Who doesn’t love the smell and taste of freshly cooked waffles?
Whether you use a store-bought batter mix or make your own, homemade waffles are an absolute treat. On the downside, no one wants to clean up the mess they create.
Traditional waffle makers are notoriously awkward to clean. The batter bakes to the machine sticks to the cooking surface and gets tangled around the hinges.

Did you know that you can buy the best waffle maker with removable plates, that for a budget-friendly cost, take all of the trouble out of cleaning?
Take a look at our reviews of the 10 best models and read the buyer’s guide and handy hints to help you to choose the best machine and how to get the best from it.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Waffle Maker With Removable Plates
1. KRUPS Belgian Waffle Maker – Top Rated Belgian Waffle Maker
Krups is a recognized brand of high-quality kitchen appliances; this waffle maker is no different.
Firstly, notice the smart and sleek design, it would complement any kitchen whilst remain compact enough to store vertically in a cabinet. It has a robust feel, it is substantial yet not too heavy to transport around the kitchen.
The cooking surface holds 4-deep waffles at a time, making this perfect for families. By the time everyone has eaten their first piping hot, fluffy waffle, the second batch is ready.
Best feature
It is so easy to use. Once the batter is prepared and the machine has heated up, it is a matter of filling it, clicking it closed, and waiting a few minutes. The loud beep will alert you that the waffles are ready. That’s all there is to it.
There is a dial with 5-color settings, 1 for lighter finishes through to number 5 that gives a golden brown color. The plates are a god-send, they are strong and have a brilliant non-stick coating, waffles release easily. Once they are cooled they can be popped into the dishwasher, ready for the next use.
Each waffle is around ¾ “ thick and the pockets are deep enough for berries, yogurt, syrup, or any filling you desire.
Pros
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Makes up to 4 large waffles
- A safe steam release system
- Removable plates for easy cleaning
- PFOA-free non-stick coating
- 5-crust color settings
Cons
- The ready beep is very loud
- The plates are not reversible, waffles only
2. Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Classic Waffle Maker
This sturdy unit from Cuisinart is a great waffle maker for the family. Using it is a cinch, there are no awkward settings, just choose your crust shade, heat it, pour in the batter, and within a few minutes, your waffles are ready.
There is no need to open the machine to check progress or set a timer. Setting the dial tells the waffle maker exactly when to stop cooking. Not only will the green led flash, but also, there will be an audible beep.
Best feature
Not only are removable waffle plates supplied, but also a set of pancake plates. They have 4-wells that are the perfect size for the perfect fluffy pancake, a whole egg, homemade hash browns, Canadian bacon, or sausage patties.
The plates easily interchange, just press the release button and clip the new plates securely into place. Everything is non-stick and can be put in the dishwasher.
It looks like a sturdy piece of equipment with its wide handle and brushed stainless steel finish. Around the rim is a small drain that catches any overflowing batter if you accidentally overfill it. This is a nice touch as cleaning baked-on batter can be a real chore.
It is easy to use, versatile, and evenly browns multiple ingredients.
Pros
- Removable, interchangeable cooking plates
- 6-shade settings
- LED lights and sounds to alert readiness
- Robust construction
- Family-sized
- Dishwasher safe
- Silicon tongs and recipe book included
Cons
- Be vigilant – the outside gets warm
- Season the plates with oil between uses to maintain the non-stick properties
3. Presto Ceramic Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Ceramic Waffle Makers
This waffle maker mimics professional-style machines that you may have seen in waffle houses. Once it is heated, the user should ladle the batter into the center of the plate, and close and lock the machine. Set the timer and now for the magic. Use the handle and flip the machine 180 degrees on its axle.
This ensures the batter spreads evenly and reaches every edge of the cooking surface. Evenly cooked, perfect crisp waffles have never been easier, or so much fun to make.
Best feature
The cooking surface is ceramic. This means it is baked in a kiln at exceptionally high temperatures. There are no chemicals involved so you can be assured of a non-toxic, healthy cooking surface. Waffles will release easily without the need for any oil or seasoning and you need never worry about black bits flaking into your food.
Although the plates don’t remove for cleaning, ceramic is notoriously easy to clean. Your waffle will flip out in one simple motion, leaving nothing behind. Whilst the machine is still warm give it a quick wipe with a damp cloth. That is it!
The timer allows you to set the cooking time that provides your ideal color and crispness results. One big circular waffle with deep pockets and a fluffy center takes just 4 or more minutes.
