The best ceramic waffle maker is a must have kitchen appliance if you want to make delicious homemade waffles from scratch.
A little known secret about ceramic waffle makers is that they’re believed to be healthier than traditional non-stick ones. Ceramic is naturally free of toxic chemicals and heavy metals. So it’s a much healthier choice for you and your family.
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Ceramic Waffle Maker Comparison Table
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Our Reviews: Top 5 Ceramic Waffle Makers
Kitchen appliance manufacturers are starting to catch on that smart, health-conscious shoppers like you are demanding safer and healthier kitchen tools.
Eco Friendly Waffle Maker
A good ceramic waffle maker must have a ceramic surface that’s free of chemicals like PTFE and PFOA. It must also be durable and long-lasting. Even heat distribution and a non-stick surface are a plus.
So if you love to make mouth-watering waffles topped with fruit and honey, you need a good ceramic waffle maker to do the job. If you want to get creative with your recipes, the possibilities are endless if you have your own waffle iron.
For instance, you can grind fresh spices like cinnamon or nutmeg from your spice rack, then sprinkle either one on top of the whip cream when making Belgian waffles. Your options are only limited by your creativity.
1. Best Pick-Calphalon Intellicrisp Waffle Maker
The Calphalon ceramic-coated waffle maker is our best pick. It’s a premium model with high end features.
You can make up to two Belgian waffles at a time, so it’s a great fit for big families. It also has five adjustable waffle browning shades to choose from. Each waffle lover in your house will feel represented by the various levels of crispness that this waffle maker offers.
We also like the high-quality construction. The waffle iron plates are ceramic coated and the exterior is made with durable stainless steel. Its cooking surface is actually 11 times more durable than traditional nonstick waffle makers so it will last you for many years.
What sets this model apart from other waffle makers is the LCD screen. It displays the five different waffle browning shades as well as a countdown timer to track cooking progress. The digital display makes this ceramic waffle maker easy-to-use and high-tech. Plus, it’s fully customizable.
Key Details
This model measures 9.7 x 11.3 x 5.8 inches and weighs 9 pounds. Its ceramic coating is PTFE & PFOA-free.
Calphalon uses ceramic to its advantage because the plates are designed to deliver 20% more even heat compared to traditional non-stick ones for perfectly cooked Belgian waffles.
If you’re short on cabinet or counter space, the size of the Calphalon may be a drawback. One way to make the best of the large size is to use the locking lid feature and store it vertically. If you have the counter space, the stainless steel finish will add a modern look to your kitchen.
One concern is that the surface isn’t non-stick. You may need to use butter, coconut oil, or non-stick spray to prevent the waffle batter from sticking. However, the surface hand wipes clean. It also comes with a three year warranty.
Pros
- Coated in PTFE & PFOA-free ceramic so it’s non-toxic
- LCD screen displays cook setting and time
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price
- Not space-saving
- Batter may stick to surface
2. Best Value Pick-Presto Ceramic Flipside Belgian Waffle Maker
If you want a waffle maker that has it all yet still is affordably priced, then consider the Presto. This is our Best Value Pick because it’s ceramic coated, non-stick, and space-saving.
One feature that sets this ceramic waffle maker apart from the competition is the extra-thick grid. In true Belgian waffle style, this waffle iron produces thick, dense waffles. The extra thickness allows for the best of both worlds: crispy edges with a fluffy middle. Plus, four sections are designed so that the waffles are easy to cut or pull apart along the lines.
Knowing when your waffles are ready is easy with the Presto. It has a digital countdown timer on the side. This makes it easier to know when to flip and acts as a signal when the waffles are done cooking.
Many waffle makers have a flip feature, so the batter cooks evenly. What makes the Presto unique is that it doesn’t flip horizontally, it flips vertically. This makes it much easier to use, creates less mess, and appears safer.
Key Details
This model measures 12 x 12 x 3 inches and weighs less than 6 pounds. So it’s nice and compact. Its ceramic coating is PTFE and PFOA-free.
Since the exterior is made of stainless steel, it may get hot to the touch. Fortunately, it has a grippable handle to prevent you from burning yourself. You simply flip the waffle maker 180 degrees using the ergonomic handle.
