There may be only one food that stands above waffles on the breakfast table, and that's waffle sticks. They have all the same crispness and buttery flavor but can be picked up and dunked into your favorite toppings. Fun and delicious, they're a great treat for kids or adults who like to let loose.
However, finding the best waffle stick maker may be a challenge if you're not already familiar with these unique breakfast treats. There is a wide variety of styles available, and not all of them may be what you're looking for.
If you need a bit of guidance to find the perfect breakfast time appliance for your needs, look no further. We've considered all the top products available today and narrowed them down based on style, power, controls, and capacity. So, take a look for yourself and see if there's one that catches your eye.
Table of Contents
- Best Overall: Babycakes WMM-40 Waffle Stick Maker
- Best Compact: Dash Mini Waffle Stick Maker
- Best High-Capacity: Babycakes 5 Waffle Stick Maker
- Best Versatility: Lumme Waffle Stick Maker
- Best for Kids: CucinaPro Building Brick Electric Waffle Maker
- Best High-End: ALDKitchen ALD-516 Electric Stick Waffle Iron
- Waffle Stick Maker Buying Guide
- FAQs
Best Overall: Babycakes WMM-40 Waffle Stick Maker
The attractive, lightweight design makes this waffle stick maker our top pick.
Pros: Lightweight design, carry handle, nicely shaped waffles, nonstick baking plates
Cons: Smaller capacity, no heat adjustment
The best waffle stick maker should do more than make great waffles. It should also be easy to use, a breeze to clean, and portable enough to take where. The Babycakes WMM-40 waffle stick maker may be a simple kitchen gadget, but it's one that ticks all our boxes.
This appliance features two nonstick plates which can make four waffle sticks at once. The plates heat quickly, and once up to temperature, can turn out a batch of waffles in three minutes.
There are no complex controls to learn, and once you've tried it a few times, you'll be turning out proper waffle sticks like a pro.
Once breakfast is finished, the plates are easy to clean with the wipe of a rag. The entire appliance is 9” by 6”, making it easy to store in cramped kitchen drawers. The plastic handle makes it simple if you want to take it on the go.
The other factor that helps this waffle stick maker stand out is the waffles' shape. It creates deep indentations which are perfect for holding butter and maple syrup. In addition, the waffle sticks are narrow and easy to pick up.
If you're looking for a reliable way to make waffle sticks, this little gadget is the best around. It's true it doesn't have the same capacity as pricier models, but it turns out waffle sticks so fast you'll hardly notice. We think making waffle sticks should be fun and straightforward, which is why this product takes our top spot.
Best Compact: Dash Mini Waffle Stick Maker
We love the simple one-step setup of this mini waffle stick maker. Just plug it in, and you're ready to go!
Pros: Very compact, indicator light, dual nonstick surfaces
Cons: Smallest capacity
If you're the type to collect kitchen gadgets, you're probably already hurting for cabinet space. The great thing about a waffle stick maker is that it's usually compact, leaving more room for your kitchen multitaskers. In addition, the Dash mini waffle stick maker is one of the smallest available, less than 5 inches wide and long!
To give you an idea of how compact this waffle stick maker is, know that it can fit easily in any backpack or handbag. This makes it a great choice to take camping or to work in a snug dorm room. Once you're done using it, you can tuck it into any kitchen drawer without using up much extra space.
The operation is simple. Just plug it in and allow several minutes to heat. The indicator light located on the top of the maker will let you know when it's reached the optimal temperature. On the bottom are nonstick feet that keep it securely in place while cooking.
This waffle stick maker is ideal for those interested in making a fun breakfast but may be worried about storage space. Just keep in mind that it will take longer to make a whole meal with it. Still, it can feed a family of four without extra effort.
Best High-Capacity: Babycakes 5 Waffle Stick Maker
The 760-watt heating element gives this waffle stick maker an edge over other models.
Pros: Creates five waffle sticks per batch, 760-watt heating element, cord wrap simplifies storage
Cons: A bit bulkier than other models
If you're cooking for a large family or just don't like to wait for your waffle sticks to finish cooking, using a high-capacity waffle maker is the way to go. The Babycakes 5 waffle stick maker creates five sticks at once, making it 25% faster than standard models.
The entire appliance is 9” x 9” and features five waffle stick molds. This extra capacity may not seem like a lot. However, it can save a ton of cook time when cooking for a family.
In addition to the higher capacity, this waffle stick maker is equipped with a 760-watt heating element. That means it can reach higher temperatures and cook even faster than lower-powered appliances. With the indicator light on the top of the device, it's easy to know when your waffle sticks are ready.
It also includes a cord wrap to help with storage, a batter scoop, and a recipe booklet. This makes it a good choice for those just trying waffle sticks for the first time, giving you all the tools you need.
This is a great choice if you're worried that other waffle stick makers will be too slow to feed your family efficiently. Of course, this does make it a bit bulkier than other models. But as long as you make sure to clear a bit of extra space to store it, it's well worth it.
Best Versatility: Lumme Waffle Stick Maker
The fact that this appliance can make corn dogs and other snacks sets it apart from other designs.
Pros: Can create a few different snacks, higher capacity, 1-touch operation
Cons: Not the classic waffle stick shape, bulkier size
Most waffle stick makers are dedicated monotaskers, meaning they do one thing and do it well. But what if they didn't have to be? The Lumme waffle stick maker can create classic waffle sticks, as well as a few other delicious treats.
