wipe the grids with a damp cloth or damp paper towel while the unit is still warm, but not hot. Make sure that there are no residues left stuck in the waffle grids.
If you find that there are still some bits of cooked batter stuck on the waffle iron, you can try applying a little cooking oil on it to soften it, making it easier to wipe off.
Before I use the waffle maker the next time, I’ll give it a wipe again with a wet cloth or wet paper towel. When the unit is being pre-heated, I take it that the waffle iron has undergone a round of steam-cleaning or sterilization.
Are Ceramic Waffle Makers Safe?
Ceramic coated waffle makers are very non-stick and safe. In fact, a ceramic waffle maker may be considered more eco-friendly than traditional non-stick waffle maker because it is free of chemicals such as PTFE and PFOA.
PTFE are used to make non-stick Teflon appliances. PTFE starts to degrade at around 500 degF, which means that harmful chemicals could be leached into the food and fumes when overheated.
Do I Need To Oil Or Season The Presto Waffle Grates?
The simple answer is No.
I’m sure that if you have done some research or read through the customers’ reviews, you would have come across many conflicting information as to whether you need to season the waffle grids, and whether to apply the oil just once before you use it for the first time or every time you make a batch of waffles.
I was confused in the beginning too.
Well, the conclusion is… the latest model, Presto 03510 ceramic flipside belgian waffle maker, do not need to be seasoned as the non-stick coating is made of ceramic finishing.
Before using it for the first time, all you need to do is to give it a good wipe using a damp cloth. Excessive application of oil may in fact damage the non-stick ceramic waffle iron over time and may even result in sticking. Non-stick sprays are also not recommended as it may leave tacky residues.
I have not experienced it myself but according to some customers, if the waffle iron start sticking in future, you can apply some vegetable oil to the waffle grids before cooking and as needed for subsequent waffles.
Do you know?
The amount of oil or butter in your waffle batter also plays a part in determining whether or not your waffles will stick to the waffle iron. Most Belgian waffle batter mix would have sufficient oil content in the recipe. But if you find that your waffles are consistently sticking to the grid, you might want to increase the oil.
Who Is It For?
I like Presto as it proves to be a simple gadget that works well and stores compactly. It is perfect for baking newbies like me, who just want something sturdy and effective to get the job done without all the unnecessary bells and whistles.
For under $50, I get a waffle maker that’s more than 1000 W… what more can I ask for?
However, if you are making waffles for a family, you only get to make 1 waffle at a time. So, it’s really hard to have everyone enjoying the hot waffles at the same time. Either the earlier waffles get cold while waiting to make enough waffles for everyone to eat together, or everyone will be eating separately while you will be constantly cooking and serving.
#2: Cuisinart waf-f20 Double Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Double Flip Belgian Waffle
I remember being fascinated by double-decker buses when I was a kid and that’s exactly what I was reminded of when I first saw the Cuisinart belgian double waffle maker.
2 waffle irons come stacked on top of one another, just like a double-decker bus!
Cuisinart is a well-trusted brand when it comes to affordable and quality kitchen appliances. Raise your hands if you’ve got more than 1 Cuisinart appliances in your kitchen like me (don’t be shy).
What I love most about this double waffle maker is that I can make 2 large deep-pocketed waffles at the same time. So, both my husband and I can sit down and enjoy the hot freshly baked waffle at the same time.
This is an especially important feature if you have a big family or enjoy having friends over for brunch and want to make more waffles quickly.
Compared to Presto, you also have more control over your waffles, without much added complexities. There is a control knob where you can easily adjust your desired browning settings.
The Cuisinart double waffle maker also comes with indicator lights, along with audible beep tones, to tell you when the preheat is completed and when the waffle is ready. What’s nice is that the 2 LED lights and beep tones function independently for the 2 waffles so that each waffle are perfectly done.
The biggest downside is that it is heavy and bulky. You will need to set aside a lot of counter space or storage space.
However, if you are sure to use the waffle maker regularly and have enough space to accommodate it as permanent fixture on your counter-top, you will not be disappointed.
Looks similar to the Waring Pro Double Belgian Waffle Maker?
