Vitantonio Waffle Maker Instruction Manual

Are ceramic waffle makers safe?

Ceramic waffle makers are safe because they are free of PTFE and PFOA chemicals that are used to make non-stick Teflon coating for appliances. These waffle irons have a natural non-stick ceramic coating that is PFOA- and PTFE-free so it is Teflon free and safe. Many people want to avoid the Teflon-coating found in many waffle makers because there are studies that show that it can harm your lungs and pets. Other advantages of ceramic coating include faster cooking times and increased durability. Unfortunately, the most common non-stick coating used to coat waffle makers is Teflon, which is used to treat materials to make them resistant to oils. The primary chemical in Teflon is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It has a very high melting point (327 ºC) which is why it is used in kitchen appliances. However, if your waffle maker reaches temperatures above 350 ºC (662 ºF), PTFE begins to degrade, releasing dangerous chemicals that can cause damage to your lungs when inhaled. Since you are using the waffle maker to bake your waffles, some of the PTFE coating may get into your food cooked in the pan. Also inhalation of the PTFE-fumes from overheating a waffle maker have been found to be deadly to birds. Fortunately, there are many manufacturers that are switching from Teflon to much safer ceramic coating. Cast iron waffle makers are also much safer because they also do not contain any teflon.

Measure 1 tablespoon vanilla, and 1 cup of milk. Add the vanilla and milk to the scrambled eggs. Melt a 1/2 cup of butter. Add the melted butter to the wet ingredients and set aside. In another bowl mix the dry ingredients. 1/2 teaspoon of salt. 1 tablespoon baking powder. Always refer to your instruction manual or the manufacturer's website for cleaning tips specific to your waffle maker. Nonstick waffle makers should only need a light coating of cooking oil before the first time they're used for the day (not before each waffle is made). Vitantonio Twistea Tea Infuser Cup - Travel Mug Teapot Green VTW-10-G 4.1 out of 5 stars 56 Vitantonio Full automatic COFFEE MAKER VCD-200-I (Ivory)【Japan Domestic genuine products】.

Most ceramic waffle makers bake thick Belgian waffles. There are very few that make the thin, Eggo-style waffles that the best traditional American waffle makers make. Also most of them do not come with removable waffle plates but the plates have a nonstick coating which makes them really easy to clean. None of the high-end All-Clad or Breville waffle makers, including the Breville Smart Waffle Pro and Smart Waffle, come with ceramic waffle plates. The best ceramic waffle makers are listed below.

Comparison Chart for the best eco-friendly (PFOA- and PTFE-free) ceramic waffle makers

Features and Specifications

Oster CKSTWFBF22-ECO DuraCeramic Flip Belgian Waffle Maker
Learn More

Euro Cuisine WM520 Eco-Friendly Ceramic Classic Heart Waffle Maker
Learn More

Oster CKSTWF1502-ECO DuraCeramic Belgian Waffle Maker
Learn More

Oster CKSTWFBF10MR-ECO DuraCeramic Flip Belgian Waffle Maker, Candy Apple Red
Learn More

Oster CKSTWF11WC-ECO DuraCeramic Flip Belgian Waffle Maker, Candy Apple Red
Learn More
Taste (out of 5)554.54.54.5
Durability (out of 5)554.54.54.5
Size of Waffles7 inch diameter
1.5 inch thick
7 inch diameter
0.25 inch thick
7 inch diameter
0.75 inch thick
7 inch diameter
0.75 inch thick
3.25 inch diameter
0.75 inch thick
Waffle TypeBelgian (very thick waffles)Classic (very thin waffles)BelgianBelgianBelgian
Waffle ShapeRoundHeartRoundRoundSquare
Flip (Rotary) FeatureYesNoNoYesYes
PTFE and PFOA free ceramic coating (without teflon)YesYesYesYesYes
Material TypeStainless SteelStainless SteelCeramicCeramicCeramic
Variable Temperature ControlYesYesYesYesYes
Baking Time5 minutes5 minutes5 minutes5 minutes5 minutes
Number of Waffles Baked at One Time1 (divided into 4 sections)1 (divided into 4 sections)1 (divided into 4 sections)1 (divided into 4 sections)4
Removable PlatesNoNoNoNoNo
Auto ShutoffNoNoNoNoNo
Audible Alert Signal (indicates when waffle is done baking)NoNoNoNoNo
Red Power On Indicator LightYesYesYesYesYes
Red Ready To Bake Indicator LightYesYesYesYesYes
Green Ready To Eat Indicator LightYesYesYesYesYes
On/Off Power SwitchNoNoNoNoNo
Removable Drip TrayYesYesNoYesYes
Grease Runoff ChannelsNoNoNoNoNo
Folding (Collapsible) HandleYesNoN/AYesNo (High end metal handles with cool touch holders)
Upright StorageYesYesYesNoNO
Dimensions10.6 x 14.9 x 9.8 inches 10 x 8 x 4.5 inches5.8 x 8.8 x 11.1 inches6.7 x 14.5 x 10.1 inches 6.9 x 16.6 x 10.3 inches
Weight6.5 pounds4 pounds3.35 pounds5.5 pounds5.2 pounds

