How to Make Waffles in a Cast Iron Pan
A guide to the benefits of cast iron waffle makers, where to purchase them, steps to prepare them for use, and how to make waffles in a cast iron pan.
Our electric waffle maker recently stopped working after only one year of use. Instead of hopping right back on the electric-waffle-maker-bandwagon, I did a little research to see if I could find a non-electric stovetop waffle maker instead. I wasn’t sure if they even existed, but I am here to tell you that they do exist in the form of a lovely cast iron waffle maker.
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What are the Benefits of Cooking with a Cast Iron Waffle Maker?
- Naturally nonstick without chemicals contained in other nonstick waffle makers. Source
- No electrical component that will break down
- Cast iron lasts for decades if cared for properly
- If you have a gas stovetop or camp stove you can make waffles without electricity
Where Can I Buy a Cast Iron Waffle Maker?
You can find the Rome waffle maker I have right here.
And for those of you with a family, there is a two-pack version with some serious savings!
You can always check thrift stores and antique stores for used cast iron. Even pieces that look worn out can usually be brought back to life.
Removing Wax From a New Waffle Maker
If you buy a brand new waffle iron, you will need to remove the wax that it comes covered in. Why is it covered in wax? This is to prevent it from rusting during the shipping process. Here are the steps to removing wax:
- Preheat the oven to 400 F and place a baking pan on the lowest oven rack.
- Separate the two sides of the waffle maker and place each side on the top oven rack for 20 minutes.
- Remove both sides from the oven using hot pads
- Place one side of a waffle iron under hot running water. You will notice the soft wax on the iron.
- Pour a mild liquid dish detergent on the waffle maker and use a scrub brush to remove the wax.
- Rinse and repeat step five until you do not see any more wax on the waffle iron.
- Dry waffle iron briefly with a clean towel.
- Repeat steps 4-7 with the other side of the waffle iron.
- Move immediately to seasoning your cast iron waffle maker.
How To Season Your Cast Iron Waffle Maker
Seasoning cast iron involves a process of coating the cast iron with oil and then baking it in the oven at a high temperature to form a protective surface. This is what gives cast iron its nonstick properties. Source
- Use a clean towel or paper towel to apply coconut oil to all surfaces of the cast iron waffle maker. Wipe off any excess oil.
- Keep the oven at 400 degrees. Place both sides of the waffle maker upside down on the top rack so that the oil cannot pool and will instead drip onto the baking sheet below.
- Heat waffle iron for 1 hour. Be aware that seasoning cast iron is a smelly process and you will want to have your kitchen fan running and a window or two open if possible. When you open the oven door, there will be some smoke that will escape.
- Let the waffle maker cool completely. Inspect all surfaces of the iron to see if there are any areas that have not developed a black, shiny patina.
- If all surfaces are not yet seasoned, repeat steps 1-4. I had to repeat this several times before I was satisfied.
- Now you’re all ready to cook waffles in your cast iron waffle maker!!!
How to Make Waffles in a Cast Iron Pan
Begin by preheating each side of the waffle iron on separate burners on medium heat for 5 minutes. You want the waffle iron to be really hot before you put anything on it.
Next, grease each side with a small amount of butter or coconut oil. If necessary, adjust the temperature of the burner you will be cooking on and turn the additional burner off. My burners tend to cook really hot, so I turn the burner down to low. This will prevent the outside of the waffle from cooking too quickly, which will mean that the waffle will still be doughy in the middle.
Add approximately 1/2 cup waffle batter to one side of the waffle maker. Then, hook the other side onto the side with the batter and close it.
Cook for 4 minutes. Turn the whole waffle iron over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
If your waffles did not stick, clean up will be a breeze. Simply wipe down the iron with a clean dish towel or paper towel to remove any excess oil for storage.
Why Are My Waffles Sticking to the Pan?
If your waffles are sticking to the pan, here are some possible reasons to consider:
- Did you properly season the pan before beginning?
- Did you preheat both sides of the waffle maker?
- Have you allowed enough time for each side to cook?
- Did you forget to add oil before you added the batter?
If You Need a Waffle Recipe:
Classic Sourdough Waffles or Pancakes
More Posts You May Like:
- Sourdough Pop Tarts
- Dehydrator Granola
- Mason Jar Pantry Organization
- How to Cook Pizza on the Grill
- 25+ Homesteader Gift Ideas Ultimate Gift Guide
Thank you for visiting Little House on Laurel! If you try making waffles in a cast iron pan, comment below and let me know!