Is it really necessary to have a special pancake pan, or can we make do with a universal one? This question obviously troubles many pancake lovers. In our guide, we will try to solve this dilemma and at the same time advise you on how to choose the ideal one for your needs. So that homemade pancakes are always delicious!
1. Why it is important to choose the right pancake pan
2. The best materials for pancake pans
3. What to look for when choosing a pancake pan
1. Why a special pancake griddle is worthwhile (and how to choose one)
5 REASONS TO HAVE A PANCAKE GRIDDLE AT HOME
- Perfect shape with low edges for easy pouring of batter and turning of pancakes.
- Versatile use - can also be used for omelettes, potato pancakes or pancakes.
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable holding and turning of pancakes.
- Non-stick surface for thin pancakes without burning and tearing.
- Heavy metal bottom for optimal heat conduction and even browning.
Ordinary pans with high edges are not suitable for making pancakes. Easy handling of the batter, skilful turning and, above all, evenly cooked pancakes like in a restaurant are the main reasons for buying a special pancake pan. The investment will pay you back handsomely.
CONSIDER A FEW KEY FACTORS BEFORE CHOOSING
- Compatibility with the hob - whether it is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic or induction cooker.
- Non-adhesive surface - this is an absolute must when making pancakes so that they don't tear on the griddle.
- Material - Choose from proven materials such as steel (iron), titanium and quality pans with an aluminium core and a durable non-stick surface.
- Size - choose according to your skill and number of servings (most popular size from 24-30 cm)
- The height of the pan - the optimal height of the sides is 2 - 10 mm
- Handle - long, comfortable and insulated to grip the pan even when hot.
2. The best materials for pancake pans - comparison and tips
When choosingquality pancake pans the choice of the appropriate material plays a key role. Each material has specific properties that will affect the performance of the pan. Let's talk about materials such as steel, titanium and aluminium.
Steel pancake pans
Steel pancake griddle - a classic and durable choice with excellent heat conductivity that will last you a lifetime.
Titanium pancake pans
Titanium pancake griddle - lightweight with high durability and easy maintenance thanks to the non-stick surface.
Aluminium pancake pans
Aluminum pancake griddle - lightweight, with fast temperature rise and good thermal conductivity.
Steel pancake pans
Steel pans (as well as iron pans) are a classic and proven choice for making tasty pancakes. Steel is a strong and durable material that provides stability and durability. It accumulates heat well and distributes it evenly across the pan. A quality steel pan can last you a lifetime. By firing the pan and using it regularly, the pan becomes naturally non-stick and its properties improve even further. Investing in a steel pancake pan is definitely worth it.
Advantages and disadvantages of steel pancake pans
Titanium pancake pans
Titanium pans, together with steel ones, are the best choice for chef-like pancakes. Titanium is strong, lightweight and conducts heat perfectly. Titanium pans heat up quickly and maintain a precise temperature for perfect results. They also have the advantage of easy maintenance and cleaning. With this material, you definitely won't go wrong.
Advantages and disadvantages of titanium pancake pans
Aluminium pancake pans
The pan is based on a lightweight aluminium core that has exceptional conductive properties and distributes heat perfectly. However, aluminium is not suitable for contact with food and is therefore combined with steel and a non-stick coating on the surface. The result is a pan that conducts heat perfectly, so pancakes cook through evenly, while also having a non-stick surface for easy handling.
Advantages and disadvantages of aluminium pancake pans
3. What to look for when choosing a pancake pan
Are you looking for the right pan in which to conjure up golden pancakes quickly and easily? We'll tell you what to look for when choosing the right one for your kitchen.
3.1 Choose a pancake griddle with a non-stick surface
To make delicious and good-looking pancakes, it is essential to choose a suitable pan with a high-quality non-stick surface. Recommended types include:
- Steel and iron pans with non-stick surface are very resistant to high temperatures and scratches from metal utensils. No need to worry about surface damage. However, it is important to mention that steel pans become non-stick after the initial firing. The longer you use them, the better properties they acquire. However, they are not dishwasher safe.
- Titanium pans with non-stick surface are stable and maintain their shape even at high temperatures. The surface is resistant to scratching by metal tools.
- Aluminium pans with non-stick surface combine a lightweight aluminium core which, thanks to its exceptional conductive properties, distributes heat perfectly. Despite the risk of scratching the non-stick surface on cheaper models and the possible warping of the bottom of the pan, it is still a good choice for achieving golden and evenly cooked pancakes.
3.2 It depends on how big you like your pancakes.. and beware, a bigger pan will require more skill
When choosing a pancake griddle, it's a good idea to consider the size of the griddle.
- Smaller pans: with a diameter of about 24 cm are suitable for preparing pancakes for 1-2 people.
- Central Basin: with size about 26, 27, 28 cm is ideal for 2-3 diners.