Best Ceramic Waffle Makers Without Teflon

Best Ceramic Square Waffle Maker – Calphalon Intellicrisp Waffle Maker with LCD Display and Countdown timer

Learn MoreThe Calphalon IntelliCrisp is the best square ceramic waffle maker because it features a LCD screen, countdown timer, and ceramic cooking surface that delivers 20% more even heat for crisp, fluffy waffles. The high-contrast LCD screen will display a countdown timer for intuitive control and precise results. This waffle maker has a lock for convenient, compact, vertical storage. There are 5 different waffle shades to match your preferred level of browning and crispiness. The ceramic surface is 11x more durable than the typical nonstick surface and it also provides easy food release and cleanup.

Calphalon Intellicrisp Features and Specifications

• Ceramic-coated cooking plates deliver 20% more even heat* for crisp, fluffy waffles (*compared to standard nonstick)
• High-contrast LCD screen display – Control all the functions and track cooking time with an intuitive high-contrast LCD screen display
• 5-setting waffle shade selector – Choose from 5 waffle shades for your preferred level of browning and crispiness
• Even heat ceramic cooking surface cleans easily and is 11x more durable* (*compared to standard nonstick)
• Locks closed for convenient vertical storage
• Countdown timer tracks cooking progress
• Compact Vertical Storage – The waffle maker folds and locks for compact vertical storage inside your cabinets
• 2-slice Belgian waffle capacity
• LED lights easily display the cook setting
• Material Type: Ceramic Coating
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 11.3 x 5.8 inches
• Item Weight: 9.05 pounds
• Manufacturer: Calphalon
• Color: Dark Stainless Steel
• Release Date: September 2018

Best Ceramic Waffle Maker with Timer – Presto 03510 Ceramic Flip Belgian Waffle Maker with Digital Timer (PTFE and PFOA/Teflon Free Plates)

Learn MoreThe Presto 03510 is the only ceramic waffle maker with a digital timer that counts down to the completed baking time. It comes with a 180 degree flip design that evenly spreads the batter between the waffle plates and evenly cooks the waffle on both sides. Unfortunately, it does not come with an adjust temperature control knob and the waffle plates are not removable so you will have to hand wash this appliance.
Product Features and Specifications
• Over 3500 5-star customer reviews
• Uses ceramic coating that contains no Teflon and is Eco-friendly and non-toxic
• Ceramic nonstick coating easily wipes clean
• Bakes waffles 20% faster than Teflon-coated waffle makers
• Professional-style rotating design with extra-thick grid bakes a 7-inch diameter Belgian waffle with four easy-to-cut sections
• The unique 180° flip design evenly spreads the batter for waffles with a crispy outside and fluffy, tender inside
• Dual function base assures convenient rotation for baking and locks in a space-saving vertical position for storage
• Countdown timer with digital display (requires a CR2032 3V lithium battery which is included) – signals when baking time is complete
• Cool-touch handles – heat-resistant handles let you comfortably flip waffle maker 180° for even baking every time
• Brushed stainless steel exterior for lasting beauty and easy cleaning
• Easy to store – Dual function base locks in a space-saving vertical position for compact storage
• Power consumption: 1100 watts
• width: 4.37″ depth: 11.87″ height: 11.50″
• Weight: 5.01 pounds
Missing features
• No temperature control setting
• waffle plates are not removable

Best Copper Ceramic Flip Round Belgian Waffle Maker with Removable Plates – Hamilton Beach 26031 (PTFE/Teflon Free)

