Every housewife should have a sufficient number of utensils to prepare various dishes. But which pan is better to fry pancakes? Using a special frying pan designed for frying pancakes, the products turn out fluffy and tasty, and the process itself takes less time. Therefore, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the features of choosing a device for preparing this wonderful dish.
Fans of traditional Russian cuisine, seeing a variety of kitchen utensils on the shelves, are puzzled by how to choose a pancake frying pan.
Advantages of pancake pans
The strengths of the pancake frying pan include:
- ease and comfort during operation;
- small sizes allow you to quickly heat the dishes and fry pancakes;
- does not require labor-intensive care;
- a large assortment of sizes and shapes allows each housewife to choose the necessary product;
- reasonable prices for most classic models.
The pan for pancakes is made with low sides so that the pancakes dry out faster on top.
Basic requirements for pancake pans
Today, manufacturers produce a huge number of kitchen utensils for frying pancakes. All models differ from each other in coating, size, shape and materials. To know how to choose the right pan for pancakes, you need to understand the features of this cookware.
Each housewife has her own secrets for preparing “suns”.
A high-quality frying pan meets the following requirements:
- The presence of low sides, no more than 1.5 centimeters. They make it easy to toss and flip the pancake.
- Equipped with a durable thickened bottom. This part must withstand fairly high temperatures.
- The presence of a long handle within 16-24 centimeters, which will not heat up over a long period of cooking.
The degree of roasting and the browning effect depend on thermal conductivity.
Stove compatibility
We figured out how to choose a pan for pancakes by size, material and coating. But there is another important point - the dishes must be compatible with the stove .
If you have a gas hob, it would be good to find a special model with recessed rays on the bottom. They promote faster and more uniform heat distribution. For a gas stove, it is better to choose cast iron or cast aluminum frying pans, since cooking pancakes is a long process, which means the dishes will have to be in contact with the flame for a long time.
For an electric hob, it is important to match the diameters of the bottom and burner . If the burner is smaller, the pancake may stick to the edges. Anything more and energy will be wasted.
An induction frying pan for cooking pancakes has a different bottom - it interacts with a magnetic coil located in the burner. Read more about choosing cookware for induction cookers in our other publication. Not only does a magnet stick to the bottom, but other properties are also needed.
Now you know how to choose a pancake pan and what to consider when purchasing, and you can confidently ask questions to store clerks and compare products. Happy and profitable shopping to you!
How to choose a pan for pancakes
The traditional option is a small round frying pan. But today housewives may give preference to square and other original models. The large variety of products can sometimes confuse chefs. Therefore, we recommend that you consider the main parameters that you need to pay close attention to when choosing.
It is important to take into account the weight of the frying pan; a cast-iron frying pan gets tired of your hand quickly.
By material
The most current models of pancake pans are cast iron, aluminum, and steel. These varieties can be supplied with or without a special layer. All the options mentioned have their own strengths and weaknesses.
The calorie content of the dish depends on the non-stick coating, because oil is a very nutritious product.
- Metal. It is characterized by low weight, resistance to deformation, budget cost, and long service life. The absence of a non-stick coating will be a significant disadvantage, because the baked goods will burn.
- Aluminum. The biggest disadvantage of this frying pan will be the possibility of damage and changes in appearance, since the material is very fragile. If the choice nevertheless fell on aluminum types, we recommend purchasing one with a thick bottom and walls.
- Cast iron. This is a classic in every sense. Cast iron pans can last quite a long time, at least 100 years, with proper care. They are not afraid of abrasives and iron cutlery. Weaknesses include heavy weight; also, never put a hot product into cold water. Even strong cast iron has its weaknesses, which can cause it to crack.
Thick pancakes with seasoning are baked covered. Glass ones are preferable.
By non-stick coating
There are several types of products:
- With non-stick layer. These pans allow you to bake pancakes without using oils or fat. This comfortable and attractive cover does not add bulk. In most cases, manufacturers equip their products with a titanium, Teflon or ceramic layer.
- Without non-stick coating. In order to fry pancakes, you will need to use oil and fat. There are not many such types of utensils, because they are not popular among modern housewives.
Gourmets claim that the most delicious pancakes are made using cast iron.
We recommend paying attention to the thickness of the non-stick surface, because the thicker it is, the longer the pancake maker will last. In most cases, a Teflon product functions without problems for 6-10 years, with a titanium layer - about 25 years. For each type of coating, it is necessary to follow the rules of operation and maintenance.
Aluminum pancake makers are three times lighter.
