Best Commercial Waffle Maker 2023: Buyer's Guide

Inside this buyer’s guide:

1. Introduction
2. Types of waffles
3. Types of waffle makers
4. Main things to consider before ordering a waffle maker
5. Best commercial waffle makers in Canada
6. Used commercial waffle makers — worth considering?
7. Warranty and insurance
8. Top questions to ask before ordering a commercial waffle maker
9. Commercial waffle maker FAQs
10. Waffle maker terminology
11. Tips for maintaining your commercial waffle maker
12. Save your cash, use ours!

 

Introduction

These golden squares of crispy goodness are a classic. They're for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they're perfect for an afternoon snack time too.

Even if you’re not a specialty waffle shop business, waffles are a low-cost yet highly rewarding addition to your menu.

With a high-grade waffle maker, you can whip up a batch of fresh-baked waffles in no time.

And if you're operating a restaurant or takeout shop, adding waffles to your menu is easy — and it can be quite profitable.

Just put down a few squares of Belgian waffles on a plate, dip them in syrup or fruit compote and whipped cream sauce — and watch your customers devour them!

According to Dataintelo, in 2021–2030, the worldwide commercial waffle maker market is expected to develop at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of roughly 5.2%.

This sector's expansion can be linked to a rise in customer demand for breakfast meals and snacks worldwide.

It also helps that many restaurants are now offering healthier waffle alternatives, made with whole-wheat flour, buckwheat flour, almond flour, and more, which has resulted in a rise in demand for waffles.

So, let’s dive right into this guide to help you through the A–Z of getting the perfect commercial-grade waffle maker.

Types of waffles

There are many different types of waffles across the world. Sweet, salty, savoury, classic, trendy — you name it, waffles are an essential part of many people’s day.

 

Brussels waffle

Named after the capital city of Belgium, Brussels waffles are giant, rectangular waffles with deep pockets that are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Brussels-style waffles are made with beaten egg whites or yeast to leaven the dough. This is what gives them their distinctive fluffy texture.

These crisp waffles with deep pockets are often served as a dessert, topped with icing sugar, fruit, whipped cream, or even ice cream. They are typically rectangular with finished edges.

 

 Belgian waffle

Belgian waffles are usually round and are known for their sizeable and deep square pockets that you can fill with butter, jam, or maple syrup.

They are frequently produced with yeast and are thick. Belgian waffles are enjoyed for both breakfast and dessert.

Their shapes range from rectangular to circular, and their edges are complete.

 

 American waffle

Inspired by Belgian waffles, American waffles come in all shapes and sizes.

In some areas, they are served for lunch or dinner as often as they are for breakfast.

They are particularly loved covered with maple syrup or as an accompaniment to fried chicken.

American waffles are usually produced with a batter leavened with baking powder, resulting in a thin, dense finished product.

The honeycomb squares (also known as dents or pockets) on American waffle maker grids are frequently smaller and more numerous than on other types of waffle makers, making them ideal for retaining syrup or gravy.

 

 Liege waffle

Inspired by Brussels waffles, Liege waffles are smaller with a thicker texture.

They have a caramelized sugar crust on the outside that prevents the waffle from becoming soggy when topped with fruit or cream.

This waffle is created with a yeast dough modified from brioche bread dough. Pearl sugar is also added to the outside of the waffle near the end of the cooking process to create the caramelized sugar coating that gives it its sweet flavour.

Thanks to this coating, Liege-style waffles won't become soggy when served with fruit or ice cream, making them ideal for street vendors selling handheld treats.

The uneven, unfinished borders of a Liege waffle are another distinguishing trait.

 

Types of waffle makers

There are three types of electric waffle makers: Commercial, flip, and Belgian waffle makers.

 

Commercial waffle maker

A commercial waffle maker is a larger piece of equipment designed for use in a commercial setting, such as a restaurant or coffee shop.

Because it’s larger and more powerful than a home waffle maker, it can cook more waffles at once.

These machines also have features like removable grids and dishwasher-safe parts that make cleaning and maintenance easier.

Industrial waffle makers come in a variety of styles, including:

 

Double electric waffle maker

The design of this waffle maker allows you to cook two waffles at the same time.

Moreover, because of the powerful cooking elements, you can produce up to 50 waffles per hour — an impressive output for a machine of this size. It's a great way to broaden your dessert alternatives.

