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Waffle Wisdom

Cathy Agan

A waffle iron can be so much more than just a waffle iron. Using your waffle iron for more than just basic waffles can make quick work of dinner, snacks, or desserts. A can of crescent rolls and some pizza toppings make a fun pizza waffle that you can pair with a salad for a fast weeknight dinner. Cook brownie batter in your waffle iron for a sweet treat that you can top with powdered sugar for a fancy look. If you don’t have a panini press, but want to make a hot, pressed sandwich, grab your waffle iron instead! Even though waffle irons are versatile, they are still mostly used to make delicious waffles. However, sometimes getting that perfect waffle can be a challenge. Read on for some tips to make waffle making easier!

Waffles that stick are a common problem for many cooks. To avoid sticking, ensure that your waffle batter is thick rather than thin. You also want to add enough oil or butter to the batter and avoid using cooking sprays on the waffle iron. Check the heat setting on your waffle iron and make sure you have it set at the proper temperature based on recommendations in your appliance manual. If you can’t adjust the temperature on your waffle iron, make sure to wait until the temperature indicator says it is ready. For irons without any kind of temperature indicator, you can place a drop of batter on the surface. If it begins to sizzle immediately, it is hot enough to cook. Some tips for making better waffles are to:

  • Give the waffle iron time to preheat before using it.
  • Brush the waffle iron with oil before adding batter on the first waffle. Using oil rather than cooking spray will help prevent a sticky situation.
  • Make sure not to overfill the waffle iron.
  • Follow the lead of the timer on the waffle iron. Be patient and resist the urge to peek until the timer says go.
  • Place cooked waffles in your oven on warm to keep them hot as you make other waffles.

Make cleanup of your waffle iron easier by allowing the iron to cool completely before cleaning. Unplug it and give it time to cool. Use hot water and dish soap to clean the waffle iron. You can wipe it with this solution, but do not use abrasive cleaning methods. A soft bristle toothbrush can make quick work of tougher, stuck on areas. Just dip the toothbrush in the soapy water solution and scrub until clean.

When you make your meal plans this week, try to include your waffle iron for a meal, snack, or dessert. It is a fun way to prepare a quick, easy meal or treat for your family or just yourself. Waffle irons are great tools for those cooking for only one or two people. Remember to make meals and memories!

References: Dinner Tonight – Texas A&M Agrilife Extension, Food Champs

5/26/2022 1:41:59 PM
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