Electric Crepe Maker vs Pan – Pro & Contra (Review)
It seems that each culture has a different take on the idea of the pancake. This basic bake varies across the globe from America style flapjacks, to the French crêpe, and even the Norwegian Pannekaken. Locating a pancake recipe you adore shouldn’t be too difficult, but finding the proper way to cook it is a different story.
When it comes to pancakes in the traditional sense, most people think having a cast-iron skillet is all you need. A simple batter and a simple pan maybe be the way it was done in the past, but like most things in the kitchen pancake making has been impacted by the progression of technology.
The option to use a designated pancake maker may seem silly to my grandmother with her trusty cast-iron pan, but each method has its merits. This list of pancake making pros and cons will help you make the choice for yourself and help you fill your table with this delicious morning meal.
Pancake Pan
PRO:
A good pancake pan will be sturdy and have a large cooking surface. It should also have a heat resistant handle that makes it easy to flip your pancakes, either with your spatula or a flick of the wrist. A pancake pan is usually a multi-functional item, which makes your kitchen more efficient and less crowded.
CON:
The major downside to using a pancake pan is the size. In order to cook evenly on your stove’s burner, they are typically only big enough for one large pancake. This means cooking them up one at a time. If you’re a larger family, this can cause a headache in the morning as you scramble to finish everyone’s meal at once.
Pancake Maker
PRO:
The obvious advantage to the pancake maker is that it is a specialized device. This ensures that the temperature settings will be equipped for you needs and limit the amount of overdone pancakes. Another pro is the size. Pancake makers are designed to make meals for two or more people easily. They will often make 4 pancakes at a time.
CON:
As with most specialized kitchen appliances, the major drawback is the lost counter space. Likewise, because of its specialized design, you will most likely be struggling to clean a large cooking surface without submerging the built in electric elements in the water. Pancake makers will often have non-stick surfaces that make for easy flipping, but tend to wear down with repeated use. If you can commit to using plastic utensils exclusively this will prolong the life of your pancake maker significantly, but for those who prefer metal utensils the hardy cast-iron skillet holds more appeal.
Which Will You Choose?
This is of course all a matter of opinion. Making pancakes is a fun way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen in the morning and adding their favorite toppings to a classic dish. Find the method that works for you and enjoy the process of making this simple treat throughout your week.