Also, this equipment is very easy to use: simply open it, fill it with waffle mix, and close it. Embedded heating elements ensure consistent cooking, and an audible beep and LED indicators inform you when your delicious, high-margin waffles are ready to serve.

A double electric rotary waffle maker with triple-coated, non-stick plates ensures that cooked waffles can be easily withdrawn without ripping or breaking them, which is a common cause of food loss when using traditional waffle makers.

The removable drip tray makes cleaning even more effortless. When paired with a rotating design that produces constant baking and even browning, this waffle machine will up your game when making delicious, crispy waffles!

 

Lollipop waffle maker

A lollipop waffle maker is an exceptional and innovative invention for people who are looking for something new!

With this appliance, you can quickly make up to four delicious waffles on sticks simultaneously.

The cast aluminum plates with non-stick coating ensure easy removal of the fresh waffles.

It comes with a cast-iron mould with four cylindrical imprints. Four golden waffles are cooked at 270 ° C in two-and-a-half minutes — that’s 96 waffles per hour!

This waffle maker allows you to make authentic Belgian waffles on a stick. The stick shape of the waffles adds some visual interest to your food.

Their thickness is perfect for different tastes, both sweet and savoury.

 

Flip waffle maker

A flip waffle maker is a machine that cooks the batter on both sides at the same time.

This produces a crispy waffle on the surface and a fluffy waffle on the interior.

Flip waffle makers are distinguished from other waffle makers by their exceptional ability to uniformly cook the batter, resulting in a flawless waffle every time.

 

Belgian waffle maker

A Belgian waffle maker produces square waffles that are thicker and larger than ordinary waffles.

They are distinct in that they have deeper pockets than other waffle makers, allowing more batter to be uniformly spread and resulting in a thicker waffle.

The waffles are also more evenly cooked and have a somewhat crisper texture than other types of waffles.

Belgian waffle makers are available in electric and stovetop variants, as well as a variety of sizes.

When selecting a Belgian waffle maker, it’s critical to evaluate the size that best meets your requirements.

 

Stovetop waffle iron

 As the name indicates, these waffle irons are designed to be placed directly on your stovetop.

They usually work on gas and electric cooktops (as well as camping stoves or open fires).

Cast iron and cast aluminum are the two most common materials for stovetop waffle irons because they both conduct heat efficiently and cook waffles evenly.

Cast-iron waffle irons are more robust and naturally non-stick, but they must be seasoned before use.

Cast aluminum waffle irons have a non-stick coating that requires minimal maintenance, but they should not be used with metal tools since the coating will wear off with time.

 

Electric waffle maker vs. stovetop waffle iron

While electric waffle makers and a stovetop waffle irons both make waffles, they have important differences you should consider before ordering one or the other.

An electric waffle maker is far more convenient, user-friendly, and adaptable. Having said that, a stovetop, cast-iron waffle maker will last you a lifetime.

The distinctions are comparable to those between a cast-iron pan and an electric skillet.

They are both useful, however the durability of a cast-iron skillet cannot be matched, and they offer more precise control over heating, but require more maintenance.

On the other hand, the convenience of an electric skillet cannot be matched, although it cannot be operated without an electrical outlet. 

 

Main things to consider when ordering a commercial waffle maker

Aside from the type of waffle maker (see section above) here are the other factors to keep in mind when you are looking to buy, rent or lease a industrial waffle maker.

 

Size, shape, and batter considerations

Waffle makers come in various sizes and shapes, with some capable of holding up to three-quarters of a cup of batter.

They’re also great for more than just breakfast; some models can also be used to make pizza and quesadillas.

The shape and size of the machine are important since they are related to the type of waffles you intend to serve.

If you wish to offer Brussels waffles in your restaurant, choose a rectangular-shaped machine.

However, if you intend to make Liege waffles, a unit with an uneven shape will be more suitable.

Belgian waffles are typically circular, necessitating the use of a round-shaped waffle machine.

American waffles can be round or square.

Heart-shaped waffles are another good option to turn your breakfast menu into a work of art.

 

Best material for a commercial waffle maker

When choosing a waffle maker, one of the most important factors to consider is the material it’s made of.

