Andrew James round waffle maker review

There is a variable temperature control. This is an unusual feature – most of the machines we tested had a fixed thermostat. We found the highest setting worked best for a crunchy crust and light fluffy middle. Lower settings gave a more pancake-like texture.

Left undisturbed, the colouring on the crust was mostly even across the surface. Turning the waffles halfway through cooking, however, helped make sure both sides were golden. The texture inside was consistently light for all batches.

The plates have a slightly raised edge so that the space between the two flower moulds acts as an overflow area if too much batter has been used. As with all makers, getting the quantity right takes a bit of practice and will vary depending on the recipe.

The plates should be preheated with the lid closed and sprayed or brushed with a high-smoke-point oil just before cooking. We got the best results by pouring a little batter into the centre of the moulds and spreading it quickly to the edges before the crust started to form. The non-stick surface works well and the waffles are easy to lift from the mould.

At 1200W this machine is quite powerful for its price point. This combined with the shallow depth of the waffles mean they cook quickly (3-4 minutes on the highest setting). This is useful if you are cooking for a group of people and making several batches in a row.

It has a cool touch handle with a guard to stop your fingers touching the edge of the hot plates. It’s important to note though that the stainless steel top of the machine gets very hot and shouldn’t be touched while on without safety gloves.

Unfortunately the plates can't be removed for cleaning. We found the combination of a non-scratch sponge or cloth and small soft brush was best for reaching between the narrow ridges of the flower moulds.

There is also a crevice around the top of the machine that is a bit awkward to remove crumbs from. The rest of the machine is easily wiped down with a cloth.

Overall this machine is very easy to use. Though fixed plates are awkward to clean they make setting up the waffle maker easier.

The temperature is adjusted with a simple knob and there are two indicator lights – one to show the machine is on and another to show it’s reached temperature.

The machine has no handle clip and can’t be stored vertically but its footprint is compact so this isn’t too much of an issue. The manual has five suggested recipes. It has a two-year manufacturers warranty, helpful cord storage and non-slip safety feet.

Specifications

Removable plates: no
Size: 24 x 24 x 11.6cm
Weight: 2.54kg
Indicator lights: yes – power and ready to cook
Waffle size: 15cm diameter flower-shaped waffles
Dishwasher safe parts: no
Watts: 1200W

Read our full review of the best waffle makers

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This review was last updated in December 2019. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.