Why Is a Pancake Pan Worth It?
If you’ve ever struggled to flip a pancake or ended up with a pale, soggy mess, it’s likely because you’re using a standard frying pan. Here is why a dedicated crepe pan is a game-changer:
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Easier Flipping: Frying pans have high, sloped sides that make it difficult to get a spatula under a delicate pancake. Crêpe pans have very low rims (sometimes almost flat), allowing you to slide a spatula under the pancake easily.
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Better Browning: The high walls of a frying pan trap steam, which can prevent your pancakes from getting those signature crispy, golden edges. The open design of a crepe pan allows moisture to escape immediately.
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More Surface Area: Crepe pans provide a wider, flatter base, giving the batter more room to spread into a thin, even layer.
- Versatility: Beyond pancakes, these pans are a great surface for searing vegetables, toasties, tofu, burgers, veggie fritters, flatbreads like chapatis and tortillas, and more. There are also hundreds of different sweet and savoury pancakes from around the world that a pancake pan is perfect for, from Korean kimchi pancakes to drop scones.
How to Choose a Pancake Pan
Our collection is divided into three main categories based on material, maintenance, and performance.
The "Forever" Pans: Cast Iron, Carbon Steel & Spun Iron Pancake Pans
Pros: Performance, affordability, and lifetime durability
Cons: Needs seasoning and maintenance (except Staub)
These materials are celebrated for their incredible heat retention, which ensures consistent browning across every batch. Over time, they develop a natural, stick-resistant patina – but in order to do so, it needs proper seasoning and maintenance.
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Staub Enamelled Cast Iron Crepe Pan (28cm): Ideal for those who want the heat benefits of cast iron without the maintenance of seasoning. Its textured matte black enamel is naturally stick-resistant and won’t rust. Comes with a wooden spreader and spatula, and a wooden handle that stays cool on the hob.
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Lodge Cast Iron Crepe Pan (26cm): The most durable option. Cast from a single piece of iron, it is virtually indestructible and can be used in the oven. It comes pre-seasoned and is excellent value.
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De Buyer Mineral B Carbon Steel Crepe Pan (24cm/26cm): A favourite among professional chefs. It is lighter and more heat-responsive than cast iron but develops a similarly powerful non-stick surface the more you use it. Requires seasoning.
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Netherton Foundry Spun Iron (28cm): Made in the UK, this pan offers the performance of cast iron but is significantly lighter because the iron is "spun" rather than cast. It is highly responsive to heat changes and features a beautiful oak handle. Comes pre-seasoned but requires regular maintenance.
The Effortless Choice: Non-Stick
Pros: Guaranteed stick-resistance, little to no oil required
Cons: Should not be heated above medium, limited life span
Non-stick pans allow you to cook with very little fat and guarantee your batter won’t stick, even if your temperature control isn't perfect.
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Mauviel M’Cook & M’CookB Non-Stick Crepe Pans (26cm/30cm): These use a premium 5-ply stainless steel construction with an aluminum core for perfectly even heat distribution. The M'CookB features a classic bronze handle for a traditional aesthetic.
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De Buyer Choc Resto Induction (26cm): Specifically designed for induction hobs, this pan features a thick aluminum base for fast heating and a professional-grade non-stick coating that is extra resistant to abrasion.
The Elite Choice: Copper
Pros: Lifetime durability, quick heat responses, beautiful aesthetic
Cons: Needs to be heated properly to avoid sticking (instructions here)
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Mauviel M’150S & M’150B Copper (30cm): Copper heats up and cools down almost instantly, giving you total control over heat. These pans are lined with stainless steel for lifetime durability and ease of cleaning.