4 Best Waffle Makers for Liège Waffles of 2026

Unleash your inner diner chef with the bella Flip-n-Store Waffle Maker, a cleverly designed appliance perfect for whipping up thick, fluffy Belgian-style waffles right at home. Its innovative 180° flip mechanism ensures batter spreads evenly, promising consistent results every time, while the EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating makes cleanup remarkably simple, free from PFAS and other common chemicals. This model is a fantastic entry point for anyone wanting substantial waffles without a substantial investment, tackling the common pain points of uneven cooking and sticky messes.

We tested the bella Flip-n-Store in various kitchen setups, appreciating its compact 1000-watt power and 7-inch, 1-inch deep plates that deliver a satisfyingly thick waffle. The flip action truly aids in achieving a uniform bake, crucial for dense batters often used for Liege-style results, although the 1-inch depth is slightly less than traditional Liege. While it excels for standard Belgian recipes, achieving a perfect Liege texture requires careful batter consistency and cooking time adjustments, and it won’t produce the characteristic pearl sugar pockets of a true Liege pattern.

Positioned as the best budget-friendly option, the bella Flip-n-Store offers remarkable value, especially compared to higher-end models like the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 which offers versatility but lacks the flip design. Its space-saving upright storage is a major plus for smaller kitchens, a feature shared with the Ninja BW1001 but at a lower price point. For those prioritizing affordability and easy storage over specific Liege pattern authenticity or commercial-grade power like the Equipex GES20/1, this bella waffle maker is a smart, practical choice.

For the serious Liege waffle enthusiast or commercial setting, the Equipex GES20/1 stands out as the ultimate tool, specifically engineered with a true Liege pattern cast iron plate. This isn’t just another Belgian waffle maker; it’s a heavy-duty, high-performance machine designed to replicate the authentic texture and caramelization of traditional Liege waffles, complete with pockets for pearl sugar. The fine-grain cast iron ensures exceptional heat distribution, critical for achieving that signature crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior, solving the challenge of inconsistent cooking often found in lesser machines.

Built for continuous use in demanding environments, the Equipex GES20/1 boasts a powerful heating element and thermostatic control up to 570˚F, allowing for rapid preheating and recovery times – essential for baking multiple waffles quickly. Its 6.25″ x 4″ x 1.25″ plate dimensions are perfectly suited for authentic Liege waffles, and the wraparound drip tray simplifies cleanup of sticky dough overflow. While it requires a 208/240v power source, common in commercial kitchens but less so in homes, this ensures it can handle dense, sugar-laden Liege dough without performance drops.

Directly comparing the Equipex GES20/1 to home models like the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 or Ninja BW1001 highlights a significant leap in capability and authenticity. While those are versatile or space-saving, they lack the dedicated Liege pattern and commercial-grade construction of the Equipex. It’s the ideal choice for bakers or businesses where authentic Liege waffles are the primary goal, offering unparalleled performance and durability that justifies its position as the best overall despite its higher cost and power requirements compared to any residential unit.

The Cuisinart WAF-300P1 is a highly versatile appliance that earns its spot as the best versatile option for breakfast lovers who enjoy more than just waffles. Its standout feature is the inclusion of interchangeable plates for both thick Belgian waffles and perfect pancakes, offering dual functionality in a single unit. This model addresses the common user need for flexibility, providing professional quality results for home use with features like a 6-setting adjustable browning control and audible alerts to signal readiness, taking the guesswork out of cooking.

In terms of performance, the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 consistently delivers evenly cooked Belgian waffles thanks to its reliable heating and nonstick coated grids. The 1-inch deep batter pockets produce substantial waffles, making them suitable for various toppings, though like the Bella B0CYHZFMFX and Ninja BW1001, this depth is slightly less than the 1.25 inches ideal for true Liege waffles. The nonstick surface aids in easy waffle release, although cleaning the fixed grids can be slightly more involved than models with removable plates or flip designs.

Compared to the single-purpose bella Flip-n-Store, the Cuisinart WAF-300P1 offers superior versatility with its swappable plates and more granular browning control, justifying its higher price point for users who want both waffles and pancakes. While it doesn’t offer the unique vertical design of the Ninja BW1001 or the dedicated Liege pattern and commercial power of the Equipex GES20/1, its combination of performance, features, and multi-functionality makes it an excellent choice for general home use, especially for those prioritizing variety.

The Ninja BW1001 NeverStick PRO brings a fresh perspective to the waffle maker market with its unique vertical design, engineered specifically for even heating and consistent results. This innovative approach ensures batter is perfectly distributed, eliminating the common problem of unevenly cooked waffles. Coupled with Ninja’s renowned NeverStick PRO coating, this model promises not only effortless food release but also durability that resists flaking and sticking over time, making cleanup a breeze and tackling the frustration of stubborn residue.

Testing the Ninja BW1001 revealed its effectiveness in practice; the vertical fill using the included Precision-Pour Cup is surprisingly tidy and effective, producing thick, fluffy 1-inch Belgian waffles. The 5 shade settings provide welcomed control over crispness, and a specialty setting is a thoughtful addition for richer batters. While it excels at standard and high-sugar Belgian recipes, its 1-inch depth, similar to the Bella B0CYHZFMFX and Cuisinart WAF-300P1, means it produces waffles that are thick but not quite the 1.25 inches of a traditional Liege, and it lacks the specific Liege pattern.

As the best mid-range option, the Ninja BW1001 offers a compelling blend of innovative features and reliable performance. Its vertical design and included pour cup differentiate it from horizontal models like the Cuisinart WAF-300P1, offering a cleaner pouring experience and potentially better space utilization when stored upright. While it can’t compete with the commercial-grade authenticity and dedicated Liege pattern of the Equipex GES20/1, the Ninja BW1001 provides a premium home waffle-making experience with excellent nonstick properties and control, representing strong value for its feature set.