If you just bought a new ceramic waffle iron, you’ll find a very clear-cut instruction on the back of the packaging, “Do not apply spray-oil!”
But after extensively experimenting for the past few weeks on my grandma’s special waffle recipe, I can conclude a non-greased waffle just does not taste the same.
So why are these manufacturers trying to change the traditional recipe, and more importantly, how to grease a waffle iron without spray?
Why Don’t Manufacturers Want You to Grease Your Iron?
Manufacturers now focus on non-stick waffle irons rather than classic iron cast waffle makers to make your procedure easier. They don’t want you to use any oil as it will damage their non-stick coating.
Teflon or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is used to cover almost all non-stick cooking appliances. Despite the fact that spray oil makes greasing much easier, it sticks to the surface and is difficult to remove, causing you to brush it off.
And now we get to the heart of the matter. Using too much force or strong chemicals on non-stick appliances damages the coating easily. And this is something that the manufacturers are concerned about because it has a negative impact on their reputation. No one wants their products to be thrown away after only a few uses.
How To Grease A Waffle Iron Without Spray?
There are only a few methods to obtain that amazing butter flavor and make sure the waffle comes out properly without needing to scrub the waffle iron’s non-stick coating.
Using Tissue Paper or Cloth to Grease the Iron
You may lubricate the waffle iron by putting a piece of folded paper in butter or oil and then rubbing it over the waffle iron. However, there is one disadvantage: you can’t regulate how much oil you use, and you’ll soon have too much oil on your pan. Make sure you wipe the tissue over the area lightly rather than firmly to ensure you don’t damage the coating.
You can also do this using a piece of cloth or towel, but because it’s extremely hard to remove the oil strain off of them, you’ll wind up tossing them away after a few usages, so this isn’t a sustainable solution.
Brushing over the Iron with A Soft Brush
Using soft brushes is a more convenient method. You won’t have to worry about over-applying or using delicate brushes. I recommend using a soft silicon brush or a natural fiber brush for better results since they are both inexpensive and absorb a good amount of oil, allowing you to grease the entire plate in one go.
One important aspect to remember is that the thinner the bristles are, the simpler it is to spread the oil throughout the waffle iron. Finally, you can just throw these brushes in the dishwasher after each usage, making them incredibly easy to maintain.
If you don’t want to grease the iron yet crave the taste, you can always add some oil to the batter itself. Furthermore, making the batter a bit thicker or raising its temperature could also do the trick.
What Grease Gives You the Best Output?
When greasing, you should stick to the oil that you are most comfortable with. Because waffles will absorb the smell and taste of it. One important note to consider is that you should always use oils with great smoking points to ensure you don’t burn them.
For the best results, it is advised to use Vegetable oil or Canola oil. However, most people go with butter for its aroma and taste; even though butter burns easily. I personally believe they deliver the best results if used carefully.
Note that since you’re already making this on a non-stick pan, it is not necessary to use a lot of greases. But an even spread throughout the maker will only make your cooking process easier.
Conclusion
If you want your non-stick waffle irons to last a lot longer, make sure you only apply a small quantity of grease over them and then wash them thoroughly.
There are multiple kinds of waffle machines, and some may need you to use no fat at all. Like you don’t have to think about much for a waffle cone maker. So, to ensure a better outcome, make sure you choose one that meets your preferences and your recipe.
Overall, I hope you now understand how to grease your waffle iron without spray. I also discussed the ins and outs of it so you can get the best results every time. And I also mentioned a way to share the taste without greasiness.
So go ahead and enjoy your Sunday morning waffles, but don’t forget to clean up afterward!