The design of this ceramic coated waffle iron makes it easier to clean and store. It’s non-stick surface must be cleaned and wiped down by hand. The base locks to the lid, so you can store this waffle iron on its side instead of stacking it on top of other appliances.
One feature lacking in the Presto we’d like to see is customizable cook settings. You’ll have to keep an eye on the batter depending on if you prefer crispier or softer waffles. Lastly, it comes with a one year limited warranty.
Pros
- Ceramic coated plates are non-stick
- Ceramic coating is free of PTFE & PFOA
- Digital countdown timer to keep track of cook time
- Distributes heat evenly for perfectly co oked waffles
Cons
- No cook settings
- Exterior may get hot
- Only 1-year limited warranty
3. Hamilton Beach Single Flip Belgian Waffle Maker
Oster is a widely recognized and respected kitchen appliance brand. This waffle maker’s ceramic coating is PTFE and PFOA-free.
When you find a good ceramic waffle maker, you might find that it’s not non-stick. You may have to pick your battles—ceramic or non-stick—but with the Oster, you don’t have to. Oster uniquely infuses their DuraCeramic waffle maker with titanium, thereby making it non-stick.
This is also a traditional round waffle maker. You can make classic Belgian waffles with safe, natural cookware. The surface is durable, scratch-resistant and long-lasting. In fact, it’s believed to last eight times longer than traditional non-stick waffle makers.
This model also has adjustable temperature controls. Lower settings make for lighter colored waffles with a fluffy, airy texture. So if you want deep gold and crispy waffles, go for a higher setting.
Key Details
The size of this waffle maker is pretty standard. It’s 5.8 x 8.8 x 11.1 inches and only 3 pounds so it can be stored easily in your cabinet. It is also easy to clean by simply wiping down its surface by hand.
One feature that really makes the Oster stand out is that it’s energy-efficient. It cooks 30% faster than other standard nonstick waffle irons, so it saves on time and energ
The only downsides are with the design. First, it doesn’t flip like other waffle makers, so one side may be more cooked than the other.
Second, the exterior is hot to the touch while in use. Be sure to keep it away from small children. Otherwise, this is a solid budget-friendly choice and it comes with a one year limited warranty.
Pros
- Titanium-infused DuraCeramic non-stick coating is long-lasting.
- Ceramic coating is PTFE & PFOA free
- 30% faster cook time
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- No flip feature, so may not cook evenly
- Chrome exterior gets hot while cooking
- 1-year limited warranty only
4. BELLA Classic Rotating Waffle Maker
This flip waffle maker from Oster is made with a titanium infused Duraceramic non-stick coating. The materials are a win-win. You get a PTFE and PFOA free ceramic coating and the non-stick properties from the titanium.
This model also has the flipping feature that makes for a more evenly cooked waffle. So if you’re drawn to flip waffle makers, then this ceramic option may be a great fit for you.
If you’ve had a waffle maker before, you may have noticed that the coating eventually flakes or peels. You may also notice that batter sticks to the surface more easily as the waffle iron becomes less effective over time.
You won’t experience this with the Oster. This Oster waffle maker will last eight times longer than traditional models because of the unique titanium and ceramic infusion.
Another feature we like is the fast, adjustable cook time. Simply select the setting of your choice, and you’ll get cooked waffles 30% faster than other waffle makers.
Key Details
This waffle maker is about average size—6.7 x 14.5 x 10.1 inches and 5 pounds—so it can be stored on its side without requiring extra space.
Since it’s non-stick, it will also be very easy to clean by wiping down the surface by hand. Depending on your waffle batter, you may not even need to use butter or non-stick spray.
One thing to keep in mind about this flip waffle maker is that it’s more prone to messes. There may be spillage from the side as the waffle batter cooks.
Also, the lid may come open during flipping, so you have to practice your flipping skills. Lastly, it comes with a one year limited warranty.
