Tested and Approved: If you want a premium waffle iron we recommend trying Cuisinart WMR-CAP2 Waffle Maker. However, the Palmer Electric Waffle Maker is the best option for those who don’t mind investing money in a premium-quality waffle machine.
The problem with the thick Belgian waffles is that they are overly fluffy and lack crispiness, and they can be excessive for health-conscious persons. An excellent alternative to this thick and delicious homemade dessert is the classic thin waffles that are perfect for a Sunday brunch or even a quick breakfast potluck.
Since an ideal thin waffle maker must be lightweight, sturdy, and come with temperature control options to prepare waffles, we’ve done the job of finding the best option for you. After a thorough research of a month, and testing over a dozen brands making thin waffle makers, we’ve compiled a list of the best waffle makers that comply with all the requirements for making the ideal thin and crispy waffles for breakfast.
Difference Between Thin And Belgian Waffles
The basic difference between thin and Belgian waffles is their texture and thickness. Thin waffles, often referred to as American or classic waffles, are relatively slender with a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. They cook up quickly and are known for their simplicity.
On the other hand, Belgian waffles are thicker, and fluffier, and tend to have deeper grid patterns. They’re larger and have a lighter, airy texture. Belgian waffles are also slightly sweeter due to the use of a yeast-based batter or beaten egg whites. They are often served with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or syrup.
Why Thin Waffles Are a Good Choice?
So, thin waffles have their own merits, they’re thin and crispy, requiring less cooking time, making them a convenient choice for a quick breakfast. Their simplicity and quick cooking allow customizing these waffles with toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, or even savory options like fried chicken. While Belgian waffles offer a fluffier, sweeter experience, thin waffles shine in their practicality and adaptability for a quick and delightful meal.
What recipes can I make with waffles iron?
Apart from making traditional waffles, you can use a thin waffle iron to make hash browns and crispy golden-brown potato waffles. You can also try making paninis with pre-made dough—simply press it between the iron plates for a toasty sandwich in minutes. For dessert, experiment with brownies or cookie dough for scrumptious, gooey treats. You can even make “waffled” omelets by pouring beaten eggs and toppings onto the hot iron.
Recommended: Best Non-Toxic Waffle Makers
8 Best Thin Waffle Makers At A Glance
- Best Overall: Cuisinart WMR-CAP2 Classic
- Best Non-Stick: Chef’s Choice 840 WafflePro
- Kids’ Favourite: Uncanny Brands Marvel’s Spiderman Waffle Maker
- Best Value For Money: All-Clad WD700162
- Best Budget: Black + Decker WMB500
- Best For A Big Family: Palmer 1110
- Best Multipurpose: Dash Deluxe No-Drip Belgian Waffle Maker
- Best Stainless Steel: Krups Breakfast Set Stainless Steel Waffle Maker
Cuisinart WMR-CAP2 Classic Waffle Maker
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
The first thing you notice about this thin waffle maker is how light it is in terms of weight. Weighing a little more than 4 pounds, and a 9-inch diameter makes it portable when you take it out or store it after usage. And, despite its 4-inch height, there is still enough space for air circulation and any heat to escape between the appliance and your counter surface.
The Cuisinart WMR-CA is a non-flip model that bakes one round, thin waffle at a time. Although modest in size, the waffles produced are still larger than the frozen waffles found in grocery stores.
As opposed to the Belgian waffles, the WMR-CA makes thin waffles with 6.5-7 inches of diameter and a thickness of around 0.5 inches. The waffles produced by CuisinArt can retain syrup and even fruit toppings. At under $30, you get a thicker-than-Eggo waffle with a crispy outside and delicate interior.
I also liked the browning controls feature with five color settings; you can make waffles from light brown to dark. To prevent overcooking the thermostat lets you control the heat inside the iron.
Thanks to its LED indicators, you’ll get to know when waffles are baked to the desired level of browning. The time of waffle making is another factor I was impressed as this waffle iron takes about 2 to 3 minutes depending on the batter recipe. Overall, its heat settings, level of crispiness, and baking time are all impressive.
