Cast iron waffle makers are a classic kitchen appliance that have been around for generations. They are known for their durability and ability to produce crispy, golden waffles that are perfect for any meal. If you’re in the market for a new waffle maker, a cast iron waffle maker is an excellent choice.
When it comes to purchasing a cast iron waffle maker, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of the waffle maker. If you have a large family or frequently entertain guests, you may want to opt for a larger waffle maker that can make multiple waffles at once. Additionally, consider the weight of the waffle maker. Cast iron is a heavy material, so make sure you choose a waffle maker that you can easily lift and maneuver.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a cast iron waffle maker is the quality of the cast iron. Look for a waffle maker that is made from high-quality, seasoned cast iron. This will ensure that your waffles cook evenly and are easy to remove from the waffle maker.
We spent hours researching and testing various cast iron waffle makers to identify the best ones on the market. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best cast iron waffle maker, based on factors like quality, size, and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned waffle maker or just starting out, we’ve got you covered.
Best Cast Iron Waffle Makers
We’ve done the research and testing to bring you the best cast iron waffle makers on the market. These waffle makers are perfect for creating crispy, golden waffles that are evenly cooked every time. Whether you prefer classic Belgian waffles or heart-shaped waffles, our list has got you covered. So, without further ado, here are the best cast iron waffle makers that you can buy right now.
Lot45 Cast Iron Waffle Maker Pan – 6in Stove Top Waffle Iron Cookware, Portable Camping Breakfast Maker for Stovetop
If you’re looking for a portable and durable cast iron waffle maker for your camping trips, the Lot45 Cast Iron Waffle Maker Pan is worth considering.
Pros
- Cooks delicious waffles over campfire, gas stove, or 2-burner camp stove.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution and retention.
Cons
- Not pre-seasoned and requires some effort to season properly.
- Small size may not be ideal for larger groups.
- Can be tricky to clean due to the crevices.
We’ve used this waffle maker on several camping trips and have been impressed with its performance. The waffles come out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked waffles every time.
However, it’s important to note that the waffle maker does not come pre-seasoned, so you’ll need to season it properly before use. Additionally, the small size may not be ideal for larger groups, as you can only make one waffle at a time. Finally, cleaning the waffle maker can be a bit tricky due to the crevices, but with some effort, it can be done.
Overall, we would recommend the Lot45 Cast Iron Waffle Maker Pan for anyone looking for a portable and durable waffle maker for their camping trips.
Lehman’s Cast Iron Waffle Maker
If you’re looking for a durable cast iron waffle maker that will last for years, Lehman’s Cast Iron Waffle Maker is a great option.
Pros
- Makes delicious, crispy waffles on any stove or grill
- Cast iron heats evenly and holds heat well
- Pre-seasoned and ready to use
Cons
- Difficult to open and close
- Heavy and bulky
- Not suitable for induction or smooth glass cooktops
We recently tried out this waffle maker and were impressed with the quality of the waffles it produced. The cast iron heats evenly and holds heat well, resulting in perfectly cooked waffles every time.
One thing to note is that this waffle maker is quite heavy and bulky, so it may not be the best choice if you have limited storage space. Additionally, the special hinge design can make it difficult to open and close the waffle maker, so it’s important to use oven mitts or other protective gear when handling it.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality cast iron waffle maker that will last for years, Lehman’s Cast Iron Waffle Maker is a great choice. Just be aware of its weight and size, and make sure it’s compatible with your stove or grill before purchasing.
Rome Industries Old Fashioned Waffle Cast Iron, Black 1 Black
If you’re looking for a durable cast iron waffle maker that can be passed down through generations, then the Rome Industries Old Fashioned Waffle Cast Iron is a great choice.
Pros
- Makes delicious waffles that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
- Easy to use and clean.
- Can be used on a variety of heat sources, including gas stoves, electric stoves, and campfires.
Cons
- Takes longer to heat up than an electric waffle maker.
- Can be heavy and difficult to handle, especially when hot.
- May require seasoning before first use.
We recently purchased the Rome Industries Old Fashioned Waffle Cast Iron and were impressed with its performance. It produced perfectly cooked waffles that had a nice crispy texture on the outside and a fluffy interior. We appreciated that it was easy to use and clean, and that we could use it on a variety of heat sources, including our gas stove and campfire.
One downside is that it takes longer to heat up than an electric waffle maker, so you may need to plan accordingly. Additionally, the cast iron material can be heavy and difficult to handle, especially when hot. Finally, it may require seasoning before first use, which can be an extra step for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the Rome Industries Old Fashioned Waffle Cast Iron to anyone looking for a high-quality, durable waffle maker that can be used for years to come.
ELINP Cast Iron Waffle Maker
If you’re looking for a versatile waffle maker that can make Taiyaki and other syrupy paste desserts, the ELINP Cast Iron Waffle Maker is a great choice.
Pros
- Made of premium and efficient materials, food grade cast aluminum thickened material, high temperature resistance, high hardness, durable and wear resistant.