Pros
- Ceramic surface is free of PTFE and PFOA
- Titanium infusion makes it non-stick
- Coating is durable, long-lasting and won’t flake or peel
Cons
- Flip may be messy
- Lid may open during flip
- 1-year limited warranty only
5. Hamilton Beach Durathon Belgian Waffle Maker
If you want a high-quality ceramic waffle maker from a trusted brand, you should consider the Hamilton Beach. It’s made with durable materials, has premium features and it’s affordably priced.
The ceramic surface on this waffle maker is PTFE and PFOA free and four times more durable than traditional non-stick. It won’t crack, peel, or become less effective over time. It’s also non-stick, which is a plus.
The Hamilton Beach is a great choice if you love classic-style Belgian waffles. The grid is extra deep, making for thicker Belgian waffles. You can also choose between the various temperature settings, so cook time can be faster and waffles can be crispier.
Key Details
The Hamilton Beach measures in at 12.8 x 10 x 5.8 inches and weighs only 3 pounds. It’s the same size, if not smaller, than other waffle makers on the market.
A classic dilemma we’ve all faced when it comes to waffle makers is the inevitable overflow of batter. It’s difficult to determine how much batter to use because waffles expand as they cook.
Fortunately, this waffle maker is made with a unique batter overflow channel that we’ve never seen in another waffle maker. This channel redirects extra batter so it’s easy to dispose of and clean.
Another feature that prevents batter overflow is the pre-measured batter cup. This makes it easy to know how much batter to use. It also has a special storage place right on top of the waffle maker, so you don’t have to worry about misplacing it.
Since this model doesn’t have a flip feature, it may not cook as evenly. This may be preventable though with the adjustable temperature dial. Lastly, it comes with a one year limited warranty.
Pros
- PTFE & PFOA-free ceramic, non-stick coating is 4 times more durable than standard non-stick
- Pre-measured batter cup to prevent spillage
- Unique batter overflow channel creates less mess
Cons
- Pricey
- No flip feature
- 1-year limited warranty only
Ceramic Waffle Maker Buying Guide
Having a good waffle maker is a great way to treat yourself to a Belgian delicacy without having to splurge at a restaurant. Your one-time investment will allow you to make hundreds of delicious waffles throughout your life.
So if you love having waffles each morning with your favorite cup of Kona coffee, then buying one is a no brainer.
Some people get creative by making other foods in their waffle irons, too. You can make hash browns and brownies successfully in a waffle maker. YouTuber Jackson Bird has an entire video series called “Will It Waffle”? where he makes non-waffle foods items in his waffle maker.
However you use your waffle maker, there are a few key points to consider before making your selection. Read on to find out.
How to Select a Ceramic Waffle Maker
Selecting a waffle maker that’s right for you will vary based on a few criteria. The most important criteria for many health-conscious consumers is that it’s made with a natural ceramic coating.
A good waffle maker should also be durable and have certain features. Finding a good ceramic waffle maker can be difficult, but we put together this comprehensive guide to give you all the information you need to make a well-informed choice.
Ceramic Surface
One criteria that’s non-negotiable is that your waffle maker should have a ceramic surface that is PTFE and PFOA free. Most ceramic waffle makers aren’t 100% ceramic and that’s okay. However, the surface that touches your food should be natural and ceramic coated.
Ceramic Coating
One phrase you’ll see a lot in ceramic waffle makers is “coated with ceramic.” This means that the outermost material of the waffle iron plates are coated with ceramic. However, other parts of the waffle maker are not ceramic. As long as the interior surface where the waffle batter goes is ceramic coated, your waffle maker is in the clear. This is important because ceramic is made with natural materials.
Non-stick Ceramic
You may be wondering if a ceramic waffle maker can have a non-stick surface. The answer is yes. Not all ceramic waffle makers are non-stick, though. When a ceramic waffle maker is non-stick, it’s likely mixed with another material. For example, Oster’s ceramic waffle makers are made with a titanium infusion to give them non-stick properties.
Non-stick surfaces have their obvious advantages: less messy, easier to clean, and perfectly cooked waffles without residue.
Teflon
One of the most common non-stick surfaces is Teflon. There has been a lot of controversy around non-stick coatings such as Teflon for the past ten years. The main concerns were focused on a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is no longer used in the production of nonstick cookware but used to be up until the year 2013. Nowadays, all teflon products as PFOA-Free.
