Pancakes vs. Waffles

Waffles

Waffles and pancakes are two very similar breakfast foods with very similar tastes. The difference between the two lies in the structure. Waffles are typically made using a waffle iron. Common types include American, Belgian, and Scandinavian. The structure of a waffle is typically thicker and contains more air within the crust. The typical way a waffle will appear is with a checkered pattern, as shown in the picture below. Compared to the pancake, the waffle is also crispier and harder, but still contains a soft fluffy structure within the crust. Waffles are unique because they aren't always served in a circular shape. In addition to the round shape similar to pancakes, they can also be in the shape of a square. Furthermore, the waffle is often sectioned into four pieces that can be easily broken apart. The overall stability of the waffle is actually quite strong. By holding a waffle by an end, a waffle is not going to sag on the opposite end. The typical waffle would break before it could bend.

Pancakes

The pancake, on the other hand, differs in it's structure. Due to the way the batter is cooked, it affects whether it is classified as a pancake of a waffle. The pancake differs because it is not prepared by using a waffle iron. The structure of the pancake is thinner, flatter and rounder than that of a waffle. Additionally, the texture of a pancake is smoother than the waffle's. A pancake prepared properly prepared is in a perfectly round shape and both sides will be as flat as the skillet is was cooked on. The shape of the pancake will also affect the taste somewhat. It loses the crisp of the waffle and feels softer and more flexible. A pancake could very easily be folded over or rolled up. A pancake would also tear before it would "break."

Overall it is simply the structure that separates the pancake from the waffle. Differences in the two's physical features does create a slight difference in taste, but all in all, the way the batter is prepared is the only thing distinguishing pancakes from waffles.