A waffle iron is a cooking appliance consisting of two hinged metal plates, often patterned with a grid, that are heated and used to bake waffles from a leavened batter or dough.
Originating in the Middle Ages in Europe, early waffle irons were constructed to be held over open fires, while modern versions are typically electrically heated. The characteristic grid pattern of the plates gives waffles their distinctive shape and texture.
Though primarily used to prepare waffles, waffle irons have also been utilized to shape thin waffle cones for ice cream, particularly in the United States since the early 20th century. Waffle irons are produced in various designs, including round, square, and novelty shapes, and have played a role in regional cuisine with devices tailored for Belgian, American, and Scandinavian waffle styles.
The development of waffle irons was influenced by the irons used to make host wafers for Christian liturgical use; these host wafer irons, known as "hostie" or "oblata" irons, featured plain or decorated metal plates and were among the earliest metal molds used for thin, unleavened breads, preceding the adaptation of this technology for sweetened and leavened waffle batters.