Waffles and pancakes are two classic American breakfast foods that everyone loves. With this widespread popularity, the controversial question arises—which one is better? Many argue that waffles are a superior breakfast food because of their unique consistency, ability to be customized, and convenience for even the beginner chef. First, waffles have the perfect consistency; with their crispy outside and fluffy middle, you have the best of both worlds, which no pancake can offer.
Waffles can also be paired with many different kinds of toppings. If you are looking for a sweet breakfast, you can count on a fluffy waffle drizzled with maple syrup, a slightly melted piece of butter, fresh fruits, and a dollop of whipped cream to satisfy your cravings. If you feel like eating a more savory breakfast, waffles are still a great breakfast option. Unlike pancakes, waffles can be served with fried chicken, catering to those who prefer not to eat sweet foods in the morning.
Waffles are also far easier to make than pancakes. Making pancakes is pretty difficult if you are someone who is prone to burning down the kitchen. On the other hand, anyone can make waffles, as they require less effort because the waffle iron will let you know once the waffle is done. You don’t have to watch it closely like you would need to with a pancake. This enables people with less culinary experience to still make a delicious breakfast at home.
Furthermore, waffles are more than just a breakfast food! Waffles and bubble waffles—unique waffles shaped like bubbles—are used to make ice cream cones. Waffles are also a delicious dessert, making them far superior to plain old pancakes. As Valerie Wong (ʼ24) said, “Waffles can hold much more syrup, and they never get soggy, unlike pancakes.”
On the contrary, many believe that pancakes are unquestionably greater than waffles because of their superior texture, the creative element of pancake art, and the better culinary experience they offer. Fluffy and soft, pancakes are like clouds that melt in your mouth. Unlike crispy waffles, pancakes are airy and light. Pancakes have a pleasant texture that is perfect for drizzling with maple syrup or topping with fruits, or you can add chocolate chips or blueberries into the batter. Additionally, the flat surface of a pancake is ideal for spreading butter, while the same process on a waffle might be challenging.
Moreover, pancakes can be made into art! Pancake art is an engaging way to enjoy breakfast and have fun in the kitchen. Different colors and shapes can make a variety of characters; you can unleash your creativity and design a stunning edible masterpiece.
Furthermore, eating pancakes is a considerably better experience than that of eating waffles. You can enjoy stacking your pancakes to create the perfect portion for you and take delight in the simple act of drizzling your pancakes in maple syrup or covering them with fruits. After adding the cherry on top and the whipped cream, you can admire your beautiful restaurant-ready stack of pancakes made by you. Finally, you can devour the delicious pancakes and start your day in the best way possible. While you can technically stack waffles, it is a much more challenging task. As Swara Shah (’26) declares, “Pancakes are just better.”