According to compatibility with the stove
Today, there are several types of products for preparing pancakes, taking into account the characteristics of the stove. In most cases, stores offer universal frying pans suitable for use on gas, ceramic, electric and induction stoves. But you definitely need to pay attention to this parameter. After all, all types of frying pans are suitable for the most current gas stoves, and for electric stoves you will need to select according to the thickness of the bottom (cannot be less than three millimeters).
The pancake maker must be protected from mechanical damage and sudden temperature changes.
By diameter
The most current diameter of a pancake maker ranges from 20 to 26 centimeters. These are the optimal pan sizes that will allow you to comfortably flip and toss pancakes. Each housewife will be able to choose the size of the dishes to suit her preferences.
On utensils intended for electric stoves, heat distributors are made at the bottom - radially diverging grooves.
Interesting types of frying pans
Well-known manufacturers of kitchen utensils also offer many unusual variations.
- An electrical appliance intended only for preparing pancakes. They can be standard or submersible.
- Pans with unusual indentations that will later create a design or pattern on the surface of the pancake. These models are ideal for preparing dishes for little gourmets.
The openwork “suns” are turned over with special spatulas made of soft materials.
Stainless steel and cast iron
Modern stainless steel frying pans contain a bottom of five layers. This gives even heating, but due to the poor thermal conductivity of the material, food can still burn to the surface. But you can choose combined models made of aluminum and stainless steel.
In combined products, aluminum is placed between steel layers. The result is a durable and reliable cookware that heats up and distributes heat evenly. Moreover, the products can be safely washed in the dishwasher.
Cast iron is a durable and reliable material that is resistant to mechanical stress. It is not afraid of metal blades and rust, and does not burn. Cast iron provides slow and even heating, so the contents seem to be simmering in an oven, which gives the dish a special taste.
Cast iron cookware is a suitable solution for cooking stews, pilaf and various stews. At the same time, in such a frying pan you can easily fry meat and cook pancakes. But it weighs quite heavily, which complicates operation and maintenance. Therefore, for pancakes, choose a small model.
In addition, you cannot fry in a cast iron container without oil. And before use, cast iron must be calcined and periodically soaked in vegetable oil. This creates a non-stick surface. How to properly heat a cast iron frying pan, read here.
How to bake pancakes on a pancake maker
To make pancakes fragrant and tasty, it is not enough just to prepare the dough. It is very important to follow some recommendations, which we will discuss below.
If the choice is made based on the weight of the pancake maker, it is better to purchase a frying pan made of food-grade aluminum with a Teflon coating.
Try not to use old pans for baking. In most cases, their surface is already worn out, which increases the risk of burning. Burnt pancakes lose their taste. If the surface of the dish breaks during the turning process, it is not a problem with the dishes, but with insufficient eggs. Don't skimp on buying a special pan for this dish. Good and flavorful pancakes are made with a properly selected device.
Cast frying pans with a massive bottom and thick walls are more economical.
The preparation looks like this:
- heat the pan well;
- Before the first pancake, grease the surface with a small amount of oil. For subsequent ones, you no longer need to use fat;
- the first two or three pancakes need more dough, so it will be easier to turn them over in unfried dishes;
- if the edges are dry, this is a sign that the product can be turned over.
The pancake batter is poured onto the ceramic after the surface has been greased.
Features of the handle
When deciding which pan to buy for pancakes, carefully examine the handle . If you fry pancakes without lifting the pan, then this point may not be considered important, but for the classic method, the handle should be comfortable. It is advisable that the handle:
- fits comfortably in the hand when you have to turn the frying pan over and lift it;
- not heated, otherwise you will have to use oven mitts;
- did not slip;
- easy to wash and did not absorb fat;
- I wasn't afraid of heating.
Removable handles on one side are convenient, but check that they won't come loose when flipped over. If the latch is secure, then good. Without the handle, you get a pizza or pie pan that you can put in the oven.
Bakelite handles are comfortable and hygienic ; they do not heat up and lie comfortably in the hand. Cast iron models usually have cast handles. They will heat up, but there is no risk of breakage.
Which pan is better to fry pancakes in?
According to reviews from housewives, the best option is to buy a ceramic frying pan with a non-stick coating. Their main advantage is that such dishes are safe and environmentally friendly varieties. During their production, only high-quality, durable natural ingredients are used.
The owner of such frying pans, made using advanced technology, should know that ceramics is a fragile material.
Ceramic products are more resistant to mechanical stress and do not emit toxic elements when heated. That’s why they do an excellent job of baking pancakes without using oil. At the same time, ceramics do not require complex maintenance and offer comfort during use.
You need to turn the dough on this pancake maker using wooden or plastic spatulas.