Pros
- 1-year limited warranty
- Affordable
- A healthy, safe non-stick cooking surface
- No oil or seasoning required
- Locks in a vertical position for easy storage
- Brushed stainless steel durable construction
- Makes extra-thick waffles
Cons
- More suited to single people or couples
- No temperature setting, just a minute timer
- The plates aren’t removable
4. Hamilton Beach Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Waffle Maker With Removable Plates
This is the second flip-style waffle maker that we have featured. It’s a fun gadget that makes one large crispy Belgian waffle. It is made from durable stainless steel and is a solid, well-made machine. Although it isn’t large, it doesn’t fold in any way for storage so ensure you have space if you’re not going to leave it on the counter.
It works by flipping the cooking surface through 180-degrees to help the batter reach every single inch. Each waffle will be perfectly rounded, unlike other styles that struggle to make complete waffles.
The aluminum cooking plates have a non-stick coating that releases food easily with just a little spray of oil before each use. Use a silicone spatula and watch the waffle release easily.
Best feature
The machine leaves exact cutting lines in the waffle so if you don’t choose to keep it as an entire 6-inch circle, it will easily snap into 4-smaller waffles. The adjustable browning control can satisfy everyone’s personal choice, whether you prefer a softer, pale waffle or a golden brown crispy one.
The drip tray is a fabulous idea. Instead of excess batter baking to the machine or messing up your counters, it collects in the drip tray. It can then be removed, along with the waffle plates, and popped into the dishwasher.
Pros
- Cool-touch handle for safety
- Adjustable shade control
- Robust design
- Flip-style make perfect shaped waffles every time
- Plates are easily removed for cleanup
Cons
- No beep to alert readiness
- Requires some lubrication before each use
- Only makes waffles, the plates don’t reverse
5. George Foreman Waffle Maker – Best Budget Waffle Maker
We think most people have heard of George Foreman Grilling machines over the years. They are a practical and healthy way of cooking multiple styles of food in a fast and healthy manner. The angle of the machine and the drip tray ensure all unhealthy fats are drained away.
For this review, we are going to look at the waffle-making capabilities of the George Foreman. The ceramic grill plates unclip and can be replaced with aluminum, non-stick coated waffle plates. You can make 2-large traditional American-style waffles in just a few short minutes.
Best feature
The digital function of the machine allows you to set an exact temperature and time. With a little trial and error, you can perfect the settings and get wonderfully colored and tasting waffles with every use.
The plates release easily, just one -click and they come free. Ensure you push the waffle plates firmly and hear them lock into position. They cool down very quickly and are dishwasher safe to make cleanup fast and simple.
All of the coatings are either ceramic or PFOA and PTFE-free, allowing you to be assured of safe, chemical-free cooking. Ceramic surfaces allow food to release easily, just as these waffles do.
This is a fantastic machine that is very versatile. Not only can you cook perfect waffles, but also steaks, chicken, vegetables, and lovely thick sandwiches and paninis.
Pros
- Versatile machine that cooks so much more than waffles
- Total control with a digital pad
- Flush controls wipe clean easily
- Dishwasher-safe removable plates
- Very easy food release
Cons
- Not all models come with waffle plates – check
- Use less batter than directed, it will overflow!
6. Secura Upgrade Belgian Waffle Maker – Best Quality Waffle Maker
This rotational-style waffle maker is a nifty gadget. With easy-to-follow instructions and heavy-duty construction, it is sure to be an integral part of your kitchen equipment for years to come.
You will need just 1-cup of batter to create the perfect waffle, a large circular Belgian one with pre-scored lines to easily break it into quarters. The handle remains cool during use to prevent accidents, it is deep enough to keep fingers away from the stainless steel body.
Assembly couldn’t be easier. It comes in 2-parts and requires the user to snap a ball joint into place in the housing unit.
Best feature
Unlike a flip-style waffle maker that only does a 180-degree flip, this machine does the full 360 degrees. Once it has heated and been loaded, raise the handle to a right angle and spin the pan through 360 degrees to help the batter reach every single part of the cooking surface.
All of your waffles will not only be evenly shaped but also have perfectly uniform crusts. The waffle plates remove with the click of a button, they are dishwasher safe although, the durable non-stick coating means they wipe over by hand just as easily.
Once your machine has reached temperature, it is always advisable to brush a light coating of oil across them to aid food release. This is a good waffle maker for identical waffles with every use.