Cast iron and non-stick cast aluminum are among the commonly used materials in the manufacture of waffle makers. However, each grid material has its pros and cons (see table below):

Material type	Pros	Cons
Cast steel	Scratch-resistant and has a longer lifespan Heats uniformly Dishwasher-safe	Baking time is longer Pre-heat time is longer
Cast aluminum	Energy efficient Faster pre-heat time Faster baking time	Surface is susceptible to scratches and dents Is not dishwasher-friendly and should be washed by hand, which can be counter-productive for large establishments
Non-stick coating	Easy to clean and maintain Consistently releases the waffles intact	Easy for the coating to chip or get scratched Not dishwasher-friendly and must be washed by hand
Cast iron	Very durable Surface becomes non-stick after seasoning (with oil or butter) Retains heat quite effectively	Preheat time is long Have to season it regularly

 

Settings, features, and functionality

Temperature control

Commercial waffle makers have all the features of the home versions, but are designed to be used many times daily.

Commercial electric and non-electric models come with temperature-control settings to ensure the correct temperature is maintained throughout the cooking process.

A restaurant-grade waffle maker should give you the best waffles.

 

Electrical configuration

Before ordering a commercial waffle maker, you must consider you’re your venue’s electricity supply.

Canada uses 120-volt power, which is substantially lower than the 220/240-volt electricity used in Europe and Australia.

Furthermore, attempting to plug 220- or 240-volt appliances into a 120-volt electricity supply might result in damaged devices, electrical shock, or even a fire. A voltage transformer is the best way to securely use your 220-or 240-volt appliances.

 

Timer

If you own a waffle shop or a restaurant, the timer feature will come in handy. It will display the total time required to prepare waffles.

A timer will assist you in making your waffles crispy and flavourful, and  indicate when your waffles are ready.

 

Ease of cleaning

A good waffle maker should be easy to clean. This means you need to consider the waffle maker’s grid material.

Some waffle makers come with removable grids for easy cleaning.

 

Accessories and smallwares

When ordering an industrial waffle maker, there are a few accessories and smallwares you should also consider.

Drip trays are plates/trays placed beneath your floating waffle grid. They catch any batter spilt while flipping your waffles or shutting your waffle-maker plates.

Though they’re optional, they make cleaning easier while also helping to prevent food waste!

Make sure the drip tray you order is non-stick and dishwasher-friendly. As for smallwares, heat-resistant spatulas and tongs are recommended, including ones made of wood, silicon, or plastic.

 

Best commercial waffle makers in Canada

Waring WW250X side-by-side single Belgian waffle maker

This waffle maker is a 120V unit that bakes up to 60 golden-brown Belgian waffles per hour.

Its die-cast base is durable enough for heavy use and its non-stick plates allow easy removal of waffles after baking.

The machine’s  rotary feature and embedded heating elements ensure even baking and browning on both sides of each waffle, so you don't have to worry about over or undercooking any part of the waffle!

Perfect for diners, cafes, and any restaurant looking to add waffles to their menu.

Key features

• Rotary feature for consistent baking and browning.
• Non-stick plates allow for easy removal of waffles.
• Embedded heating elements for accurate temperature control.
• Audio chime signals when appliance is ready for cooking and when the waffle is cooked.

 

Breville Smart Waffle Pro 4 Slice BWM640BSS1BCA1

The Breville Smart Waffle Pro 4 Slice is the smartest commercial waffle maker you’ll ever own.

This four-slice waffle maker automatically calculates the correct cooking time for whatever style of waffle you choose and adds additional time to get the waffles just right, as per your customer’s liking, without having to reset the timer.

The LCD changes to orange to indicate the cooking cycle has commenced.

Just pour in your batter, close the lid, and let it do its thing.

Key features

• BPA-free dosing cup for mess-free pouring.
• Stainless-steel housing and cast-aluminum cooking plates.
• Deep cooking plates for thicker, fluffier waffles.
• Heating components with thermal engineering ensure even heat distribution.
• Voltage range: 110–120 volts.
• Waffle IQ: The cooking time is automatically computed based on the style and colour of your waffle.

 

Nella Belgian Waffle Maker 39578

This Nella Belgian waffle maker is the perfect tool for your breakfast business.

With this machine, you'll be able to make mouth-watering waffles in just minutes. Its heavy-duty cast-iron grid provides consistent results and its thermostat control provides precise temperature and adjustments.

It also has a drip tray to reduce mess and waste Its temperature settings range from 60°C to 298°C, and it makes two waffles at a time.