- Big pans: of dimensions 30 cm and more suitable for the whole family or a larger company.
So if you're making pancakes for just a few people, a smaller pan will do. For more people, get a larger model so you don't spend ages at the stove.
3.3. Check compatibility with the hob, especially for induction pans
- Most pans will adapt to different hobs - gas, electric, ceramic.
- Attention, not all models work on induction. Lightweight aluminium pans are not sufficient for induction unless they have at least a bottom made of ferromagnetic material, i.e. stainless steel, cast iron, enamelled metal, etc.
- Therefore, when buying, check the material to avoid unnecessary investment.
Best pancake pans according to customer reviews
Kulina tip
Check the suitability of the cookware with a magnet - if it sticks, the induction pan will work. Good quality non-stick pans are the ideal choice to ensure hassle-free cooking of pancakes on an induction hob. In our range you will find suitable models for all types of hobs.
4. Top brands - quality you can trust 
5. What to choose - a pancake maker or a classic pancake pan? 
6. Frequently asked questions when choosing a pancake pan 
7. Final summary, what you should not forget
4. Top pancake pan brands - quality you can trust
We have tested dozens of models from leading manufacturers and you can be sure that we have selected the best. Explore our range, for example from de Buyer or WOLL.
Pancake pans de Buyer
The French brand de Buyer produces really high-quality steel (and iron) pancake pans that are popular for their exceptional properties. Thanks to their excellent thermal conductivity, they heat up quickly and then distribute the heat evenly over the entire surface. The pancakes are thus cooked through perfectly golden without cold or burnt spots. The de Buyer pans are also very durable and can withstand frequent use.
WOLL pancake pans
The German premium brand WOLL supplies top-quality titanium pancake pans with a non-stick, scratch-resistant surface. Thanks to the innovative material and workmanship, heat is distributed lightning-fast over the entire surface of the pan. They are therefore also suitable for induction. In addition, they allow economical cooking with minimum oil. WOLL pans look modern and are great to work with.
5. What to choose - a pancake maker or a classic pancake pan?
Classic pancake pans they are a good choice, but honestly - who among us has the time and patience to make pancakes for the whole family? Maybe it's time to consider getting a helper like pancake makerwith which even a novice cook can conjure up golden pancakes easily and quickly.
Pancake makers
Unlike the classic pan, the pancake maker designed specifically for quick and easy preparation of pancakes. So why get a pancake maker?
- Thanks to the special shape and non-stick surface of the cooking surface, you will achieve perfect browning and separation of the pancakes without having to add a lot of oil.
- Forget about endlessly tearing pancakes.
- With a pancake maker, you can prepare your pancakes from the start and save a lot of time and nerves.
When choosing the right model, look at parameters such as power, plate size, material and finish. For the preparation of homemade pancakes, we recommend, for example, the proven LONO pancake maker from WMF, which stands out for its robust construction, large cooking surface, six temperature settings and easy maintenance (the cooking surface and utensils can be washed in the dishwasher). Get yourself a great kitchen helper and say goodbye to the worry of burning!
Pancake batter spreaders
The pancake maker and pancake pan can be accompanied by a batter spreader to make the preparation even easier. For example, try the WMF Profi Plus pancake batter spreader.
Pancake batter spreaders are useful for several reasons:
- With the pancake spreader you get an even spread of batter all over the pan.
- Spreading with this tool is quicker and easier than using a spoon or spatula, which greatly speeds up the preparation of pancakes.
- Whether you're baking a small or large batch of pancakes, the pancake spreader ensures that all pancakes are the same size and shape.
Kulina tip
Fancy fresh pancakes, ox eye or potato pancakes? These are all easily created by quality frying pan for pancakes (pancake).
7. Final summary, or what you should definitely not forget when choosing a pan
- For compatibility with the hob. Particularly for induction, it is important to choose a suitable base material.
- Non-adhesive surface made of materials such as steel, cast iron or titanium from proven manufacturers, including de Buyer a WOLL.
- Low margins for easy flipping and moving of the finished pancakes - the optimal height of the sides is 2 - 10 mm.
- Comfortable handlethat will be sufficiently resistant to high temperatures.
By investing in quality pancake pans you're definitely not going to mess anything up. Get equipment that will serve you long and reliably. And above all, enjoy those perfect Sunday breakfasts!
Honza Hajný, Chef of Chefparade cooking school
The secret to making pancakes is using the right pan. Yes, it is the pan that makes all the difference! For pancakes, I definitely recommend quality steel pan. Why steel? The steel griddle conducts heat perfectly and ensures even cooking of each pancake. Plus, it's highly durable, so it will last you for years and years. Of course, the surface is also important. Not a fan of steel? Choose a pan with a non-stick surface, but bet on quality. This will ensure that the batter will not stick and the pancakes will turn easily. And finally, don't forget the comfortable handle! With the right pan, making pancakes will be a real pleasure.