The pancakes versus waffles debate has been splitting breakfast lovers across the nation for decades, and while some may argue that waffles are the better choice, pancakes are clearly the superior breakfast food. Pancakes, unlike waffles, are versatile when it comes to toppings and flavors. They are more accessible and are the definition of the perfect childhood breakfast.

Imagine a warm, fluffy stack of pancakes sitting on the breakfast table. What toppings are there? Is there a special flavor?  From sweet strawberries and whipped cream, to the savory flavors of butter pecan and pumpkin spice, the combinations are endless when it comes to pancakes.

It is arguable that pancakes and waffles are made of the same batter, therefore tasting similar and being able to hold the same amount of flavor and toppings. That is highly inaccurate. Waffles have to be pressed and flattened into their shape, and adding fresh blueberries or chocolate chips to the mix can result in uneven cooking and air pockets within the waffle. Pancakes, on the other hand, can have a number of toppings added directly to the batter without worry. Pancakes also hold butter and syrup well, allowing the two to mix and spread over the pancake, giving each bite the perfect amount of flavor. Waffle squares do not allow for even spreading, and cause pooling of syrup and chunks of butter to sit on the surface. When it comes down to it, pancakes are the more adaptable choice to different toppings and flavors.

Taste is not the only thing placing pancakes above waffles. Pancakes are also more accessible to make at home. Whether it is a quick box mix or getting out the flour, eggs and milk, pancakes can easily be made at home. Waffles are not as simple because they require a waffle press to make them. Pancakes only need a hot and buttery pan to have them cooked to perfection. If making them at home seems like too much work, do not stress because there are plenty of restaurants that sell pancakes. There are the International House of Pancakes (IHOP), The Original Pancake House and Denny’s, which even has an all-you-can-eat deal of pancakes. In contrast, waffles have a limited selection of places that specialize in making just waffles, and are much harder to get access for a yummy breakfast.

So there is taste and accessibility, but there is also just the idea of the perfect breakfast. One can start making pancakes as young as five years old, as long as there is adult supervision, and even so, the memories last a lifetime. Making pancakes is one of the first and simplest meals you can learn how to make, and a better stepping stool into cooking rather than just using a machine that makes the food for you, like with waffles.

Overall, when it comes to the great debate of pancakes or waffles, pancakes will always win because of their variety of flavors, accessibility and their ability to live up to the typical childhood dream breakfast.