Key features

• Drip tray to reduce waste.
• Thermostatic temperature regulator.
• Temperature range of 60°C–298°C.
• Makes two waffles at a time.
• 120V / 60 Hz / 1 Phase.

 

Used waffle makers — worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on new commercial kitchen equipment can put a strain your budget and cash flow.

If you’d prefer not to invest a lot of money in new waffle maker, a cheaper, pre-owned appliance might be the solution you’re looking for.

SilverChef's range of 'Certified Used' equipment is mostly ex-rental equipment sourced from businesses we know and trust.

The equipment is typically less than two-and-a-half year sold, has been fully refurbished by us, and is backed by a three-month parts-and-labour warranty.

You can either buy or finance the ‘Certified Used’ (and clearance) equipment on our website.

(We’re one of the few financiers, if not the only one, in Canada that funds second-hand commercial kitchen equipment.)

Read more about ‘Certified Used’ equipment

 

Warranty and insurance

Most equipment manufacturers provide warranties ranging from one to five years, depending on the type of equipment.

If the equipment develops a covered fault within that time, the manufacturer is obliged to repair or replace the equipment or give you a full refund.

Carefully study the warranty to understand exactly what is and isn't covered.

SilverChef offers a three-month parts-and-labour warranty on all our ‘Certified Used’ equipment.

Business insurance covers loss or damage to your commercial kitchen equipment and other property.

This cover typically includes fire, accident, and theft. Some insurers also offer equipment-breakdown cover.

Contact your insurer to confirm whether the equipment you’re getting is automatically covered by your policy or will need to be added to it.

If your insurer doesn’t provide flood cover as standard, you may wish to consider requesting it. 

 

Top questions to ask before ordering a commercial waffle maker

1. What are the waffle maker's short- and long-term operational costs?
2. How easy is it to clean the waffle maker?
3. What type of waffle maker is the best for my needs?
4. What are the benefits of using an electric vs. non-electric waffle maker for my venue?
5. What is the brand reputation of the waffle maker?
6. How easy is it to use the machine?
7. Does it have an indicator/alert light?
8. Are the plates removable and dishwasher-safe?
9. What is the material of the waffle maker?
10. Does it contain toxic materials?
11. How long does it take to heat up?
12. How long does it take for each waffle to cook?
13. What is the wattage of the waffle maker?
14. Does the handle get hot?
15. Are spare parts easily available?
16. What does the warranty cover?
17. Does it come with accessories?

 

Commercial waffle maker FAQs

 

What is the ideal material for a waffle maker?

Any non-stick material is your best choice.

We recommend non-stick machines made of stainless steel or cast iron because they effectively prevent the batter from sticking.

Waffle machines made of stainless steel, ceramic, or cast iron are more likely to endure longer hours of use than aluminum or Teflon-coated ones.

However, ones made of stainless steel or cast iron can be more expensive.

Those concerned about environmental health may want to consider purchasing a stainless-steel model.

If you're worried about possibly harmful chemicals, cast-iron waffle makers are another excellent alternative.

Stainless steel and cast-iron waffle machines are less prone to peeling or flaking and are free of toxic chemicals.

 

What is the ideal size for a waffle maker?

The appropriate size of a waffle maker is determined by the number of clients served and the frequency with which the waffles are made.

If you own a large restaurant, the size of the waffles may not be as important.

Instead, choose a waffle machine that cooks waffles quickly, such as a stovetop waffle maker.

Most waffle machines accommodate one-half to three-quarters of a cup of waffle batter per batch. If you intend to cook additional items with your waffle maker, such as cheese melts or pizzas, you may need something larger.

 

What is the lifespan of a waffle maker?

A waffle maker has an average lifespan of six to eight years. The following factors influence the longevity of a waffle machine:

 

Frequency of use

The frequency with which you use the machine can determine how long it lasts. Frequent opening and closing of the waffle machine can wear out parts such as the hinge.

Regular maintenance and upkeep

If you keep your waffle maker in good condition, it will last longer. This includes opening and closing the lid with care and quickly clearing out dried batter between uses.

Material

The material of the machine influences how long it will survive. Cast-iron waffle makers outlast aluminum ones.

 

Features, settings, and control options

The waffle maker’s features can influence its longevity. Self-cleaning or browning waffle machines typically last longer than standard ones.

 

What features should a high-quality waffle maker have?

Here are five features of a premium waffle maker:

 

Non-stick materials

Choosing a non-stick material will make cleaning and maintaining your waffle maker easier.

