I posted on this waffle maker in August after returning from Philly where my adorable friend, Cathy, made me gluten-free waffles.  But, at that time, I’d only eaten waffles made with this device, I didn’t actually own the waffler.

That was then.  This is now.

I bought this at the Williams-Sonoma outlet, at the same time I also picked up this lovely.  I had NO idea how fantastic waffles could be. The difference between frozen waffles and homemade is like the difference between beef dog food and filet.

I periodically ate the frozen variety as a kid, until that fateful day when I horked them up and didn’t eat them again for years and years.  Even after the smell no longer nauseated me, waffles didn’t hold a lot of allure for me.  Until now.

This waffle maker will change your life and your waistline.  Wait.  That’s not a ringing endorsement, is it? OK.  How about: This waffle maker cranks out waffles that are to-die-for and if you pile them with fresh raspberries and a little sprinkling of powdered sugar you will be a happy camper.  Villaware also makes a Farmyard Waffler – same great waffles in cute animal shapes.  Perfect if you have little kids.

Here’s what is so great:

• Belgian waffles are taller than average waffles and therefore are light and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.  Simply Perfect.
• Clean-up in this waffler is practically non-existent.  We slap a wet paper towel in between the plates after we unplug it and it cleans itself like magic.  Not kidding.
• Real honest to goodness non-stick interior.  We do NOT use spray oil (ie: Pam) in this thing.  DO NOT or it will gunk up and ruin your waffler.  Paint a little oil, if you must, but it really doesn’t need it – your waffles will come out perfectly without oil.
• Heats up quickly and returns to cooking temp quickly after a waffle has cooked.
• Beeps when it’s pre-heated and when waffle is ready.  Some reviewers complain about this beep beep being annoying, but our family cracks up each time it beeps because it sounds exactly like the beeping from the old James Bond movies.  You know, the sound right before the bomb is about to explode and the disastrous computer gives a warning Ten minutes and coowwwwnting.  We love it.  But then, we’re odd.  Even if you don’t find humor in it like we do, you’ll never overcook a waffle because the timer is unmistakable.

Lastly.   Follow the directions and FLIP the waffle over on the plate after you remove it from the waffler.  Something about gravity and keeping the cooked waffle fluffy and such.  It does work.  Gravity.  Who knew?

This would make a wonderfully thoughtful gift for your favorite cook this holiday season, or for yourself.  Wrap it up and slap it under the tree from your husband who never knows what to get you anyway.  Act surprised.

Villaware Waffler – $45