There could be a few reasons why your waffles, as well as those of others, don't come out of the iron crisp. Here are some possible factors to consider:
Batter consistency: The consistency of your waffle batter plays a crucial role in achieving a crispy exterior. If the batter is too thin or runny, it may result in softer waffles. To enhance crispness, ensure that your batter is thick enough to coat the waffle iron evenly. Adjust the liquid-to-dry ingredient ratio if needed.
Leavening agents: The leavening agents in the batter, such as baking powder or baking soda, contribute to the texture of the waffles. If you use too much leavening agent, the waffles may become too light and fluffy, potentially losing some crispness. Follow the recipe's instructions regarding the appropriate amount of leavening agents to maintain a balance between fluffiness and crispness.
Waffle iron temperature: The temperature of the waffle iron is crucial for achieving crispy waffles. If the iron is not hot enough, the waffles may turn out softer. On the other hand, if the iron is too hot, the waffles can become overly browned or even burnt. It's essential to preheat the waffle iron thoroughly and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the recommended temperature settings.
Cooking time: The duration for which you cook the waffles also affects their crispness. If you remove the waffles from the iron too early, they may not have sufficient time to develop a crispy exterior. Conversely, if you leave them in the iron for too long, they can become overly dry or dark. Pay attention to the cooking time specified in your recipe, and adjust as needed based on the desired level of crispness.
Moisture content: Excessive moisture in the batter or the ingredients you add to it, such as fruits or vegetables, can impact the crispness of the waffles. Moisture can make the waffles softer and reduce their crispiness. Ensure that the ingredients you incorporate into the batter are well-drained, and consider reducing the amount of liquid in the recipe if you consistently experience soggy waffles.
By considering these factors and making adjustments to your batter consistency, leavening agents, iron temperature, cooking time, and moisture content, you can increase the likelihood of achieving crisp and delicious waffles. Experimentation and slight modifications to your recipe may be necessary to find the perfect balance for your preferences.