 

Browning control

A waffle iron with a browning control regulates moisture, allowing you to obtain the optimal level of browning.

 

Size

The number and size of waffles you can produce are influenced by the capacity of the waffle maker you order.

 

A ready indicator

A ready indication will tell you when your waffles are done cooking, allowing you to do other things while they cook.

 

Temperature control

A waffle maker with temperature control allows you to keep your chosen temperature constant.

At SilverChef, we have a wide selection of professional waffle makers with the best features. 

 

Should I choose a Belgian waffle maker or a traditional-style waffle maker?

A Belgian waffle maker is a good choice if you want to pile on the toppings, because the deep pockets can hold more.

A Belgian waffle maker:

• yields waffles with a dense and fluffy middle and a crispy outer.
• produces deep pockets in the waffle, which can hold more butter, syrup, whipped cream, ice cream, fruit, or whatever else you want on it.
• takes up more counter space compared to traditional waffle makers.
• requires waffles to be flipped and so takes longer to cook them than traditional machines.

Traditional-style waffles are said to have existed in Europe throughout the Middle Ages. These are the waffles people are most familiar with. We recommend a traditional-style waffle machine if you want greater ease and variety.

A traditional style waffle maker:

• yields a thin waffle with a solid texture and rich flavour.
• produces smaller pockets in the waffle compared to a Belgian waffle maker.
• makes different shapes and sizes of waffles, including waffle cones and sandwiches.
• cooks faster and is easier to store than a Belgian waffle maker.

 

 How much does a commercial waffle maker cost?

The price of a commercial waffle maker ranges from $550 to $2,500, depending on the model, including its material and features.

The number of people and type of waffles you want to serve will influence the cost of your waffle maker.

 

Waffle maker terminology

Batter cups

Cups used to measure the volume of batter before its poured  into the waffle maker.

 

Browning control

Regulates moisture, allowing you to obtain the optimum level of brownness.

 

Double-grid waffle maker

This waffle maker has two grids of varying heights that allow you to cook the batter in numerous layers and produce larger, deeper pockets for flavourings or fillings. It also provides extra room on top for toppings such as whipped cream.

 

Drip tray

A tray designed to catch drips and excess batter.

 

Handle

Waffle makers have heat-resistant handles that allow you to open and close the plates without getting burnt.

 

Hinge

A joint that holds the waffle maker’s hot plates together.

 

Hot plate

The place you pour the batter when using a waffle maker; also known as a waffle plate.

 

Single-grid waffle maker

A commercial-grade waffle maker that cooks batter in a single layer.

 

Spatula

A kitchen utensil that is used to lift and flip food items during cooking, such as pancakes and waffles.

 

Stacked double waffle maker

This waffle maker has two waffle irons stacked on top of each other that can be switched to reach one waffle at a time.

 

Waffle cone maker

A completely automated piece of equipment that allows you to make hot, fresh waffle cones. Simply pour the batter onto the non-stick cooking surface and bake to make delightful, light golden-brown cones within minutes.

Tips for maintaining your commercial waffle maker

Maintaining your waffle maker in top condition is essential for two reasons.

First, it makes for better waffles. Second, it prevents the need for any costly repairs.

Here are five tips to keep your waffle maker running like a champ:

1. Always refer to your instruction manual or the manufacturer's website for cleaning tips specific to your waffle machine.
2. Non-stick waffle makers should only need a light coating of cooking oil before the first time they're used for the day (not before each waffle is made). It's better to use cooking oil either in a refillable spray bottle or to brush it on with a pastry brush.
3. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior and interior of your waffle machine after each use. Be careful not to use too much water or get the cloth too wet, as this could damage the machine.
4. If your waffle maker has removable plates, wash them by hand with warm, soapy water after each use and dry them thoroughly before putting them back in the machine.
5. Store your waffle machine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when it's not in use.

 

Save your cash, use ours!

Hospitality equipment can be expensive and paying for it outright can put pressure on your business’s cash flow.

Our finance solutions allow you to get the equipment you want now and to pay for it in small, regular amounts out of the revenue it generates for you.

Rent–Try–Buy® not only helps you maintain your cash flow, it gives you unrivalled flexibility to adapt your equipment to the changing needs of your business.

You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.

If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 60% of the net rent you paid in the first year and 20% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.

Read more about Rent–Try–Buy