Some say it’s harmful to your health while others say using non stick teflon coated cookware is completely safe as long as your home cooking temperatures don’t exceed 570 degrees fahrenheit(300 degrees Celsius). Above these temperatures, Teflon coatings may start to break down and release toxic fumes into the air. Breathing in these fumes from the overheated cookware may cause temporary, flu-like symptoms.
Ceramic vs. Traditional Non-Stick
There are two main differences between ceramic waffle makers and those made with traditional non-stick materials such as Teflon.
The first is that ceramic doesn’t contain PFTE (Teflon). So there’s no concern that any toxic fumes could be released into the air you breathe while cooking at very high temperatures (above 570 degrees fahrenheit or 300 degrees Celsius). Although cooking at these very high temperatures at home is unlikely.
The second key difference is that ceramic is a higher quality material. It’s sturdier, more durable, and will last longer.
Notice how our best pick, the Calphalon, is expected to last 11 times longer than traditional non-stick waffle makers. Ceramic coated surfaces are generally less likely to peel, flake, break, or lose effectiveness over time.
Durability
Some people think that healthier options, such as ceramic coated waffle makers, mean lower quality or weaker materials. This is far from the truth when it comes to ceramic.
Ceramic is made from durable clay. Ceramic waffle makers are believed to be at least four times and up to eleven times more durable than other waffle maker materials.
Another thing that makes a waffle maker more durable is what the exterior is made of. We like to see appliances made with stainless steel.
When narrowing down the selection to the top 5, we paid close attention to the durability of these ceramic waffle makers.
Even Heat Distribution
One feature that we love to see in a ceramic waffle maker is even heat distribution. We mainly see this feature in waffle makers that require you to flip them halfway through. This allows the batter to cook evenly on both sides and in the middle.
We’ve all had a waffle that was cooked on the outside and soggy or mushy in the middle. With this feature, you get a perfectly cooked waffle every time. This can be achieved without the flip feature, too. The Calphalon doesn’t flip yet it delivers 20% more even heating than competitors.
Adjustable Temperature Controls
If you think about it, waffles are like toast. They can be softer or crispier depending on your preferences. Lucky for us, our ceramic waffle makers have multiple temperature settings.
Having the ability to choose between different temperature controls allows you to cook your waffles hotter and longer. This is perfect for achieving super crispy waffles. Alternatively, you can dial it back to achieve a lighter golden brown and a softer texture.
Waffle texture isn’t one-size-fits-all, so this is a nice feature to have.
Types of Ceramic Waffle Makers
Using a ceramic waffle maker is relatively the same across the different types and models. They’re all electric.
You plug them into the wall, wait for them to heat up, and then use as you would a normal waffle maker. However, there are a few different shapes and modes of use that differentiate some ceramic waffle makers from others.
Belgian Waffle Maker
Belgian is the classic waffle shape. So it’s no surprise that this is the classic waffle maker shape. If you’re accustomed to Belgian-shaped waffle makers, you can still get this in a ceramic one. The Hamilton Beach model is a great example of this because the grid is extra deep, making for a true Belgian waffle experience.
Belgian-style waffles are popular because they yield deep ridges perfect for melted butter and syrup. The taste depends on the batter you use, but it’s the shape that makes them so satisfying. Plus, Belgian waffles pair perfectly with freshly made espresso.
Two-Slice Capacity
Some ceramic waffle makers are able to make two, square-shaped waffles at a time. The Calphalon is the perfect example of this. Two-slice capacity waffle makers are typically larger in size, so they’re not space-saving. However, this is a great option for larger families and making multiple waffles at a time.
Flip Feature
Using a waffle maker can be as easy as filling it with batter and closing the lid. However, waffle makers with a flip feature have an extra step: flipping the iron halfway through. This has its pros and cons. The main pro is that it heats the batter evenly to prevent the middle from being undercooked. The disadvantage is that it requires more effort.
For some, a flippable waffle maker is the way to go. Fortunately, you can get this feature in ceramic waffle makers. Just take a look at the Preso and Oster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are ceramic waffle makers safe?