Learn MoreThe Hamilton Beach 26031 Copper Belgian Waffle Iron is the cheapest ceramic waffle maker with removable plates. It is one of the few ceramic waffle irons that comes with the flip feature. It has a 5 setting temperature control and the handle is collapsible which makes it really easy to store. It also has a drip tray for catching any excess waffle batter.
Product Features and Specifications
• Over 700 5-star customer reviews
• Uses copper coating that contains no Teflon and is Eco-friendly and non-toxic
• Copper nonstick coating easily wipes clean
• waffle plates are removable and dishwasher safe
• waffle size: 7.50″ diameter, 0.75″ thick
• 360-degree FLIPPING ACTION MAKES THICK, FLUFFY WAFFLES. Flipping waffles during cooking makes them crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.
• Nonstick Copper-plated Removable Plates – Remove your waffle from the nonstick copper-coated plates with no sticking or scraping; the grids remove when you’re done cooking for easy cleanup.
• ADJUSTABLE BROWNING CONTROL – 5 temperature settings enable you to cook your waffle lighter or darker, just the way you want it
• STAINLESS STEEL DESIGN – Waffle iron wipes down easily and has a modern look that will look great on your countertop
• EASY-CLEAN GRIDS AND DRIP TRAY. The grids and drip tray are removable and dishwasher-safe for simple cleanup
• Power consumption: 800 watts
• UL label electrical rating: 120v – 60hz – 800w
• width: 10.50″ length: 16.0″ height: 9.25″
• Weight: 6.35 pounds
Missing features
• No digital timer

Oster Titanium Infused DuraCeramic Flip Belgian Waffle Maker (CKSTWFBF22-TECO)

Learn MoreThe Oster Titanium Infused DuraCeramic Flip Belgian Waffle Maker (CKSTWFBF22-TECO) comes with ceramic plates that are PTFE and PFOA free. The flip waffle maker will bake a 7 inch round thick, fluffy Belgian waffle in only a few minutes. The flip, rotary feature is designed to evenly distribute batter and cook waffles to perfection. It comes with an adjustable temperature control that will accurately set the cooking temperature to achieve desired results from light, fluffy waffles to crispy, golden waffles. You can store this unit vertically for efficient, space-saving storage.
Product Features and Specifications
• Exclusive, patented DuraCeramic non-stick ceramic coating, lasts 4 times longer; Won’t flake or peel
• Non-stick surface allows the food to release easily and makes cleaning up quick and painless
• Removable drip tray catches any excess batter which makes it really easy to clean up
• Extra thick 1 1/2″ Belgian waffle plates
• Rotary feature with simple flip operation is designed to evenly distribute the batter within the plates and cook waffles that are evenly baked to brown perfection on both sides
• Folding Handle
• Natural DuraCeramic is PFOA and PTFE free
• Heats up to 20-Percent faster to save energy and time
• Red power indicator light will turn on when you plug the appliance into the wall outlet
• Green ready indicator light will tell you when the waffle maker is ready for use and you can pour the batter onto the bottom grid
• Adjustable temperature control knob located on top of the unit that will give you light and fluffy or crispy waffles
• Small, compact footprint: Easy to store by flipping the plates and drip tray to the vertical position for convenient out-of-the way compact storage in your kitchen cabinet
• Outer Material: Stainless Steel
• Color: Silver
• Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 14.9 x 9.8 inches
• Item Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Release Date: April 2013
Pros:
• cooks really fast
• waffles do not stick to the waffle plates
Cons:
• waffle plates are not removable but they are non-stick and they can be cleaned very easily by wiping them down with a towel after the appliance cools off

Best Ceramic Flip Square Waffle Maker – Oster CKSTWF11WC-ECO DuraCeramic Belgian Flip Waffle Maker with Ceramic plates

Learn MoreIf you don’t want a round Belgian waffle that the above mentioned waffle iron makes and prefer square shaped waffles, then you should consider purchasing this one instead. It makes four square shaped thick Belgian waffles and comes with an adjustable temperature control knob.
Product Features and Specifications
• Makes four waffles at a time
• Each of the individual four square waffles measures approximately 3.25 inches square (they are not big as you would expect)
• Each waffle is approximately one inch thick
• Adjustable temperature control knob will help you get the right level of crispness and browning (so you can make light and fluffy or crispy waffles)
• Red Power Light
• Green Ready to cook Light
• Ceramic Non-Stick Cooking Surface does not have a teflon coating
• Unique, innovative DuraCeramic non-stick ceramic coating, lasts 4 times longer and won’t flake or peel
• non-stick surface does not require the use of any cooking spray
• Natural DuraCeramic is PFOA and PTFE free
• Cooks up to 20% faster to save energy and time
• Cool Touch Handle – High end metal handles with cool touch holders
• Convenient, removable drip tray for easy cleaning
• height of the waffle maker in the vertical storage position is 9.25 inches (fits easily in the side of a lower kitchen cabinet)
• Cord is approximately 31 inches long on this waffle maker
• works with 110V or 120V; it will not work with 220v
• heating in watts: waffle maker is rated at 1080 watts
• Color: Black
• Product Dimensions: 6.9 x 16.6 x 10.3 inches
• Item Weight: 5.2 pounds
• Made in China
• Release Date: March 2015

