Crepe Pan Size: What's Best?

Crepes are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of sweet or savoury fillings. When it comes to choosing the right crepe pan, there are several factors to consider, including size, material, weight, and heat distribution.

The ideal size for a crepe pan falls between 9.5 to 12 inches in diameter. This allows for a larger cooking surface, making it easier to spread the batter and create thin, even crepes.

Different materials, such as cast iron, carbon steel, and non-stick coatings, offer unique advantages. Cast iron retains heat well and can withstand high temperatures, but it is heavier and requires more maintenance. Carbon steel is lightweight, conducts heat efficiently, and strikes a balance between heat conductivity and ease of use. Non-stick coatings, on the other hand, require less oil or butter and are easier to clean.

Weight is also an important consideration. A heavier pan may be more difficult to lift, tilt, and swirl, affecting your ability to spread the batter evenly. Additionally, thicker materials tend to distribute heat more evenly, reducing the likelihood of hot spots.

Lastly, heat distribution plays a crucial role in achieving evenly cooked crepes. Thicker materials, such as cast iron, distribute heat more effectively, while non-stick coatings may require adjustments to achieve the perfect temperature for cooking crepes.

In conclusion, the best size for a crepe pan is one that offers a balance between a large cooking surface and ease of handling. The ideal pan should be made of a material that suits your needs, whether it's the heat retention of cast iron or the lightweight convenience of carbon steel. Weight and heat distribution are also key factors to consider for a pleasant crepe-making experience.

Non-stick coating vs. no non-stick coating

Crepe pans typically come in diameters ranging from 8 to 12 inches, depending on how large you want your crepes to be and the size of your heat source. The ideal size for a crepe pan is between 20cm (7.9 inches) and 26cm (10.2 inches) in diameter. This ensures even heating and makes flipping the crepes easier.

Crepe pans are available with or without a non-stick coating. Here are the pros and cons of each type:

Non-stick coating:

• The non-stick coating reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking and makes cleaning easier.
• Non-stick coatings can be made from various materials, including PTFE (Teflon), ceramic, and granite. It's important to choose a coating that is PFOA-free to avoid potential health risks.
• Some non-stick coatings may not be compatible with induction cooktops, so check the manufacturer's guidelines before purchase.
• Non-stick coatings can be damaged by excessive heat or metal utensils, so proper care and use are essential.

No non-stick coating:

• Pans without a non-stick coating often require seasoning before use to create a natural non-stick surface. This process may need to be repeated regularly.
• Cast iron pans without a non-stick coating are extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.
• Carbon steel pans are an inexpensive option and can develop a natural non-stick interior over time with proper seasoning.
• Stainless steel pans are anti-corrosive, durable, and easy to clean but are poor conductors of heat.

Both types of pans have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on your personal preferences and cooking habits. It's worth noting that even with a non-stick coating, some oil or cooking spray may still be necessary to prevent sticking. Additionally, proper care and maintenance, such as using wooden or silicone utensils and avoiding overheating, can extend the lifespan of non-stick coatings.

Carbon steel

OXO Carbon Steel Crepe and Pancake Griddle

This crepe pan from OXO is a great option for those seeking a naturally non-stick, induction-safe, and easy-to-use pan. It offers even weight distribution, making it effortless to manoeuvre. One of its standout features is the ability to use metal utensils without damaging the pan, which is typically not recommended for traditional non-stick pans. The removable silicone cover that fits over the steel handle is also a nice touch. In testing, this pan performed admirably in both crepe and pancake tests, with nice browning and consistent ease of flipping.

De Buyer Mineral B Crepe & Tortilla Pan

The De Buyer Mineral B Crepe Pan is crafted in France and features a protective beeswax coating that should be removed before seasoning. Once seasoned, it provides a superb non-stick surface and even heating, making it ideal for crepes, pancakes, and omelettes. The pan has low sides, making it easy to access and flip your crepes. It is available in 9.5, 10.25, and 12-inch models, allowing you to select the perfect size for your preferred crepe diameter. However, it's worth noting that the epoxy-coated handle limits its oven use to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a maximum of 20 minutes.

Lodge Carbon Steel Skillet

If you're seeking a pre-seasoned option, the Lodge Carbon Steel Skillet is a viable choice. Lodge is a well-known brand in the cast iron cookware space, and they bring their expertise to carbon steel as well. This skillet comes pre-seasoned with soybean oil and is ready to use out of the box. It performs well with crepes, allowing you to lift and swirl them with ease. However, it's worth noting that the pre-seasoning may need to be augmented with additional seasoning at home to improve its non-stick capabilities.

Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan

The Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan is a favourite among professional chefs and restaurants. This French-made pan is constructed of unseasoned black carbon steel, so you'll need to season it yourself after removing the beeswax coating. While this may require some effort, the payoff is a pan that heats quickly and evenly with no hot spots. It is available in a range of sizes, from 8.63 inches to 17.75 inches, giving you plenty of options to choose from. The welded handle design also makes it easier to keep clean compared to riveted handles.

Cast iron

Durability and Longevity:

Heat Distribution:

Seasoning and Maintenance:

Weight and Handling:

Price:

Size:

When choosing a cast iron crepe pan, it's important to consider the size that best suits your needs. Crepe pans typically range from 7.5 inches to 12 inches in diameter. For home cooks, a pan with a diameter of 10 to 12 inches is generally recommended. This size allows you to make crepes that are large enough for fillings while still being manageable for flipping and handling.

In conclusion, cast iron crepe pans offer durability, even heat distribution, and the potential for a natural non-stick surface with proper seasoning. However, they require more care and maintenance than some other materials. If you're willing to invest in a quality pan and put in the effort to maintain it, a cast iron crepe pan can be a great choice for achieving delicious, evenly cooked crepes.

Electric crepe makers

The main benefit of an electric crepe maker is that it regulates the heat for you, with some models even telling you when they're ready to use. This means you don't have to worry about achieving even heating throughout the cooking surface, as you would with a stovetop pan.

When choosing an electric crepe maker, it's important to consider the size, material, and any additional features.

Size-wise, a 10- to 12-inch diameter pan is a good option for home cooks and beginners. This size allows you to make larger crepes while still being manageable for flipping and storing.

Regarding materials, electric crepe makers typically have a non-stick coating, which eliminates the need for excess butter or oil. This coating is usually made from materials like titanium or ceramic. While titanium is more durable and long-lasting, ceramic is more environmentally friendly and can withstand cutting.

Some additional features to look out for include temperature control settings, which give you more precision in cooking, and included accessories like batter spreaders and spatulas. These accessories can be very helpful, especially for beginners.

• Chefman Electric Crepe Maker: This model received positive reviews for its non-stick properties and even heating, resulting in perfectly thin crepes. It comes with a rateau and spatula made of smoothly sanded wood.
• Proctor Silex Electric Crepe Maker: This maker is a good value option, especially for larger families. It comes with a measuring cup, plastic batter scraper, and a long spatula. It also has a 13-inch non-stick cooking surface and eight heat levels.
• CucinaPro Crepa Maker: This maker has a large 12-inch cooking surface but a low profile, making it easy to store. It has five temperature settings and cooks crepes quickly and evenly.
• Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Crepe Pan: This enameled cast-iron pan is attractive and can be used on all heat sources. While it requires more maintenance to maintain its non-stick qualities, it can withstand high temperatures.
• Morning Star Crepe Maker Pro: This professional-style electric crepe maker has a temperature dial and handles for portability. However, it may need to be set to a higher temperature to achieve a golden colour on your crepes.

With a range of options available, you can find an electric crepe maker that suits your needs and helps you create delicious, perfectly cooked crepes.

Size and weight

When it comes to the size of a crepe pan, the ideal diameter for a traditional stovetop crepe pan is between 9.5 to 10 inches. This size allows for enough room to spread the batter and create thin, even crepes, while still being small enough to easily manage over the burner and gracefully flip the crepes. For electric crepe makers, a diameter of at least 11 inches is recommended, with some of the best models measuring up to 13 inches. The larger size is advantageous as it provides more space to use a spreader and create ultra-thin crepes.

In terms of weight, a lightweight pan is generally preferred for making crepes. A heavier cast iron pan, for example, can be challenging to lift, tilt, and swirl when spreading the batter. Carbon steel pans, on the other hand, are thinner and lighter, making them a popular choice for crepe-making as they are easier to handle and provide superior heat control. Additionally, when choosing a crepe pan, it is important to consider the material and your preferred level of maintenance. Cast iron pans, for instance, require special care and cleaning, including proper cleaning, oiling, and seasoning after each use to maintain their nonstick properties and prevent rusting. On the other hand, nonstick pans are typically lighter and easier to clean but may not produce the same texture and flavour as cast iron or carbon steel pans.

When deciding on the size and weight of a crepe pan, it is also worth considering the type of crepes you intend to make. If you plan to make thicker crepes with more substantial fillings, a larger pan with a wider cooking surface would be ideal. However, if you prefer thinner crepes or plan to use simpler fillings, a smaller pan may suffice. Additionally, if you intend to use your crepe pan for other purposes, such as frying eggs or cooking pancakes, a larger surface area and weight that is comfortable for you to handle might be preferable.

Ultimately, the size and weight of the crepe pan you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. A larger and heavier pan may be ideal for those seeking a more traditional crepe-making experience, while a smaller and lighter pan might be more suitable for beginners or those with limited storage space.

Frequently asked questions