Made with a brushed stainless steel body and two non-stick baking plates, its overall construction is quite durable. However, it lacks detachable grids and cannot be immersed in water. Secondly, the stainless steel surface heats up to the point where it can burn your hand or arm after a few minutes of operation. Furthermore, it has a bunch of areas where the extra batter can seep into, making it difficult to clean.
Overall, its compact size, affordable pricing, and browning control features are what makes it the best thin waffle maker for working moms to make a quick breakfast or a brunch for the office.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart – Target
Chef’sChoice 840 WafflePro
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
If you are looking for a compact traditional waffle maker with more features, I recommend you have a look at the Chef’s Choice 840 WafflePro. Thanks to multiple baking options (including deep bake and crispy exterior with a delicate interior), and the temperature control feature you can choose which type of waffles you want in the required time.
By adjusting the color options, you can choose the waffles from golden to brown. To prevent overbaking, this tiny waffle maker features a quick temperature recovery. The best part is that the whole baking process takes 90 seconds to make a crispy waffle.
Thanks to its LED and beep indicators, you can make your waffles conveniently while doing other kitchen tasks. Furthermore, to make sure that the batter bakes uniformly, its “floating hinge” closes the lid properly and stays that way, ensuring that the waffles get a uniform thickness.
To prevent dried-up batter around the edges, and for a simpler cleaning experience, the 840 Waffle Pro’s overflow channel encircles the bottom plate. For storage, you may keep the waffle maker upright or lie down by storing the cable in a compartment that is incorporated into the appliance.
Although the 840 Waffle Pro makes heart-shaped waffles, these are a little thicker than several alternatives of a similar size. Besides, the five waffles produced are comparatively smaller in size. After multiple cleanings, the white print on the controls fades away and you have to memorize which button controls what function.
Overall, this is a classic waffle maker that lets you make a stack of waffles on a platter. Your waffles will be cooked to perfection thanks to its excellent heat and cooking options.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart – BestBuy – Target
Uncanny Brands Marvel’s Spiderman Waffle Maker
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Adored by both adults and kids who love Marvel superheroes, this classic waffle maker leaves an imprint of a Spiderman mask on your waffles. Besides, the waffles produced are also thin and crisp.
Starting with the artwork featuring Spiderman on the lid, this waffle maker is guaranteed to add excitement to any kitchen setting. While the body is of stainless steel the cooking plates are made of die-cast aluminum. In addition to having a compact shape, it is also portable weighing only 3.3 pounds which makes it a perfect present option too.
With this waffle maker, you can make 6-7 inches round waffles without worrying about leaving a mess, because the plates are easy to clean. Although it features LED indicators to let you know about baking cycles, the lack of temperature controls makes it a bit tricky to use for a newbie. Overall, this is the most adorable waffle maker you can use to make different thicknesses of waffles you want for your kids.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart – BestBuy – UncannyBrands
Black + Decker WMB500
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
The reason I love the Black+Decker WMB500 is its affordability in making fine waffles.
Although Black+Decker terms this waffle maker as a “Belgian” type, many experts disagree with this claim. The waffles pockets of WMB500 are deep enough to contain honey or any other desired toppings, yet the heating plates fall short in terms of depth when compared to a “true Belgian iron”.
The first thing that you will love about this hybrid waffle iron is a grid with four sections to make four waffles with different toppings, like whipped cream, blueberries, honey, or even a spoonful of fat-free yogurt.
As far as the nonstick coating is concerned the waffles glide off the grids easily making the cleaning a breeze. The best part is that the grill plates imprint the crisscross pattern into the waffles. Thanks to the cool-touch handles, you can move the grills conveniently without worrying about getting your hands or fingers burnt while serving.
With its non-stick plates, you can experiment with pastries, sandwiches, and even brownies. Since this waffle grill is so lightweight and portable, you can carry it around on a vacation. It is also small enough to fit in any storage space and can be stored vertically.
As for its features, this minimalist model doesn’t even have temperature controls or power buttons, making it difficult to use for individuals who prefer their waffles with a specific color and crisp. For this purpose, you’ll need to check out the Chef’sChoice 840 WafflePro. Besides having limited alert options, its red light isn’t even a good indicator. and on your first tries, you may end up with underbaked or overbaked waffles.
