Sophisticated but never snobby, crepes are equally at home when served to-go from a food cart as they are at an upscale bistro. To sell these French delicacies to customers, you must invest in a crepe maker that makes producing thin, delicate crepes easy and efficient. We detail the different power types, styles, and cooking surfaces of crepe makers so you can find the ideal model for your operation.
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Before you purchase a crepe maker, you should evaluate whether crepes will be a cornerstone of your menu or a small portion of it. You must also know your budget, power source, and kitchen layout. With these things in mind, use our overview of the production capacities, cooking surface materials, and power types available so you can select the ideal crepe maker for your needs.
When choosing an electric or gas crepe maker, the choice often comes down to price and utility availability. We explain the benefits and inconveniences of each.
Electric crepe makers are popular due to their ease of use and convenience. These units are designed to plug into standard electrical outlets, making them suitable for a wide range of kitchen setups. Most electric crepe makers are equipped with a simple and user-friendly design, making them easy to operate and clean. These machines are available in various sizes to accommodate different production needs, from small countertop models suitable for low-volume operations to larger units capable of producing multiple crepes simultaneously for high-demand settings. The portability and convenience of electric models make them a versatile option for food trucks and concession stands.
These crepe makers are powered by natural gas or liquid propane, providing a reliable heat source for cooking large batches of crepes quickly and evenly. Compared to electric crepe makers, gas crepe makers typically heat up more quickly, allowing for faster production and increased efficiency in high-volume settings. The direct flame heat source also contributes to a more even distribution of heat across the cooking surface, resulting in consistent cooking results. If you want to create a sustainable kitchen, then investing in a gas crepe maker is the best choice.
Single and dual crepe maker units differ both in price and volume of production. Evaluate which type of unit best suits the demands of your establishment.
A single crepe maker is a compact and efficient piece of equipment designed for producing delicious crepes in commercial settings. Unlike larger crepe makers that may have multiple cooking surfaces, a single crepe maker features just one cooking surface. Single crepe makers are ideal for smaller establishments or businesses with lower crepe production needs. They are also a great option for mobile food vendors or catering services looking to offer crepes on their menu.
Dual crepe makers are a versatile and efficient option for businesses looking to increase their crepe production. These machines feature two cooking surfaces, allowing you to cook two crepes simultaneously. This design not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures consistent results across multiple crepes. With a double crepe maker, you can easily keep up with high demand during peak hours without sacrificing quality.
There are three main cooking surface materials for crepe makers: non-stick, cast iron, and steel. We explain the advantages and disadvantages of each option below.
Teflon-coated crepe makers are a popular choice in commercial kitchens because their non-stick coating ensures the batter does not stick to the cooking surface, allowing you to flip and remove the crepes without tearing or sticking. Teflon-coated crepe makers are easy to clean, as the non-stick surface prevents food from adhering to the cooking surface. This not only saves time during busy service hours but also ensures that your crepe maker remains in top condition for longer. The non-stick surface allows the batter to spread evenly across the cooking surface, ensuring consistent results with each crepe. They also heat up faster than their cast iron counterparts. However, if the cooktop is scratched, the non-stick coating may release toxic compounds into your food. You’ll need to budget for replacement parts to prevent this.
One of the key advantages of a cast iron crepe maker is its ability to heat evenly and consistently. This feature ensures that crepes are cooked uniformly, making it an ideal choice for busy commercial kitchens where consistency is paramount. Additionally, cast iron is known for its durability and longevity. The cooktop of a cast iron crepe maker can be seasoned to develop a non-stick coating. This makes it a versatile investment for businesses looking for a long-lasting and non-stick crepe-making solution. However, these cooktops take more ongoing effort to clean and maintain than their Teflon counterparts, slowing down your operation.
Steel crepe makers are a popular choice for commercial kitchens due to their excellent heat retention properties. The durable nature of steel ensures a long lifespan for the crepe maker, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run, but they tend to have a higher initial cost. Steel is non-reactive, which means it won't impart any unwanted flavors or chemicals into your crepes. This makes them a safe and reliable option for food preparation. However, it is important to note that steel crepe makers can distribute heat unevenly, so it may require some skill and experience to achieve consistent results.
When deciding between a crepe pan and a crepe maker, consider factors such as the volume of crepes you need to produce, the level of control you desire over the cooking process, and the space available in your kitchen. Both options can help you create delicious crepes for your customers, so choose the one that best suits your specific needs.
While crepe makers are specifically designed for making crepes, their versatility extends beyond just this popular French delicacy. These commercial kitchen tools can be used to create a variety of other dishes, making them a valuable addition to any foodservice establishment. The even heat distribution of the crepe maker can help you achieve perfectly crispy and gooey grilled cheese sandwiches and quesadillas. The flat cooking surface of the crepe maker provides ample space for frying or scrambling eggs. You can also use your crepe maker to whip up fluffy pancakes, blinis, and chapatis.
While the crepe maker is the backbone of a crepe business, there is an assortment of accompanying tools you'll need. Having the right equipment for your crepe business will not only streamline your operations but also help you deliver delicious crepes consistently to your customers. Here are some key equipment items you will need:
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