Some of you may have heard of the popular Waring Pro Double Belgian Waffle Maker which had stellar ratings. It was only when I was researching for the best belgian waffle maker that I learned that Waring and Cuisinart actually belong to the same parent company.
The once popular Waring Pro line has been discontinued and replaced by the Cuisinart waf-f20 double belgian waffle maker. Other than some minor changes in the looks, nothing much seems to have changed.
PROS
Customize your waffle with 6 browning settings
There is a 6-settings control knob that allows you to choose how brown you want your waffles to be. It functions just like the turning dial on your toaster.
As a start, you can try with setting #4. If you want your waffle to be more golden brown, you can move it higher.
Intuitive to use
Cuisinart has even added an arrow on the handle as a reminder of which way to rotate the waffle plates.
Indicator lights and beeps to let you know when your waffles are ready
The Cuisinart double waffle maker is really easy and intuitive to use, despite its professional look.
The indicator lights light up in green when pre-heating is completed and the waffle plates are ready to be used. The lights turn off after pouring in the batter, and light up again when your waffles are done.
Along with the visual light indicators, there are also audible beep tones. 6 beeps when the preheat is completed to inform you that the waffle iron has reached the cooking temperature and 3 beeps when the waffle is ready.
This is a very useful feature, especially if you are not someone who would be standing and watching over for your waffle. Chances are, you’ll be busy preparing other stuff or babysitting while waffle making.
Independent timer for both waffle plates
Each set of waffle plates comes with its own indicator lights and timer. When the individual waffle is ready, it will beep separately to ensure the delivery of consistent pairs of waffles.
Extra thick waffle plates
The waffle grids are extra thick so you make really nice, deep pocketed one-inch thick belgian waffles.
Waffles releases readily from the non-stick waffle plates
The Cuisinart waffle irons have a non-stick coating so that the waffles release readily without sticking. Hence, clean-up is simple as well.
Similar to Presto, all you need to do is give it a good wipe using a wet cloth or wet paper towel after use.
However, for the Cuisinart double waffle maker, it is recommended that you season the grid with a flavourless oil before each batch.
Comes with a measuring cup
The waffle maker comes with a handy measuring cup that you can use to pour the batter. The cup has a handle so you can hang it on the side of the batter bowl between uses. However, there are no markings on the cup.
CONS
No drip tray
The Cuisinart waffle maker does not come with a drip tray, which is not a major issue to me as the coating on the base is very easy to wipe clean.
Non-removable waffle plates
Same as Presto, the Cuisinart waf-f20 double belgian waffle maker does not feature removeable waffle plates. It is generally easy to wipe clean as the waffle grids have a non-stick coating.
Just be really careful not to overflow when adding batter. If the batter gets into the crevices around the hinges and handle, it can be troublesome to clean.
Bulky and Heavy
Measuring 10.6”x16.5”x10.3” and weighing over 13 pounds, I would rather leave the Cuisinart double waffle maker on the counter-top rather than having to shove it in and out of the cabinet each time. And definitely not an overhead cabinet.
For those with limited space, this waffle maker may not be the most viable option.
The GOOD part, the stainless-steel exterior looks beautiful and sturdy when displayed.
Be gentle on the plastic hinge
Even though the plastic hinge is not a deal-breaker at the moment, my concern is that it could get brittle from the heat over time.
You might want to be gentle when opening the lids. Avoid extending it more than it’s designed to be as that could add more stress on the hinge.
How Do You Use The Cuisinart Double Belgian Waffle Maker?
1. Before use, wipe the waffle grids with a damp cloth to remove dust.
2. Switch on the plug and turn the switch ON.
3. Adjust the control knob to your desired browning setting to start the preheating.
4. When the preheating is completed, the green indicator lights will light up and beep 6 times.
5. Open the top lid. Before making the first waffle each time, oil the waffle plate with a flavourless oil.
Tip: Use a silicone brush
6. Pour the batter onto the center of the grid and close the lid. The green light will go off.
7. Rotate the waffle maker 180 degrees.
8. If you are making a second waffle, open the lid that is now on top.
9. Again, season the plate with oil for the first time. Pour the batter and close the lid. The green light located on the top waffle grid cover will go off.
