Okay, fellow waffle fanatics, let’s dish about the Brentwood Select TS-230S Belgian Waffle Maker. I’m a sucker for a lazy weekend brunch (and, okay, sometimes even a weeknight waffle craving!), so I’m always scouting for appliances that can whip up something tasty without emptying my wallet. This shiny stainless steel contender definitely piqued my interest – promising fluffy 7-inch Belgian waffles without breaking the bank. Could it deliver?
First Glance:
Right out of the box, the Brentwood waffle maker doesn’t look half bad. The stainless steel gives it a touch of class compared to those all-plastic models. Plus, it’s nice and compact, which is a lifesaver when you’re battling for counter space like I am. And bonus points for the upright storage! It snuggles right into my already-stuffed cabinets.
Waffle Time!
But let’s get real, the proof is in the waffle. With a 1000-watt heating element, it boasts quick cooking times, and honestly, it mostly lives up to the hype. I clocked it closer to 5 minutes for that perfect golden-brown, but hey, that’s still faster than waiting in line at a brunch spot. Now, the non-stick plates? Total game-changer! On my maiden voyage, I got a little too excited with the batter, resulting in a slight overflow situation. But cleanup? A total breeze. One quick swipe, and it was ready for round two.
And the waffles? Oh, those glorious deep pockets! They’re practically begging for a generous pour of melted butter and maple syrup. I went wild experimenting – classic buttermilk, decadent chocolate chip (my weakness!), and even a savory cheddar-chive concoction. They all turned out pretty darn good, although I did notice some waffles cooked a bit unevenly. Some spots were crispy perfection, while others were a tad softer.
A Few Quirks to Consider:
Now, let’s keep it real, this isn’t all sunshine and syrup. The Brentwood is pretty basic. We’re talking power and heat lights only – no fancy temperature controls here. That means you gotta keep a watchful eye to avoid waffle incineration. Also, that stainless steel exterior gets seriously HOT during cooking, so watch your fingers!
The Final Verdict:
All in all, the Brentwood Select TS-230S is a decent little waffle maker for the price. It’s not gonna win any design awards, but it gets the job done. If you’re hunting for an affordable way to enjoy homemade Belgian waffles, it’s definitely worth a look. Just be prepared to give it a little TLC and remember – hot surfaces are no joke!
The Good Stuff:
- Easy on the wallet
- Space-saving design
- Non-stick plates make cleanup a snap
- Cooks waffles in a jiffy
Things to Keep in Mind:
- No temperature control – gotta keep watch!
- Uneven cooking can happen
- Exterior gets scorching hot
- Bare-bones features
So, Would I Tell My Friends to Buy It?
Yeah, with a few “buts.” If you’re a waffle snob who needs precise temperature settings, you might want to splurge on a higher-end model. But for the average waffle enthusiast on a budget, the Brentwood is a solid choice. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the hot bits!