Oster DuraCeramic Infusion Series Waffle Maker (CKSTWF40WC-IECO)

Learn MoreProduct Features and Specifications
• Unique, innovative DuraCeramic Infusion Series non-stick ceramic coating, lasts 10 times longer
• Exclusive DuraCeramic Infusion Series cooking surface, infused with extra virgin olive oil so there is NO need to add oil when cooking
• Natural DuraCeramic Olive Oil Infused coating is PFOA and PTFE free
• Cooks up to 29% faster than ordinary non-stick surfaces to save energy and time
• Power and Ready indicator lights lets you know when the unit is on and ready to cook
• Dura Ceramic coating cooks fast and cleans easily
• Surface infused with olive oil; no need to add when cooking
• Indicator light so you know when it’s ready for cooking
• Carrying handle and lid lock for safe storage
• Stores Vertically – This Oster waffle maker stores vertically in a cabinet when not in use.
Missing features
• available colors: White/Charcoal
• No temperature control setting
• waffle plates are not removable

Cheapest Ceramic Waffle Maker – Oster CKSTWF1502-ECO DuraCeramic Belgian Waffle Maker with Ceramic plates

Learn MoreThis is the cheapest eco-friendly ceramic that you can purchase. It comes with an adjustable temperature control knob and indicator lights.
Product Features and Specifications
• Upper Housing Handle (touch unit only by handle during use or directly after use)
• not a flip waffle maker (no flip mechanism or rotary design)
• Makes 7 inch round waffles easily divided into 4 sections
• Each waffle is approximately 0.75 inches thick
• Unique and innovative DuraCeramic non-stick ceramic coating, 4 times more durable, won’t flake or peel
• Natural ceramic coating is easy to clean and is healthy as it is free of PTFE & PFOA chemicals
• Cooks up to 20% faster saving time and energy
• Adjustable temperature control knob accurately sets cooking temperature to achieve desired results from light, fluffy waffles to crispy, golden waffles
• Temperature Control Dial settings range from min for light waffles to max for dark waffles
• Green light turns on when your waffles are done
• Grill Surface Area: 49 sq. in.
• Hinged Lid
• Polished Chrome housing for an elegant design
• Material: Stainless Steel, Ceramic, Plastic
• Metal Finish: Stainless Steel
• Material: Ceramic
• Color: Silver/Chrome
• Wattage: 900 watts
• Product Dimensions: 5.8 x 8.8 x 11.1 inches
• Item Weight: 3.4 pounds
• Made in USA
• Warranty Description: 1 Year Limited Warranty
• Release Date: March 2014

Best Ceramic Thin Heart Waffle Maker – Euro Cuisine WM520 Eco-Friendly Ceramic Classic Heart-Shaped Waffle Maker

Learn MoreThis is a great eco-friendly ceramic classic waffle maker that makes thin heart-shaped waffles which is really popular with females. It comes with indicator lights that tell you when the unit is ready for baking and when your waffle is done baking. This appliance has a wattage of 850 watts which allows it to bake your waffles in only a few minutes. This waffle iron would be a great present for your mom or girlfriend. The waffle plates do not contain any teflon so it is PTFE and PFOA Free and safe to use. The lid does not lock so it will be difficult to store in an upright position. Unfortunately, this unit does not come with an audio beep alert that tells you when your waffle is ready or an on/off switch. The plates are not removable but they are easy to clean with a damp cloth or paper towel. The waffles comes out pretty easily if you spray the plates with cooking spray first and nothing will stick to the plates.
Product Features and Specifications
• Heart Shape Ceramic Classic Waffle Maker
• PTFE and PFOA Free Non Stick Ceramic Plates
• Eco Friendly plates
• Adjustable Temperature Control
• Wide Drip Rim
• Vertical Storage
• Durable Chrome Exterior
• Instruction Manual/ Recipe book
• Easy Clean up
• Power Consumption: 850 Watts
• 3 years manufacturer limited Warranty
• UL Approved
• Material Type: Nonstick Ceramic Coating
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 4.5 inches
• Item Weight: 4 pounds
• Manufacturer: Euro-Cuisine, Inc
• ASIN: B005LJYMPE
• Item model number: WM520
• Color: Silver
• Country of Origin: China
• Release Date: September 2011

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Vitantonio Waffle Maker Instruction Manual Instructions

How do you use these ceramic waffle makers?