10. Rotate the waffle maker again.
11. When one of the waffles is done, the green light of that waffle plate will light up and you will hear 3 beep tones.
12. Open the lid and remove the waffle using a heatproof silicone spatula.
13. The corresponding light will illuminate and beep 3 times when the second waffle is also done to the preferred setting. Rotate to the top position, open the lid and remove the waffle.
If you find that your waffles tend to stick, you might want to add a little more oil or butter to the batter. part of the ease of release is dependent on the fats in the batter.
How to Clean the Cuisinart Double Belgian Waffle Maker?
After cooking, switch off the unit and open the top lid to allow the waffle grids to cool down. To clean, first brush off any crumbs. gently wipe off any excess/residual oil using a dry paper towel or dry cloth. Then wipe with a damp cloth. To maintain the exterior, use a dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive pads. Do not wash with soap and water after each use as that will wear out the unit faster…
If batter sticks to the waffle grids, pour a little cooking oil onto the baked batter and let it stand for 5 minutes to soften the batter for easier removal.
Who Is It For?
The Cuisinart double waffle maker is best suited for you if have a big family and want to make waffles quickly so that everyone can enjoy the waffles together.
You get to enjoy professional quality at home as it delivers consistently beautiful deep pocketed Belgian waffles with great textures.
However, if space constraint is a major issue for you, the Cuisinart double waffle maker would not be suitable due to its bulky size and weight.
Old Fashioned Waffle Iron, Anyone?
You may be wondering… why bother with an old-fashioned stovetop Belgian waffle iron when there are so many convenient electric plug-in waffle makers around.
Well, it’s compact and super portable as it does not require electricity!
They can be used over gas stove. But personally, I’m more attracted by the idea that you can simply bring it along on your camping trip to use it over the fire or use it over an outdoor grill. Doesn’t it sound cool?
There are many types of stovetop waffle irons – differing in material and thickness of the waffle grids. To make thick fluffy belgian waffles, you will need waffle plates with thick grids.
Cast iron belgian waffle maker, such as Lehman’s, can last for a long time. However, it can be pretty heavy to flip so not ideal if you have wrist problems. A cast iron waffle maker generally takes a longer time to heat up. Similarly, it is able to retain heat for a longer period of time which is a great feature if you are using it in the open during the cold season.
NordicWare 15040 is a Belgian stove top waffle maker. Aluminium heats up faster but doesn’t retain the warmth as long as cast iron. The NordicWare has a non-stick coating, which contains PTFE though. It works well on gas stove. However, you’ll need be careful if you want to use it over a bbq grill or a campfire because the handle is rather short and is made of plastic.
The Chuck Wagon Waffle Iron is a cast iron waffle iron that has a much longer handle, making it suitable for a camping breakfast accessory. However, it does not seem to be as deep pocketed.
Do You Need a Flip Begian Waffle Maker?
It may not seem that a waffle maker is an essential gadget in a kitchen. Well, waffles are not exactly a staple food. A waffle maker is also not exactly a multi-purpose appliance.
However, owning a waffle maker is about living out the fantasy of a perfect lazy Sunday brunch!
Imagine waking up to aroma of freshly brewed coffee and smell of melted butter and drizzling honey over perfectly golden waffles.
Have you ever felt a sudden need for some sweet comfort food… but was either too lazy get out of the house to make a trip to the cafe or there’s just nothing near your vicinity that can satisfy your cravings?
I have. Every girl has moments like this.
These scenarios make it really difficult for a waffle lover like me to resist a waffle maker for my kitchen. Just imagine whipping up a belgian waffle with ice-cream and chocolate syrup as and when you feel like it…
A flip Belgian waffle maker is not only super easy to use, it’s also reliable in delivering Belgian waffles that are just as good as most hotel breakfasts and cafes. In the long run, it’s much cheaper waffling than eating out. And convenient.
Key Takeaways
The Cuisinart double Belgian waffle maker is best for you if are cooking up waffles quickly and regularly. More importantly, you got to have sufficient space for it to be a permanent fixture on your countertop. Otherwise, I think you will find better value in the Presto Flipside.
An old-fashioned stovetop waffle iron is really cool for outdoor camping and grills, but not as a mainstay in my kitchen. Personally, I would opt for the convenience of a plug-in waffle maker.