How to care for your pancake pan
The “life” of each device directly depends on whether it is used correctly and how it is cared for. Therefore, before you start cleaning the pancake maker, it is recommended to wait until its surface has completely cooled. Only after this can you start washing.
This type of non-stick pan is often used in cafes.
It is possible to wash the pancake pan with a detergent that does not contain strong abrasives or large particles. Such parts may damage kitchen utensils. For the same reason, we recommend using a soft foam sponge or cloth cloth. If preference was given to a cast iron frying pan, it is not recommended to wash it completely, since the oil protective layer is erased. Some popular models from well-known manufacturers are dishwasher safe. This possibility must be indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging.
The induction mode is ideal for frying pancakes.
Rating of the best pancake pans
Many housewives, before starting their search, study the rating of the best pans for pancakes. And this is correct, because such a list indicates the best models based on popularity and reviews of people who are already using them. To make your choice easier, we have compiled a rating of pancake makers for you.
Berlinger Haus Metallic line
This model is equipped with a marble bottom consisting of three layers. The surface is completely safe and distributes heat perfectly. The manufacturer claims that the product can save 35 percent of heat and electricity. Suitable for all existing types of slabs.
During production, durable metal with marble chips was used.
The model is presented with a diameter of 24 centimeters and weighs only 0.8 kilograms.
"Biol" Granite
The Ukrainian manufacturer offers a product with an excellent combination of quality and low cost. The frying pan is made of cast aluminum and is additionally equipped with a three-layer non-stick coating. The height of the sides is six centimeters, the diameter is 26 centimeters, and the weight is slightly less than 1 kilogram. The long handle helps you feel comfortable while baking.
TVS Mineralia
The Italian brand has provided a frying pan with a 7-layer non-stick surface. Mineral chips were added to the base material, and the bottom was equipped with a special stone effect. This pancake maker heats up well and retains heat for a long period. Diameter – 28 centimeters.
Steel utensils can be used during frying, but are prohibited for use with induction cookers.
KRAUFF Jessica
The ruler is represented by an aluminum base with a layer of ceramic applied. Therefore, it is characterized by resistance to mechanical damage, high speed of dough baking, comfortable handle, and induction bottom.
Maestro Granite
The frying pan has an aluminum base with an anti-stick coating, where granite chips are used. The improved product body allows the product to be washed in dishwashers and rubbed with hard sponges, without reducing its service life.
The handle does not heat up while frying pancakes.
Granchio Ornamento Crepe
The advantages of the pancake maker are its bright appearance, multi-layer non-stick surface, which consists of titanium particles. This composition allows you to cook without oil and use hard sponge surfaces during cleaning. The frying pan demonstrates heat resistance, so even during frying it will remain cool.
Rondell Mocco & Latte
The frying pan is represented by large parameters:
- weight – 1.2 kilograms;
- diameter - 28 centimeters;
- sides - 5 centimeters.
It can hold a lot of dough, but it will warm up quickly.
The inner layer is made of a special type of titanium, so you can act on it with a steel spatula or hard surfaces.
Tefal Expertise Plus
The company pleases its consumers with a heating indicator, which will become a sign of the possibility of baking pancakes. The frying pan is equipped with a special thick bottom, which increases its service life with proper care.
Brizoll Optima
In the process of its manufacture, modern materials and technologies were used, for example, a special type of cast iron, ergonomic design. Therefore, cooking is quick and comfortable.
The thick bottom allows you to distribute heat over every millimeter of the surface, which means high-quality baking of the dough.
Fissman Moon Stone
This model takes pride of place thanks to its 4-layer Platinum coating and budget price. It includes stone chips and mineral particles. Such components increase the service life many times. A comfortable rubberized handle and small dimensions make the process quick and comfortable.
The information provided will help you choose the right device for frying pancakes.
This frying pan will delight your household.
#5 – Frybest Rainbow
Price: 1399 rubles
Aluminum frying pan with ceramic non-stick surface. This is a very good pan for pancakes that does not release hazardous substances when frying. The ceramic coating gives the pan an attractive light color and allows you to fry pancakes without adding oil. However, such material is highly susceptible to mechanical damage. Careful operation of the model is required: do not use metal utensils and wash only with liquid products and soft sponges. The frying pan can withstand high temperatures - up to 450 C, but if they drop, it can become unusable. The diameter of the frying pan is 22 cm.
Pros of the model: non-stick surface, fast and safe frying, pleasant appearance, mid-price segment, optimal size. Disadvantages include difficulty of operation, incompatibility with induction cookers and dishwashers, cooking in the oven is unacceptable, lack of a lid and a non-removable handle.
Frybest Rainbow