Nevertheless, the highlights of this product are its efficient grills, compact size, and low price tag. If you are a beginner looking for the best budget waffle iron to make thin waffles, Black and Decker’s WMB500 is a good choice for a start.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart – HomeDepot
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All-Clad WD700162
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
The All-Clad WD700162 is exceptionally well-made and capable of serving thin waffles. Thanks to its stunning build made of sleek, polished stainless steel, the All-Clad Stainless Steel is one of the best mid-sized waffle makers to make 6.5-inch circular waffles. Featuring polished steel riveted handles and a secure latch-locking mechanism, this waffle iron is safe to use while making breakfast for your kids.
For customization in making waffles, you can choose how crispy waffles you want, thanks to its seven adjustable knob settings, and efficient alert notification so that you are aware of its pre-heating and cooking status.
To add a boost to the waffle maker’s performance, this All-Clad waffle maker releases steam so that your waffle has an ideal balance of crispness further preventing waffles from becoming soggy. Although it makes one large waffle, the serrated lines on the hot plate allow you to cut the large waffle into four pieces.
Coming toward drawbacks, the nonstick coating isn’t very effective, so you’ll need to use cooking oil or spray to prevent your waffles from sticking to the iron. Besides, the higher toasting temperature can cause uneven browning and ruin the aesthetic, that’s why you may need to watch your waffles constantly to prevent overcooking.
Overall, the convenience of use, combined with the premium material and customizable cooking modes make the All-Clad WD700162 the top choice for making thin waffles.
Recommended: 7 Best Bubble Waffle Makers We’ve Tested
Palmer 1110 Waffle Maker
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
If you are looking for a waffle maker that allows making thin crispy waffles and waffle cones, waffle bowls, or stroopwafel pastries at home, the Palmer Electric Thin Belgian Cookie Iron is the best choice for you. This cast aluminum waffle maker makes two waffles simultaneously, allowing you to cook twice the waffles as a side dish for a potluck or holiday.
Right out of the box, the Palmer Waffle Maker requires a wipe of oil or butter, and your waffles and cookies are guaranteed to easily slide from the pan. Since it warms up quickly and also includes an automated thermostat, you don’t have to wait to preheat this appliance. The waffle iron keeps its heat well after it is turned on, which helps the waffles to cook nicely and uniformly. It also features a non-skid bottom to remain stable while baking.
And for downsides, although cast aluminum is easy to clean, it still doesn’t come close to the nonstick coating. You’ll need to use oil in your recipes or mist the iron with oil. It is still a heavier model, although the long handles make it comfortable to flip for even distribution of batter. In contrast to the other waffle makers on this list, this waffle iron lacks browning controls. Determining how crispy you want your waffles to be will require trial and error multiple times.
Overall, the Palmer Electric Thin Belgian Cookie Iron is the best choice if you’re looking for a high-quality appliance that can produce waffles, stroopwafels, ice cream cones, and other desserts.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart
Dash Deluxe No-Drip Waffle Maker
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
From savory to sweet, keto to paleo to vegan; enjoy a plate of traditional waffles, hash browns, tasty cheddar waffles, or dear “dessert” waffles with ice cream — there are so many alternatives you can try with this Dash Deluxe waffle iron. It is easy to use, efficient, and provides you the opportunity to make square waffles.
With Dash Delux, you can make up to four crispy waffles with golden, delectable insides in each batch thanks to the four PFOA-free nonstick plates. The waffle plates’ uniform heating elements provide consistently cooked crispy waffles with deep pockets for toppings like syrup, butter, and fruits.
The best feature of Dash Delux Waffle Maker is its Non-drip mechanism in which the batter doesn’t overrun the sides or spill onto your surfaces thanks to this overflow channel. In addition to that, the waffles glide straight out of the pan when they are done, golden, and toasted, and the Healthy TruGlide nonstick plates will require a simple cleaning. So to the clean-freaks out there, this is the waffle maker you need in your kitchen.