Pros
- Easy to remove plates for fast cleanup
- Full rotation for perfect waffles
- Fast heating coil
- The entire thing disassembles quickly for cleaning
- Fast re-heat between uses
Cons
- Be prepared for slight smoke and burning odor at 1st use
- The LEDs are quite dim
- No audible beep
7. T-fal Waffle Maker – best Non Stick Waffle Maker
Who knew that you could improve on the ability to make hot, crispy waffles in your own home?
Well, you can, and this could well be the best home waffle maker for the money – why?
Because it doubles up as a pocket sandwich maker!
Best feature
There are 2-different pairs of plates that are easily interchangeable. With one click you can swap 1 out and replace it with the other. The first is a high-quality, non-stick-coated aluminum set of waffle plates. You can make 2-large Belgian waffles with lovely deep pockets.
Secondly is a set of sandwich plates capable of making 2 large toasted sandwiches, hobos, or ‘toasties’ as the Brits call them. Fill thin sandwich bread and place it on the hot surface. The machine will seal, cook, and cut them in half.
Removable plates are dishwasher safe but the non-stick coating is of such high quality that a quick rinse beneath the faucet is sufficient. Bright indicator lights illuminate throughout the cooking process to let you know at what stage you’re at.
We love how light the machine is, it is easy to transport anywhere. Once the cord is wrapped securely, you simply store it vertically in a cabinet. This is a perfect gift for a house-warming, or better still for a student moving away from home for the 1st time.
Pros
- Dual-purpose machine
- PFOA-free non-stick coating
- The removable plates are dishwasher safe
- Compact storage
- Easy to use
Cons
- The body of the machine is quite fiddly to clean
- Overfilling waffle trays creates a baked-on mess
- Thinner bread seals more easily than thick
8. BLACK+DECKER Waffle Maker – Best Waffle And Sandwich Maker
If you’re looking to make waffles just like your grandma used to make, this is possibly the machine for you. It is the best home waffle maker for traditional, classic waffles, you know, the thinner, crispier type with a little bit of chew.
At any one time, you can make 4-large tasty waffles in just a few minutes. The waffle plates take a short time to heat up, require a tiny brush of oil, and cook each waffle evenly.
Indicator lights tell you when the machine has reached temperature, and when cooking time is done. Use the dial to set low, medium, or high temperatures depending on your crust color and consistency preference.
Best feature
When your waffle making is done, flip out the waffle plates and reverse them. Click them back into place and you have flat cooking surfaces. Use them as a grill for sandwiches, steaks, or vegetables. Open the machine out flat and you have a double-sided, 8-portion griddle suitable for eggs, bacon, and a multitude of other things.
It is a very healthy way to cook as channels catch grease and it runs off into a waiting trough.
We love the modern styling of this machine, the chrome, and black complement not only each other but most kitchens. This is a hugely versatile machine that has a small footprint as it can be stored upright.
Pros
- Multi-functional, 3-in-1 machine, reversible plates
- Makes 4-large classic style waffles
- Adjustable temperature dial
- Tough stainless steel construction
- Cool-touch technology in the deep handle
Cons
- Not dishwasher compatible
- Not as heavy-duty as some models
9. Aicok Black Waffle Maker – Best Mini Waffle Maker
With 3-removable plates, this handy machine can switch from a waffle maker to a grill or sandwich toaster just by easily switching out plates.
The waffle maker is easy to operate, it is just a matter of heating the machine and pouring in the batter. Once it is closed it has a safety locking feature to ensure it remains closed throughout the whole cooking process. Other safety features include rubber anti-slip feet and a sturdy, heatproof handle.
Easy-clean, non-stick grids let the waffles release easily and can be popped into the dishwasher to clean. The coating is very durable and happily is free from PFOA.
Best feature
The machine is versatile enough to cook a wide variety of foods, whilst remaining small, compact, and portable. It is ideal to use in an RV, at the office, or better still, in a student’s dorm. If space is at a premium it is perfect as it requires little storage room as it stands upright.
When the product isn’t being used as a waffle-maker, it has a floating hinge. This allows the cooking surfaces to move further apart to allow for thicker ingredients. Thick sandwiches, paninis, or chunky steaks can all be cooked to perfection.
Pros
- 2-year warranty & 30-day money-back guarantee
- 3 cooking styles with interchangeable plates
- Very easy to use and to clean
- Dishwasher safe plates
- Stainless steel housing provides overheating protection
Cons
- It can only cook 2-waffles at a time
- No power switch
- No temperature adjusting dial
10. All-Clad Stainless Steel Waffle Maker – Best Electric Waffle Maker
Have we saved the best ’til last in our waffle maker reviews? Very possibly.