1. Plug the cord into the wall outlet and the red power indicator light will turn.
2. Turn the temperature control knob to the desired setting. It will take about 5 to 8 minutes to reach the proper baking temperature.
3. When it is done preheating, the green ready indicator light will turn on which is the time when you should pour the batter onto the bottom grid.
4. At this point, the green indicator light will turn off as the baking cycle begins.
5. Close waffle maker and rotate unit 180º to the right (clockwise). Do not open for at least 1.5 minutes. Opening the lid too soon will cause under-baked waffles to split, making them difficult to remove.
6. When the green light goes on again, rotate waffle maker 180 degrees to the left (counterclockwise). Your waffles should be done according to the Waffle Temperature Control setting that you’ve chosen. If you want them darker, close the lid and continue baking until the desired color is achieved.
7. Remove waffles from the cooking plate.
8. If you want to bake additional waffles, then close the waffle iron to retain heat. Always make certain that the green light goes on again before baking anything else.
9. When baking is complete, simply unplug the power cord from wall outlet. Leave waffle maker open to cool. Do not clean until unit has cooled.

How do you clean these ceramic waffle makers?

1. Always unplug the waffle maker and allow it to cool before cleaning. There is no need to disassemble the waffle maker for cleaning. Never immerse the waffle maker in water or
place in dishwasher.
2. Brush away any loose crumbs from the grooves. Wipe grids clean with a paper towel, absorbing any oil or butter that might be down in the grooves of the grid. You can also wipe grids with a damp cloth. Do not use anything abrasive that can damage the ceramic non-stick coating.
3. Wipe the outside of the waffle maker with a damp cloth only. Do not clean the outside with any abrasive scouring pad or steel wool, as this will damage the finish. A little metal polish suitable for stainless steel may be used occasionally on the top housing. Do not immerse it in water or any other liquid. Do not place in the dishwasher.

What temperature setting should you use for your waffle?

You should set the waffle temperature control to your desired setting. At first, try a setting in the middle. You may later adjust it lower or higher according to your preference. A lower setting produces a lighter colored waffle, while waffles made at a higher setting are darker and crisper. Different waffle batters will also cook up differently. Over time, you will find your perfect setting for the batter you use.

How do you keep your waffle crispy after it is done baking?

To retain crispness, move baked waffles to a wire cooling rack to prevent steam from accumulating underneath.

Can you re-warm or re-crisp waffles?

Already cooled waffles can be re-warmed and re-crisped, individually, by returning to hot waffle maker. Set Waffle Temperature Control to low. Place waffle on grid so grooves match up; close lid and heat for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Can you freeze baked waffles?

Baked waffles freeze well. Cool completely on wire rack. Store in plastic freezer bag or in covered container,separating waffles with wax paper. Reheat frozen waffles in toaster oven, oven or toaster until hot and crisp.

Why You Should Buy an (Eco-Friendly) Ceramic Waffle Maker

Ceramic waffle makers are eco-friendly, teflon free, nontoxic and easy to clean. It has a ceramic coating that cooks faster and is more durable than teflon coating. The Oster DuraCeramic waffle maker is ideal for anyone who is looking for an electric Belgian waffle maker that is environmentally friendly and thinks that Teflon coating can be harmful. These waffles are much thicker than the traditional waffles that the best thin waffle makers make. It does not have removable plates but the plates have a nonstick coating which makes them really easy to clean.

Why You Should Buy an Oster Dura Ceramic Waffle Maker instead of a Teflon Waffle Maker

Coating lasts 4x longer
All Oster DuraCeramic waffle makers are designed with a unique and innovative Dura Ceramic non-stick coating that lasts 4X longer than standard non-stick coatings and won’t flake or peel.

Is ceramic cookware safe?
Yes they are since they do not contain Teflon. The safe, natural non-stick ceramic coating is PFOA and PTFE free, so you can cook your waffles or anything else without worry.

Cooks 20% faster
The DuraCeramic finish allows the appliance to cook up to 20% faster to get you eating quicker and easily wipes clean.

What are the pros and cons of a Oster Dura Ceramic waffle maker?

