How Does a Waffle Maker Work?

The Basics

Waffle irons cook batter in a waffle mold. The iron heats both sides of the waffle to produce a light and airy cake. The nonstick surface of the iron allows for easy removal of the waffle from the iron.

The Mold

The mold leaves a series indentations that covers the waffle. The indentations aid in cutting the waffle and they also evenly disperse the syrup and toppings across the waffle.

How the Waffle Cooks

The griddle beneath the mold does the cooking. The griddle is powered by an electrical outlet and it uses the power from the outlet to heat a series of electrical tubes beneath the griddle. Though the griddle is nonstick, some form of butter-based non-stick spray is often put on the surface to eliminate the chance of sticking--the griddle gets really hot. It also helps you create a perfect waffle.

The Timer and Thermostat

Waffle makers incorporate timers to gauge the cooking time and thermostats to heat the batter at uniform temperatures. Temperatures and cook times can be adjusted to alter the internal and external texture of the waffle.