All-Clad is a respected brand of high-quality small kitchen appliances and their Belgian waffle maker follows suit.
The housing unit is made from polished stainless steel that would complement any commercial or home kitchen. We recommend it for business use due to its advanced heating technology, reheating and cooking times are faster than many other models.
The chunky handle holds the locking mechanism. This ensures the lid stays in place as the baking process happens and also keeps the machine locked tight should you choose to store it vertically.
Best feature
When condensation builds up inside a waffle maker or any electrical cooking appliance, the contents will turn soggy. That is the last thing you want of Belgian waffles that are famed for their crispy outer shells. All-Clad’s machine has an integrated steam release valve that ensures waffles are cooked to perfection every time.
There are huge 7-shade settings for you to choose the color of your crust. You will have great fun tasting all of your efforts from different modes until you find the crust of your choice.
If you have a busy, noisy family, this is the ideal waffle maker for you. If you don’t notice the indicator lights tell you that your food is ready, you will most certainly hear the bleep it emits! This is an elegant, classy, and impressive waffle maker that will last for a very long time.
Pros
- Sophisticated polished stainless steel body
- 7-shade options
- Steam release system for perfect results
- PFOA-free, tough non-stick plates
- The plates and drip tray are dishwashers approved
Cons
- The most expensive product in our waffle maker reviews
- No interchangeable plates are supplied
What to look for in the top-rated waffle maker?
Our featured waffle makers might all cook great waffles but they have varying factors that will make them the ideal fit for your kitchen.
Size
Some machines can cook 4-large waffles simultaneously, others only prepare 1. If you’re cooking for a family, consider a larger machine to reduce waiting time.
Larger machines will require more storage space, although most can be stood vertically and slotted away neatly. Flip-style machines often aren’t as convenient to store but look great on display and complement a kitchen’s décor.
Style
Flip-style machines are fun to use and tend to make a perfectly shaped waffle more successfully. However, they only make a single large waffle per operation. The same applies to rotational machines.
Sandwich-style machines that involve closing and locking a lid are a popular choice with families and larger grilling machines offer greater versatility.
Cooking surface
Whether your preference is for aluminum with a tough non-stick coating or a ceramic cooking surface, all choices are catered for.
Waffle type
Do you prefer thin traditional style waffles or crispier, fluffier Belgian-style waffles? Each machine will only make one of the other.
Removable/reversible plates
Interchangeable cooking plates are versatile. Ideal for more than waffles alone, some can make pancakes, omelets, and sausage patties. They also make the cleanup process a great deal easier.
Operation
Waffle makers should be simple and safe to use. Dial temperature and timer gauges are useful and bright LEDs alert the user when food is ready.
Loud, audible beeps enable the user to walk away from the machine and still be alerted when cooking time is through.
Temperature control
Our waffle maker reviews feature a few models that have adjustable timing and temperature settings. Most rely on indicator lights and a 1-consistent pre-set temperature.
Safety
Waffle makers reach high temperatures; the outer bodies should not get too hot. Some models come with silicone tongs to remove the piping hot waffles and protect fingers.
Safety locking latches and storage space for power cords are some other nice features.
How do you remove the plates from a waffle iron?
The owner’s manual comes with clear instructions on how you are supposed to remove the plate. If you don’t have the instructions, relax. Remove the waffle from the plate using a spatula before snapping the plate from the waffle iron.
Why do waffle irons flip?
Flipping allows the batter to spread evenly to cook faster. Again the batter thickens nicely, giving you a perfect final product. If in business, your waffles will look good, thus attracting many customers.
How to make perfect waffles with/without removable plates?
Follow these steps
- Gather the right ingredients that include all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, sugar, milk, egg, milk extract, and oil.
- Mix the wet ingredients first, sieve the dry ones, mix the two and whisk them thoroughly.
- Preheat the waffle and test if it’s hot by pouring two drops of water on the waffle. If the water swizzles and evaporate immediately, it’s hot enough.
- Use a pastry brush to wipe the waffle maker. It will protect the waffles from sticking.
- Add the batter to the waffle maker and cover it. Wait for 5 minutes, and the waffler maker will beep, and the steam will stop coming out.
- Open the waffle and if it’s sticking, gives it a few minutes since undercooked waffles normally stick.