A: Yes, ceramic coated waffle makers are safe. In fact, ceramic coated waffle makers are safer than traditional non-stick waffle makers. This is because they’re free of chemicals such as PTFE and PFOA and sometimes heavy metals.
Ceramic coated waffle makers are also made with more natural materials. Ceramic itself is an all-natural material made of clay. If ceramic is scratched or overheated, you don’t have to worry about ingesting or inhaling toxic fumes or chemicals.
Q: How do you clean a ceramic waffle maker?
A: In most cases, the ceramic waffle iron plates will not be removable. If they are, you can hand wash them or wash them in the dishwasher if they’re dishwasher-safe.
Otherwise, you can wash a ceramic waffle maker as you would a traditional one. Always wait for the plates to cool down before cleaning them to avoid burning yourself.
If it has a non-stick surface, clean up will be a breeze. Either way, you can get a dish towel or sponge and gently scrub the plates with a couple drops of dish soap. Be sure to rinse and dry with a clean towel.
Q: What is the best ceramic waffle maker?
A: We’ve narrowed down the ceramic waffle makers on the market to our top 5. From these, we believe you’ll find the right one for you. We recommend our best pick, the Calphalon Intellicrisp, for larger families since this model can make two waffles at a time.
If you’re looking for a lower priced option, our budget pick, the Oster Belgian Waffle Maker, is also a great choice since it’s non-stick and makes classic-style Belgian waffles. As long as the surface is coated with ceramic, you’ll be making a healthier choice from this list.
Q: What’s the difference between a non-stick and ceramic waffle maker?
A: Ceramic waffle makers use ceramic as the main material that comes in contact with food. Traditional non-stick waffle makers typically use Teflon, a type of non-stick material made from chemicals like PTFE and PFOA.
However, ceramic waffle makers can also be non-stick as long as they’re made with natural materials such as titanium. Another bonus of going with ceramic is that it’s a more durable material. The ceramic waffle makers we recommend are up to 11 times more durable than non-ceramic models.
Conclusion
Everyone loves waffles. They’re hearty, satisfying, and delicious. It’s like having dessert for breakfast!
If you want the best for yourself and for your family, then consider trading in your traditional non-stick waffle maker for a natural, ceramic coated one. You can still achieve perfectly cooked, mouth-watering waffles but without using a Teflon cooking surface. Always look for waffle makers that are coated with PTFE and PFOA free ceramic.
As you can see, we’ve done our homework when it comes to the best ceramic waffle makers out there. It’s important that we’re advocates for maintaining good health. One thing to keep in mind is that health isn’t only affected by what you eat but also how you cook your food.
We hope that after reading our detailed ceramic waffle maker reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best ceramic waffle maker that is perfect for your kitchen.
If you’re looking to add more natural tools to your kitchen, check out our review below.
Louise says
Does the Presto ceramic Belgium waffle maker (your #2 best in the list) have any bad materials mixed into the ceramic in order to make it non-stick?
SimpleGreenMoms says
Hi Louise,
The Presto is PTFE & PFOA free. If you click on my amazon link and go to the bottom of the page under customer questions, you’ll see that Presto customer service confirmed directly that it is PTFE & PFOA free. Hope this helps!
T says
Hello. I contacted Calphalon and their waffle maker is not PFTE free.
SimpleGreenMoms says
Hello,
Yes, it is both PTFE & PFOA free. I double checked again with their customer service. I will forward their email to you.
Thank you!
Sharon says
Is there a Mini waffle maker that is Pfoa and Ptoe free?
SimpleGreenMoms says
Hi Sharon,
Not that I am aware of but I haven’t seriously researched any. I wish I could be more help. Good luck!
Sharon says
Are you aware of any thin waffle makers using ceramic? I have searched internet and keep coming up with belgian style.. Thanks
SimpleGreenMoms says
Unfortunately Sharon I dont. Sorry I’m not able to help
Lynnette Seymour says
Thanks for this great list! Do you know of one that is a traditional/classic waffle maker instead of the thicker Belgium style?
SimpleGreenMoms says
Hi Lynnette,
Unfortunately, I don’t. Sorry I wasn’t able to help!