If you like to make waffles for breakfast, Consumer Reports has released its top waffle makers and also has some recommendations about maple syrup.
The appliances were tested on their high and low settings, scored on whether both sides browned the same, and evaluated on how consistent they were from batch to batch.
Some required a lot of practice to turn out a perfect waffle, like the compact cast-aluminum Belgian Waffler from Nordic Ware. It cooks on a stovetop and makes nice waffles, but they weren’t always evenly cooked.
Consumer Reports found that the $58 Waring Belgian Waffle Maker model WMK200 consistently turns out evenly browned waffles that can be toasted to your liking.
But the best of the bunch is the $100 Cuisinart Breakfast Central model WAF-300. Not only does it make evenly cooked waffles every time out, but the plates are also removable, which makes them easy to clean. And it beeps when your waffle is ready, so you don’t have to keep an eye on it.
Your waffle isn’t complete without a dose of maple syrup. Consumer Reports’ expert taste testers sampled 14 and found that all were pretty good so they suggest to buy by price. A well-priced choice is Kirkland Signature Organic Maple from Costco.
Pancake syrup is far less expensive than pure maple syrup. But it is usually made with high fructose corn syrup and with artificial caramel coloring, which often contains 4MEI, a potential carcinogen.