• Healthier for you because the ceramic coating is free of PTFE & PFOA
• Scratch resistance makes it scratch less than typical non-stick coatings
• Dura Ceramic finish will cook up to 20% faster and save you time and energy
• Durable coating is 4X harder and will last longer than typical non-stick coatings so it will flake and peel

All of these products that are sold in the United States and Canada are manufactured and UL approved for 110-120 voltage.

Features to look for

Flip (Rotary) Feature
Some of these DuraCeramic waffle irons have a flip (rotary) feature that is designed to evenly distribute batter and cook waffles to perfection.

Adjustable Temperature (Browning) Control with Multiple Settings
They all come with an adjustable temperature control (browning) with multiple settings that accurately sets cooking temperature to achieve the desired results from light, fluffy waffles to crispy, golden waffles.

Vertical Storage
Some of these units can be stored vertically for efficient, space-saving storage which is ideal for people with crowded kitchen countertops.

Indicator Lights
Most have indicator lights that tell you if your waffle iron is powered on and when it is ready for use.

Features that are missing

No digital timer
They do not come with a timer so you will have to use a kitchen timer or watch to figure out when the appliance is done baking.

No removable plates
Unfortunately, none of the Oster Duraceramic waffle makers come with removable plates. However, they are really easy to clean with a damp cloth. If you want a ceramic waffle maker with removable plates, you should expect to pay around $100.

No on/off switch
They do not come with on/off switches so you will have to pull the plug out of the outlet when you are done using it.

Table of Contents

  • 4 Best Ceramic Square Waffle Maker – Calphalon Intellicrisp Waffle Maker with LCD Display and Countdown timer
  • 12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Waffles are reward and indulgence, care and leisure, all stacked up on your plate. And when they are homemade, they have a taste and texture seldom found in waffles available in frozen-food cases.

Waffler

While eggs and bacon are guilt-ridden breakfast fare, waffles, especially those made with whole or multigrains, are more popular than ever, and for good reason. Waffles can be formulated to pack fiber and complex carbohydrates without much fat or sugars.

Each European country serves its own shape and flavor of waffle. Swiss waffles are light and crisp. Scandinavian waffles are heart-shaped.

And Belgian waffles, introduced in this country at the 1964 World`s Fair in New York, are a waffle we have come to love. They are thicker and more crisp than the waffles we grew up eating. The crispness on the outside is one of the things that makes waffles good.

When it came time to replace my stovetop waffle iron with a serious electric appliance, I turned to friend Patti Hardy who is a longtime Sunday-morning wafflemaker. She recommended the Vitantonio Belgian Waffler, which, despite its Italian name and Belgian design, is made in the United States.

The Vitantonio is almost everything a wafflemaker should be. It has a heavy stainless steel and Teflon grid that makes two 4 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch squares. And its automatic 400-degree temperature bakes waffles that are very crisp on the outside despite the steam-baking that takes place inside.

It has great recovery time. You can make two waffle squares every two minutes without lowering the temperature. And its Teflon coating makes it non- stick.

Belgian

Even though its small size means it makes only two 4 1/2-inch-square waffles, the Vitantonio`s neat rectangular shape allows it to be tucked away more easily than older, larger waffle machines.

And there are no controls to worry about. The Vitantonio`s temperature is preset. When the waffle is done, a red light goes on.

The lid is balanced to remain halfway up when removing a waffle or pouring in new mix. The grids are not removable, but you never really have to clean them with anything more than a paper towel to absorb excess grease.

Vitantonio Waffle Maker Manual

The waffle iron sells for $50 at Crate & Barrel, 646 N. Michigan Ave., the Chef`s Catalog The Store, 3005 N. Clark St., and the Crossroad Shopping Center, 151 Skokie Valley Rd., Highland Park.

The Sunday-morning wafflemaker has tried dozens of waffle recipes over the years, but this is the one she most prefers:

PATTI`S PECAN WAFFLES

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Yield: 6 4 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch waffles

1/2 cup pecans, lightly toasted

1 1/3 cups flour

3 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

3 tablespoons melted butter

1 1/2 cups soda water or seltzer

Vegetable shortening

1. Process pecans in food processor until fine; add flour, sugar, baking powder and salt; process until blended. Transfer to large bowl.

2. Whisk eggs in medium bowl. Add butter and whisk 30 seconds. Stir egg mixture and club soda into pecan mixture. Do not overmix.

Vitantonio Belgian Waffler

3. Heat waffle iron until hot. Brush with vegetable shortening. Pour in about 1/2 cup batter. Cook according to manual instructions. Remove with wooden spatula when done. Repeat with remaining batter.

4. Keep warm in 275-degree oven before serving.