Types of Waffle Makers

The standard waffle maker, sometimes referred to as a North American waffle maker, is a popular choice for businesses that want to serve American-style waffles. These waffle makers feature a grid pattern with shallower pockets, producing waffles with consistent shapes and thicknesses. Standard waffle makers are known for their utilitarian design and are often lightweight and easy to handle, making them perfect for establishments with limited counter space. They are also easy to store when they aren't in use, saving space in the kitchen.

• Waffle shape: Round, square
• Waffle thickness: 1/2" - 5/8"
• Waffle output: 20 - 35 waffles per hour

Belgian waffle makers are known for their deep grid patterns. Since Belgian waffles are made with yeast, these grids accommodate the expansion of waffle dough during the cooking process. The deeper pockets also allow more batter to be poured, resulting in a more substantial waffle. Belgian waffle makers are designed to flip, which evenly distributes waffle batter, ensures waffles cook evenly, and achieves the characteristic crispy exterior and fluffy interior that Belgian waffles are known for. It's important to note that due to the yeast in the batter and the thicker size of the waffles, Belgian waffle makers generally take longer to cook.

• Waffle shape: Round
• Waffle thickness: 1 1/4" - 1 1/2"
• Waffle output: 20 - 25 waffles per hour

Similar to Belgian waffle makers, Brussels waffle makers create waffles with deep pockets and light, crispy textures. The distinction between the two lies in their grid shapes. Unlike the round or circular grids typically found in Belgian waffle makers, Brussels waffle makers feature a rectangular or square grid shape. This shape allows for the creation of waffles that are thinner and have a more uniform appearance. The rectangular or square grid pattern also gives the waffles a distinct look, with straight edges and defined corners. Like Belgian waffle makers, some Brussels waffle makers flip, ensuring even cooking.

• Waffle shape: Rectangular
• Waffle thickness: 1 1/8"
• Waffle output: 20 - 40 waffles per hour

To achieve the signature uneven edges and caramelized sugar coating of Liege waffles, you'll need a Liege waffle maker. Also known as Belgian sugar waffles, Liege waffles are made with a batter containing pearl sugar, giving them a unique taste and texture. Their distinct grid pattern gives Liege waffles their defining uneven edges. Liege waffle makers are also designed for precision flipping and are able to flip 180 degrees as the waffles cook. These waffle makers typically feature cast-iron plates, which provide excellent heat retention and distribution.

• Waffle shape: Irregular
• Waffle thickness: 1"
• Waffle output: 20 - 40 waffles per hour

Also known as an egg waffle maker, bubble waffle makers are designed specifically for making bubble waffles, a unique egg-based waffle that originated in Hong Kong. One of the defining features of bubble waffles is their hexagonal grid shape. This design creates large air pockets within the waffle, giving it a bubbly texture. The air pockets also help to retain moisture, resulting in a waffle that is both crispy on the outside and soft, almost pancake-like, on the inside. Bubble waffle makers are typically easy to use and operate, making them a great addition to any commercial kitchen. They often feature non-stick cooking plates, allowing for easy release of the waffles and hassle-free cleaning.

• Waffle shape: Hexagonal
• Waffle thickness: Variable
• Waffle output: 20 - 25 waffles per hour

Waffle cone makers are an excellent addition to ice cream shops, concession stands, and bakeries. These machines allow you to prepare fresh waffle cones on-site, enhancing your desserts and allowing you to customize your menu. They feature extremely shallow grid patterns, which are necessary for creating thin, crisp waffle cones. Many waffle cone makers feature a non-stick design, ensuring each cone stays intact upon removal. Most waffle cone makers also feature adjustable controls, giving you full autonomy over your cones.

• Waffle shape: Round
• Waffle thickness: Variable
• Waffle output: 40 - 120 waffles per hour

A double waffle maker allows you to expand your kitchen's waffle output. These appliances are ideal for diners, cafeterias, and other high-output kitchens. They can be purchased in several different styles, allowing you to prepare the waffles that best fit your preferences. Some double waffle makers even feature independent temperature settings and timers, giving you increased control over the consistency of each waffle.

• Waffle shape: Multiple
• Waffle thickness: Variable
• Waffle output: 40 - 60 waffles per hour