The first thing you'll notice about this waffle stick maker is that it looks slightly different from the rest. That's because the design allows you to make corn dogs as well. The unique design fits a hot dog and a good helping of waffle batter.
It may sound complicated, but luckily the one-touch operation makes it easy to create corndogs, waffle sticks, and other snacks. In addition, the LCD indicator light lets you know when it's up to temperature, ensuring consistent results every time.
Once you finish cooking, you'll find that this device is relatively easy to clean by design. You can wipe down the smooth contours on the exterior in seconds with minimal hassle.
If you don't like spending money on a kitchen gadget that only does one thing, you'll find this one to be a refreshing change. However, keep in mind that the finished product will be slightly different from what you're used to. For a more classic experience, try one of the other designs above.
Best for Kids: CucinaPro Building Brick Electric Waffle Maker
This waffle stick maker's building brick design makes this gadget genuinely unique.
Pros: Unique building brick design, higher capacity, nonstick coating, accessory plate available
Cons: Not classic waffle stick design, stick size isn't uniform
Waffle sticks are the perfect breakfast choice for kids, offering a fun and delicious meal. The possesses a unique design that will appeal to any child who can't put down their legos.
The great thing about this waffle stick maker is that it makes a lot of waffle sticks at once, in addition to having an original design. 14, to be specific, ranging in sizes from 1 x 1 to 4 x 1. This makes building even more fun, letting you mix and match to create custom constructions.
Each of the cooking plates is fully nonstick, making it easy to take out waffles once they're done. It also makes it easier to clean, ensuring bits of batter don't get stuck to the surface.
Of course, the waffle sticks this device creates aren't your classic shape and size, and they might not hold syrup as well. Though with the extra fun you'll be having with them, you'll hardly notice.
This can be a great birthday or holiday present for a special child in your life. Of course, adult supervision is required. But, since the waffle sticks are as delicious as they are fun, mom and dad can enjoy them too!
Best High-End: ALDKitchen ALD-516 Electric Stick Waffle Iron
The precise temperature control featured on this waffle stick maker puts it ahead of all its competitors.
Pros: Precise temperature control, high-capacity, good heat distribution, quality construction
Cons: More expensive, bulky
It's true that waffle sticks are made to be a casual breakfast-time treat, but that doesn't mean you can't make them quality. A high-end waffle stick maker is an excellent investment for anyone who takes breakfast seriously. The ALDKitchen ALD-516 electric stick waffle iron is a great choice to produce quality, consistent results.
In almost every area, this waffle stick maker has the competition beat. It creates six waffles in a single batch, where each waffle measures twice as wide as the typical waffle stick. With variable temperature control, it can cook them faster as well, just by turning up the heat.
Each of the cooking plates is made of stainless steel, which holds heat well, ensuring your waffle stick maker stays at the correct temperature. They are coated with a nonstick surface, making them easier to cook with and clean. The heavy lid closes securely, applying the necessary pressure to create perfect waffles.
As a bonus, the waffle iron is designed to insert a stick into the bottom of the waffle for a whole new way to enjoy them.
Choose this waffle stick maker if you want to get the crispiest, flakiest waffle sticks possible. But, of course, a quality product comes at a cost, and this appliance is much more expensive than others. So if the added features aren't worth it to you, try another option.
Waffle Stick Maker Buying Guide
Waffle stick makers come in various sizes and shapes, meaning there's always something new to learn. If you aren't sure what to look for when making your choice, keep these criteria in mind.
Capacity
Are you cooking for a large family, or just one or two? If you're feeding more than a few hungry mouths, make sure to get a bigger waffle stick maker so your first batch isn't cold before you're done. Otherwise, a more compact design can save you some storage space.
Style
It may surprise you to know that waffle sticks come in various styles, from classic, to festive and more. When choosing your maker, take a close look at the top and bottom cooking surfaces. This will give you a clear idea of what the finished product will look like.
Wattage
For electrical appliances, wattage determines the power of your heating element. Higher wattage allows you to reach higher temperatures and heat faster than lower wattage devices. For example, 400 to 600 watts should be plenty for a waffle stick maker, though larger ones may need more.
Controls
Most waffle stick makers are simple to use and only need to be plugged in. This is the ideal option for most people as it simplifies the process and makes it more fun. However, veterans may appreciate a model with an adjustable temperature control dial.
FAQs
Still have lingering questions about waffle makers? Take a look at what other home chefs are asking and get the answers you crave.
Waffle batter is simple to make and can be completed in just a few minutes. Follow these simple instructions to do it yourself.
While your waffle stick maker preheats, beat two eggs in a bowl until fluffy. Then, beat in two cups flour, 1 ¾ cups milk, ½ cup vegetable oil, 1 TB white sugar, 4 tsp baking powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Continue beating until smooth and then spoon into a greased waffle iron.
It may be hard to imagine healthy waffles, but plenty of low-sugar or low-fat waffle stick recipes are out there. If you'd like to try one for yourself, take a look at our Keto Cream Cheese Waffle Sticks.
The waffle is one of the most ingeniously designed breakfast foods there is. Its distinctive square pattern actually has more than one purpose.
First, the raised ridges help create more surface area with the pan. This allows a more significant portion of the batter to be exposed to heat, making a crispier waffle.
Second, the indentations are great at holding syrup and butter. Rather than dripping melted butter over your plate, they keep it in place for enhanced flavor.
While it may be tempting to try and figure out how to make waffles without a dedicated appliance, the fact is it can't be done. The distinctive grid-shaped pattern on the surface is crucial to waffles and can't be replicated in a standard pan.
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