the protection of bees
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How to choose the right pancake pan?
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Thin, golden, soft or crispy...One thing is certain: young and old alike, everyone loves pancakes!
But before choosing between a pancake pan and an electric pancake or crêpe maker, let’s take a moment to look back at where this delicious tradition began.
The story of pancakes: pleasure and tradition!
In the UK, Pancake Day - also called Shrove Tuesday - falls in February and has roots in old traditions. Originally, it was a way to use up rich ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter before the fasting period of Lent.
Over time, it became a celebration, with pancakes symbolising the sun and the promise of longer days ahead. Today, whether for tradition or just the joy of eating, flipping pancakes at the end of winter is a beloved ritual.
And who hasn’t had a go at the classic pancake toss, flipping it in the pan just for fun.
Pancakes in the UK
Pancakes come in all shapes and sizes across the UK - some sweet, some savoury, and plenty of passionate opinions about the best toppings!
From classic thin, golden pancakes to slightly thicker ones, there’s a version for every taste.
For sweet pancakes, favourites include lemon and sugar, chocolate spread, or fresh berries and cream. Savoury pancakes can be filled with things like cheese, ham, mushrooms, or even smoked salmon.
And just like in France, people often have strong views on what makes the perfect pancake or crêpe - there’s nothing quite like a friendly debate over toppings at the breakfast table!
Pancakes around the world
And it’s not just us Brits who love a pancake!
Crêpes are a national favourite in France, thin and delicate, served sweet or savoury. Russian blinis have made their mark, and there are plenty of other international favourites too. Baghrir and msemen from North Africa, dosas from India, and banh xeo from Vietnam
The origins of pancake and crêpe pans
Pancakes and crêpes were originally cooked on heavy cast-iron plates over a fire. These days, of course, most people use non-stick crêpe pans, or electric pancake makers, making it easier than ever to enjoy them at home.
Pancake pan or electric crêpe maker?
There are plenty of tools available for making pancakes and crêpes that are just right. Whether you go for a traditional pancake pan or an electric crêpe maker, we can help you pick the best option for perfect flipping every time!
Electric crêpe maker: big on both space and energy
An electric crêpe maker is quite handy for a large gathering, but it’s not always the most practical solution. It takes up a lot of space on the table and can be challenging to store.
You can expect to pay between £50 and £150 for a good model. And be sure to check the coating - many are Teflon®-based, which can contain PFAS and wear out quickly.
Plus they’re not so eco-friendly. They typically consume a lot of electricity and their PTFE coatings are tricky to recycle.
Crêpe pan: practical, durable and affordable
The trusty crêpe pan isn’t going anywhere just yet! It’s light, easy to handle, and simple to store. Its low sides make flipping pancakes and crêpes a breeze, and it works on all types of hob.
For a healthier choice, look for one with a ceramic, cast iron, or stainless steel coating
Best material for a crêpe or pancake pan?
When choosing your pancake pan, pay particular attention to its coating. The material chosen has a real impact on cooking, durability and your health.
Here are the key points to know:
The PTFE-coated crêpe pan
It is the most common and affordable option. Thanks to the Teflon® coating, your pancakes won’t stick to the pan...
…but be aware that Teflon can contain PFAS, chemicals that might be harmful if they get into your food. Even a tiny scratch can let them through, so it’s a good idea to handle your pan with care and replace it regularly.
Stainless steel pancake pan
Stainless steel is a top choice for healthy cooking. It’s chemical-free and extremely durable, though it does take a bit of skill! Pancakes and crêpes can stick if the pan isn’t hot enough or if the batter is a little tricky to work with.
The PFAS-free Cookut crêpe pan
Good news: at Cookut, we offer a healthy, sustainable alternative! Our Incredible Pancake and Crêpe Maker has a PFAS-free non-stick mineral coating, making it simple to use and easy to clean. You don’t need to be a crêpe pro - to flip your pancakes with ease.
As an added bonus, it’s lightweight, compatible with all hobs and available in 8 colours to match your kitchen decor.
Tips for making perfect pancakes
You’ll still need a few tips and tricks to get crêpes and pancakes that are perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
How to prepare your pancake batter
It all starts with a successful batte! For a smooth, even texture without lumps:
- Sift the flour
- Gradually and gently add the liquids using a whisk
- Leave the dough to rest for at least 1 hour in a cool place (This step allows the starch in the flour to swell and absorb the liquids until you obtain a smooth, perfect texture).
A pancake shaker for easy pancakes
Pancakes and crêpes without a mixing bowl, whisk, scales or ladle? Anything is possible with Cookut!
With the pancake shaker, just add your ingredients, give it a shake, and your batter is ready. Perfect for an impromptu snack, it’s also handy for storing batter in the fridge without taking up much space.
The steps to successful pancakes
To avoid pale or dry pancakes, try these simple tips:
- Preheat your pancake pan over medium heat.
- Lightly grease between each pancake with butter, oil, or a greased pad.
- Pour a ladleful of batter and tilt the pan to spread it evenly.
- Flip the pancake when the edges lift and bubbles appear in the centre.
- Cook for a few seconds on the other side… then enjoy! ✨
Don’t worry if the first pancake isn’t perfect - it’s always a tester! Just let the pan heat a little more for the next one.
Vegan pancake tips
No eggs, no milk? Vegan pancake batter is just as delicious. It's very easy to replace these two ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
Replace cow's milk with a protein-rich plant-based milk to provide the necessary binding agent and creaminess:
- Almond milk
- Oat milk
- Coconut milk
- Soya milk
Replace eggs with:
- Cornflour or potato starch
- Apple sauce (2 tablespoons for 1 egg)
- Mashed banana (1/2 banana = 1 egg)
Once again, let our recipes printed directly on the vegan pancake shaker guide you.
Tips for gluten-free pancakes
Crepes can even be adapted to a specific gluten-free diet. Wheat flour is indigestible for people who are gluten intolerant. Here are some alternatives for delicious gluten-free crepes:
- Buckwheat flour: ideal for savoury pancakes
- Chickpea flour: used as a base in the recipe for socca niçoise
- Chestnut flour: adds a slightly sweet taste
- Rice flour: for a light and airy batter
Enjoy homemade pancakes with Cookut!
Say goodbye to coatings with questionable ingredients! Our Incredible Crêpe Pan is completely PFAS-free, PTFE-free, and cadmium-free.
Its naturally non-stick mineral coating is made by vitrifying the main component of sand and silica, together with water at high temperatures.
Not only does it make perfect crêpes and pancakes, but you can also fry eggs, grill meat, and cook fish. Use it as much as you like!
Crêpe pans in an assortment of colours
Healthy cooking doesn’t mean compromising on style. Our perfect crêpe pan comes in eight colours - marshmallow, passion fruit, mocha, fern… pick the one that matches your kitchen or your mood.
➡️ What’s more it is:
- Lightweight
- The ideal size, 28 cm for perfectly round, delicious pancakes
- Compatible with all hobs, yes, even induction!
- Easy to clean, thanks to its non-stick coating that’s also dishwasher safe!
A pan committed to sustainable cooking
Choosing our crêpe pan isn’t just a healthy, sustainable choice for your kitchen - it’s also supporting a European company that takes its environmental impact seriously, reduces plastic waste, and actively fights planned obsolescence.
Delicious, healthy pancakes and crêpes for a better world! ✨