Waffles have been a breakfast time favorite for generations. More than a century ago, women would prepare waffles in the hearth using a waffle iron attached to tongs with a wooden handle to keep the iron over the heat while the batter inside baked to a delectable crispy brown. Thank goodness today waffle irons are self contained and electric allowing the modern home maker to make waffles much simpler and easier than days gone by.
Most of today's waffle irons are small electric kitchen appliances that are heated by an electric element controlled by a thermostat. Many of these modern appliances have lights that tell you when the iron waffle iron is heated enough to pour the batter in and another light that tells you when your waffle is completely cooked.
These appliances also have setting levels so you can choose just how brown and crispy you want your waffle to be taking much of the guess work out of waffle making. Most waffle irons also come with a non stick surface making cleanup a snap.
Shapes and Sizes
There are many shapes and sizes found in today's waffle irons. Not only can you get round, rectangle, and square irons but you can also get other shapes such as hearts and cartoon characters as well.
You also have a choice in the size of appliance you purchase and how many waffles it will make at one time. While some waffle makers only make one or two huge waffles, others will make as many as 5 or 6 small ones. This means that you can make the size you want based on your families appetite.
Some of these appliances make thicker waffles than do others. Thinner waffles are often called traditional whereas the thicker waffles are known as Belgian waffles.
Who Makes Them
There are a number of companies that make these appliances, Cuisinart, Black and Decker, and Kitchen Aid are just a few of the many manufacturers of this product. Each company offers it own unique designs and features and when shopping for a new waffle iron it pays to look at what each company has to offer and read the reviews of each product to determine which of these appliances are right for you and your family.
Where to Buy
These appliances can be found in any store that carries kitchen appliances. Some stores will carry more models and brand names than others. You can also find these appliances online often at discount prices. Where you buy your appliance from will be more a choice of who carries the brand you want at a price you can afford. Comparison shopping in this case can definitely save you money.
If you truly love waffles and would like to enjoy them on your next camping trip you might want to check the camping supply department of your favorite sporting goods store as they often carry camping versions of this product.
Today's waffle irons are easier to use than ever before and it may be worth owning one if you really enjoy waffles.