- Once it’s ready, allow it to cool, then open the waffle maker. Use a spatula to remove the waffle.
- Add your favorite topping and enjoy your meal.
Why choose waffle maker removable plates?
Although people love waffles, not may love cleaning the waffle maker afterward. But with the removable plate, cleaning is much easier. You can clean it using your hands, or you can use the dishwasher. It helps the waffle get a nice brownish color and flip the waffle quickly.
How do I keep my waffles from sticking?
You can only know how to prevent sticking once you understand the leading cause. Waffles stick if you put the batter when the iron is not yet hot. The same happens if the batter you are using is too thin or you have undercooked it. Expect it to stick if you fail to use eggs, less, or excess batter oil.
You can avoid this by adding enough oil before you start cooking. You should also wait for the waffle maker to get hot enough. Avoid the cooking spray and thicken the batter nicely.
Cleaning and maintaining waffle maker
If you have ever used a traditional waffle maker you will remember just how messy the whole situation can get. Using the tiniest bit of too much batter can cause it to ooze out and create a terrible mess.
Not only that but getting into every nook and cranny of the cooking grid is so difficult if it is fixed in place.
That is where removable plates are a godsend. They can simply clip out of the machine and be wiped over, cleaned under running water, or fully immersed in a bowl of warm soapy water.
Plenty of the waffle makers in our reviews have removable waffle plates that can go in the dishwasher. Once the plates are removed, the rest of the body is easier to access and clean.
We recommend using a silicone brush to add a very thin coating of oil before each use of your waffle maker. Allow it to heat up and add a light coating of any oil with a high smoking point, such as sunflower or peanut.
This will maintain effortless food release and add life and durability to the non-stick coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditional American-style waffles are often shallow and rectangular. The grids aren’t very deep and they have a crunchy and chewy consistency.
Belgian waffles are taller and have deeper pockets. They have crisper outsides and the center is softer and fluffier. The deep pockets are designed to hold multiple fillings, including berries, ice cream, syrup, or yogurt.
Pure Belgian waffles are made with yeast or egg white to achieve fluffiness. Traditional waffles rely on baking powder.
We know where you are coming from. Sometimes it is difficult to spread the batter into every corner of a hot cooking plate.
Flip-style and rotational machines encourage the batter to fill the entire plate and usually give great results.
Getting a complete waffle every time is about getting the amount of batter you use just right. Enough to spread evenly, not so much that it overflows and creates a mess.
Absolutely!
Batch cooking waffles is the way to go if you need to save time in hectic mornings. Cook and freeze your waffles – we recommend putting greaseproof paper between each one to prevent them from sticking together.
Take out your waffles and pop them into the toaster. Within a couple of minutes, they will taste as if they have been freshly baked.
You are only bound by your imagination. You can add things to the batter to give the waffle a different flavor, such as cocoa powder or lemon zest. If you make deep-pocketed Belgian waffles there are a myriad of toppings you can add to make both sweet and savory treats.
We love fresh berries and a dusting of icing sugar, natural yogurt over strawberries, or plain waffles drowned in maple syrup. Cream cheese and celery, or smoked salmon and horseradish toppings are a twist and will impress your guests.
A Belgian waffler is thicker, larger, fluffier, and crispier than the classic waffle. It’s less dense but has deeper pockets compared to the classic waffle.
Hamilton Beach Flip Belgian waffle maker is the best easy-to-clean waffle maker. Its popularity has increased due to the ease with which you can flip the thick waffle. Once the waffles are ready, you can clean the waffle maker easily, fold the handles and store it. The stainless steel material in this waffle gives it high durability.
They are perfect for anyone looking to make some high-quality crispy waffles with a golden brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. They cook faster and contain flip and rotate features making your cooking convenient.
Yes, Pancake mix has basic ingredients similar to the waffle batter. Once you add the pancake mix to the waffle iron, it will become a waffle.
You should give it at least four-six minutes and check if there is any steam coming from it. Some makers will produce light by then, indicating that the waffle is ready.
The two main signs include a beep or lighting from the waffle maker or when the steam stops coming out.
Best Waffle Maker Removable Plates – Our Conclusion
Once you have selected the best waffle iron with removable plates for your needs, the waffle world is your oyster!
Packet mixes or homemade batters work equally well and give delicious, hot results. Load your machine up, let it do all of the work, and then enjoy many waffles with as many different toppings as you can think of.