- Non-stick coating makes it easy to demould and quick to clean.
- Anti-scalding handle and fixed bracket make it easy to operate and safe to use.
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe, requires hand washing.
- Not oven safe.
- Only makes Taiyaki and other syrupy paste desserts.
We recently used the ELINP Cast Iron Waffle Maker to make Taiyaki and were impressed with its performance. The non-stick coating made it easy to remove the cakes without any sticking, and the anti-scalding handle made it safe to use. We also appreciated the fixed bracket, which made it easy to open and close the mold.
While the ELINP Cast Iron Waffle Maker is not dishwasher safe, it was easy to clean by hand. We also appreciated that it is made of food grade cast aluminum thickened material, which is durable and wear resistant. Overall, we would highly recommend the ELINP Cast Iron Waffle Maker for anyone looking to make Taiyaki and other syrupy paste desserts.
HAWOK Cast Iron Waffle Iron Waffle Maker
If you’re looking for a compact and portable cast iron waffle maker, the HAWOK Cast Iron Waffle Iron Waffle Maker might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The small and compact design makes it easy to store in a camper or backpack.
- The cast iron material heats evenly and provides a crispy texture to the waffles.
- It’s easy to clean and maintain with proper seasoning.
Cons
- The small cooking head only makes 6.5 inch waffles, which might not be enough for some people.
- It requires proper seasoning and maintenance to prevent waffles from sticking.
- It works best on a gas camp stove or a home gas stove, which might limit its versatility.
We recently tried out this waffle maker on a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. The cast iron material heats evenly and provides a crispy texture to the waffles. It’s also easy to clean and maintain with proper seasoning.
However, the small cooking head only makes 6.5 inch waffles, which might not be enough for some people. It also requires proper seasoning and maintenance to prevent waffles from sticking. Additionally, it works best on a gas camp stove or a home gas stove, which might limit its versatility.
Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and portable cast iron waffle maker, the HAWOK Cast Iron Waffle Iron Waffle Maker is a good option to consider. Just make sure to keep its limitations in mind before making a purchase.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best cast iron waffle maker, there are a few key features to consider. These features will help ensure that you get a high-quality product that will make delicious waffles for years to come.
Size and Shape
The first thing to consider is the size and shape of the waffle maker. Waffle makers come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from round to square to rectangular. Consider the size of your kitchen and how much counter space you have available. If you have limited space, a smaller waffle maker may be a better option. Additionally, consider the size of the waffles you want to make. If you prefer larger waffles, a larger waffle maker may be a better option.
Material
The material of the waffle maker is also an important consideration. Cast iron waffle makers are a popular choice because they are durable and distribute heat evenly. Other materials, such as aluminum or non-stick coatings, may not be as durable and may not distribute heat as evenly.
Heat Distribution
Another important feature to consider is heat distribution. You want a waffle maker that distributes heat evenly across the entire surface of the waffle. This will ensure that your waffles are cooked evenly and have a consistent texture.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Finally, consider the ease of use and cleaning of the waffle maker. Look for a waffle maker that is easy to use and has simple controls. Additionally, look for a waffle maker that is easy to clean. Cast iron waffle makers can be cleaned with a simple wipe down, while other materials may require more effort to clean.
By considering these features, you can choose the best cast iron waffle maker for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a cast iron waffle maker?
Cast iron waffle makers are known for their durability and even heat distribution. They also provide a crispy and golden texture to waffles that is difficult to achieve with other materials. Additionally, cast iron waffle makers do not require electricity, making them a great option for camping or outdoor cooking.
Which brand of cast iron waffle maker is the most durable?
There are several brands of cast iron waffle makers available, but Lodge and Victoria are two of the most popular and highly rated options. Both brands are known for their high-quality cast iron and durable construction.
Can you use a cast iron waffle maker on an electric stove?
Yes, you can use a cast iron waffle maker on an electric stove. Simply preheat the waffle maker on the stove, and then place it in the oven to cook the waffles.
How do you properly season a cast iron waffle maker?
To properly season a cast iron waffle maker, first wash it with hot, soapy water and dry it completely. Then, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted shortening to the surface of the waffle maker. Place the waffle maker upside down in a preheated oven and bake for one hour. Repeat this process several times to build up a natural non-stick coating.
Is it worth investing in a vintage cast iron waffle maker?
While vintage cast iron waffle makers can be charming and nostalgic, they may not be as safe or reliable as modern options. Vintage waffle makers may contain lead or other harmful materials, and they may not have the same safety features as newer models.
What is the difference between a cast iron waffle maker and an electric waffle maker?
The main difference between a cast iron waffle maker and an electric waffle maker is the method of cooking. Cast iron waffle makers require preheating on a stove or open flame, while electric waffle makers plug into an outlet and heat up automatically. Cast iron waffle makers are also more durable and offer a classic, rustic look, while electric waffle makers are more convenient and offer a wider range of features.