Keep in mind that you will have to compromise on temperature control settings, audio indicators, and on/off switches. However, given that this square-thin waffle maker lies on the budget side of the spectrum, these lacking are a given.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart – BestBuy – UncannyBrands
Krups Breakfast Set Stainless Steel Waffle Maker
Features & Specs:
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
The first thing I like about this KRUPS waffle maker is that it can effectively cater to the needs of making 4 waffles to enjoy breakfast together with family.
You can adjust the temperature settings according to your requirements to cook waffles. I love dark waffles, and this waffle maker allows me to get my desired color with adjustable levels. Thanks to its removable plates, you can easily remove its pads and clean them properly after use.
The light indications help me to know my waffles are ready to come out of the machine. When the waffles are ready, the light turns green, and an audible beep alerts you to finish the waffle baking.
Moreover, the size of the maker is also perfect. It fits in my kitchen drawer perfectly, and its sleek black design gives it a modern look that matches my other kitchen appliances.
As for the downside, its handle gets very hot after making some waffles.
Overall, it is a great choice, if you are looking for large waffle maker to make multiple waffles in one go.
You can also buy this waffle maker at Walmart – Crate & Barrel
Buying Tips To Choose The Best Thin Waffle Maker:
- It should be simple and quick to use a waffle maker. Products that normally provide a cooking time between 2-5 minutes are acceptable. Although the choice is ultimately yours, it is recommended to avoid other alternatives with cooking times that are substantially greater than this. However, the quickest non-Belgian Waffle Makers will cost a bit more.
- You also need to have some degree of control over the waffles you make. The best choices will include temperature settings so you can select and manage how crisp your waffle will become during the cooking process. While some of the more expensive appliances feature up to seven temperature controls, others may have up to two or three. If you want the same waffles every day, variation in controls isn’t needed.
- Thin waffle makers are a bit costlier than Belgian Waffle Makers. Although, there are a few non-Belgian waffle makers that fit within the average and affordable price bracket you should remember that here, design and quality are crucial. Therefore, don’t be afraid of investing money.
- The cleaning-up process should be in your mind as you choose a waffle maker. It’s a good idea to search for phrases like “non-stick”. It is also recommended to get a thin waffle maker with removable plates. So that you won’t have to spend an absurd amount of time cleaning up after you spent your time and energy cooking the waffles in the first place, look for non-stick choices and materials that are simpler to clean.
- Also, take note of how many waffles you intend to make. If you plan to prepare for a large group, search for waffle makers that can cook several waffles at once. Alternatively, you may prepare a single, enormous waffle and cut it into multiple, small pieces. Several less expensive waffle machines can just create one waffle.
- Weight is also crucial, particularly if you intend to travel the waffle maker. Look for something that is easier to carry and can be retrieved from a tall cabinet.
How We Tested These Waffle Maker?
We engaged TheLadyChef’s internal specialists to identify the best thin waffle makers. Following our examination of these products, we gathered consumer feedback from a variety of sources. A ranking of the top thin waffle makers was created using the opinions of dieticians and culinary specialists. After carefully examining crucial characteristics such as waffle depth, temperature settings, indicator lights, portability, and price range, the list was narrowed down.
Why You Should Trust TheLadyChef
We strive to make sure the information you receive has been carefully evaluated and is as up-to-date as possible. To ensure that you obtain the best kitchen accessories and appliances, our knowledgeable team of analysts ensures that the kitchen products are thoroughly tested and analyzed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make thin crispy waffles?
Using oil makes your batter thinner than butter does, and the thin batter will crisp your waffle maker the most. For the crispiest waffles, cornstarch is another ingredient you can use. Waffles are guaranteed to be precisely crisp and delicate with cornstarch. The waffles rise and brown due to the baking soda and powder so it is recommended to use both.
Should I buy Flip Waffle Makers?
In case you don’t pour enough batter, flip waffle makers are made to distribute the batter equally. To guarantee that your batter is uniformly distributed and will cook, they are usually preferable for producing Belgian waffles. It’s an excellent feature, but it’s not required to generate crispy waffles.