Hello, crepe lovers and future entrepreneurs! It’s your friend from Crepe Maker Depot, and today we’re diving into a topic near and dear to my heart: the powerhouse of the crepe world. If you’re ready to take your crepe game from a casual hobby to a streamlined, high-volume art form, then you’ve come to the right place to learn why you should buy a dual plate crepe maker. Forget juggling a single pan during a morning rush; we’re talking about doubling your output, slashing wait times, and achieving that perfect, golden-brown consistency, every single time. This is more than just an appliance; it’s an investment in efficiency and quality.
What Exactly is a Dual Plate Crepe Maker?
So, what’s all the buzz about? A dual plate crepe maker, often called a double crepe maker, is a commercial-grade appliance featuring two independent, circular cooking surfaces (or “plates”) side-by-side on a single base. Each plate has its own heating element and temperature control, allowing you to operate them simultaneously or individually.
Think of it as having two professional crepe stations in the footprint of one. While one crepe is cooking to perfection, you can be spreading the batter for the next one, or even cooking a savory galette on one side and a sweet crepe on the other. It’s the secret weapon for any busy café, food truck, market stall, or even an ambitious home chef who loves hosting a killer brunch.
Why You Should Seriously Consider a Dual Plate Crepe Maker
You might be thinking, “Is it really worth the upgrade?” Trust me, once you’ve experienced the workflow of a dual plate system, there’s no going back. The primary reason people look to buy a dual plate crepe maker is for one simple, beautiful word: efficiency.
- Double the Output, Half the Wait: This is the most obvious benefit. You can produce crepes twice as fast as a single plate machine. In a commercial setting, this means happier customers and higher revenue. At home, it means everyone gets to eat their hot, fresh crepes at the same time.
- Unmatched Consistency: Professional machines offer precise temperature control. By setting the perfect heat, you eliminate the guesswork and ensure every crepe has that signature delicate texture and even color.
- Versatility in a Single Unit: With independent controls, you have incredible flexibility. You could run one plate at a high heat for a crispy buckwheat galette and the other at a lower temperature for a soft, sweet crepe.
- Built to Last: These are not your average consumer-grade pans. They are typically built from stainless steel with heavy-duty cast iron or coated plates, designed to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen day in and day out.
“The leap from a single to a dual plate crepe maker is the moment a business truly scales. It’s not just about making more crepes; it’s about creating a smooth, professional, and profitable workflow. Precise, independent temperature control is the key to unlocking culinary consistency.” – Chef Isabelle Dubois, Culinary Equipment Consultant
Key Features to Look For When You Buy a Dual Plate Crepe Maker
Alright, you’re convinced. But not all dual plate machines are created equal. When you’re ready to invest, here are the non-negotiables to look for.
Cooking Surface: Cast Iron vs. Non-Stick
This is probably the biggest decision you’ll make.
- Cast Iron: The traditional choice for authentic French crepes. It requires seasoning (a process of baking oil onto the surface to create a natural non-stick layer), but it provides unparalleled heat retention and distribution. The result is a crepe with a slightly crispy edge and a soft, chewy center. It’s a workhorse that, with proper care, will last a lifetime.
- Non-Stick (Coated): Easier for beginners and requires less maintenance. The cleanup is a breeze, and you can get started right away without the seasoning process. However, the non-stick coating can wear out over time and may need to be replaced. It’s a great option for lower-volume settings or where staff turnover might make cast iron care a challenge.
Temperature Control and Power
Look for a machine with a thermostat that offers a wide temperature range, typically up to 300°C or 575°F. Precise, responsive controls are crucial. The power, measured in watts, is also important. A higher wattage (3000W-6000W for a dual unit) means the plates will heat up faster and recover their temperature more quickly after you pour on cold batter—a critical factor during a busy service.
Size and Portability
The standard professional plate size is 40cm (about 16 inches) in diameter, which gives you plenty of room to create large, impressive crepes. Consider the overall footprint of the machine. Will it fit on your counter? Is it a permanent fixture, or do you need to move it for events? Check the weight and dimensions before you buy a dual plate crepe maker.
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Our Picks for the Best Crepe Maker in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gourmia 12” Crepe Maker – Nonstick Electric Griddle for Pancakes, Omelets & More, Precise Temp Control with Indicator Lights, Includes Spatula & Batter Spreader, Quick Cleanup, Stainless Steel Trim |
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| 2 | Proctor Silex Electric Crepe Maker with 13” Nonstick Griddle for Eggs, Pancakes, Omelets and Quesadillas, with Temperature Control, Spatula, Spreader, Batter Cup, Stainless Steel (38400PS) |
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| 3 | ULTICOR Mini Pancake Maker – 14-Hole Electric Poffertjes Pan – Non-Stick Dutch Mini Pancakes Griddle – Easy to Use, Easy to Clean – Perfect for Breakfast, Desserts, Snacks & More |
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| 4 | 24PCS Mini Pancake Maker Machine, Nonstick Electric Dutch Pancakes Griddle, Adjustable Heat Multi-Use Poffertjes Pan, Simple & Easy Baker for Home and Restaurants, Perfect for Breakfast & Desserts |
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| 5 | Gourmia 8” Crepe Maker – Nonstick Ceramic Electric Griddle for Crepes, Tortillas & Omelets, Automatic Batter Dipping, Compact & Lightweight, Quick Heat-Up, Includes Batter Plate, Easy Cleanup |
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| 6 | Nutrichef Electric Crepe Maker & Griddle Cooktop - Nonstick 12 Inch Aluminum Hot Plate with LED Indicator Lights & Adjustable Temperature Control - Wooden Spatula & Batter Spreader Included |
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| 7 | Moss & Stone Electric Crepe Maker – 8” Portable Crepe Pan Nonstick with Dipping Plate, Auto Shut-Off, On/Off Switch, Even Heating & One Automatic Temperature Control – Compact Crepe Maker |
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| 8 | 110V US Commercial 25PCS Mini Pancake Maker,950W Mini Dutch Pancake Maker,Non-stick,Dutch Poffertjes Grill,Stainless Steel,Breakfast,Snacks,Desserts. |
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| 9 | nutrichef Electric Crepe Maker Pan & Griddle, 12 Inch Nonstick Cooktop, LED Indicators & Adjustable Temperature Control, Includes Spatula, Batter Spreader, Cooks Crepes, Roti & Pancakes |
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| 10 | Baker\'s Friend Instant Crepe Maker with Handle, Electric Crepe Maker Machine, Crepera Electrica, 8 Inch Non-stick Cooking Surface, Aqua |
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Getting Started: Your First Steps with a Dual Plate Crepe Maker
You’ve unboxed your beautiful new machine. Now what? Don’t be intimidated! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you going.
- Seasoning (For Cast Iron Plates Only): If you chose cast iron, this is your first and most important step. Clean the plates, then apply a thin layer of cooking oil (like sunflower or canola). Heat the machine to a high temperature for about an hour. It will smoke a bit—that’s normal! Let it cool, wipe off the excess, and repeat this process several times until you have a smooth, dark, non-stick surface. Your patience will be rewarded.
- Pre-heating is Key: Always pre-heat your machine properly. For most crepes, a temperature between 190°C – 230°C (375°F – 450°F) is a great starting point. Give it a good 10-15 minutes to come to a stable temperature.
- Grease the Surface: Lightly grease the hot plate with a greasing pad or a paper towel with a little butter or oil. You’re looking for a thin sheen, not a pool of oil.
- The Pour and Spread: Pour a ladle of batter into the center of the plate. Immediately grab your batter spreader (the T-shaped wooden tool) and, using a light, fluid motion, spread the batter in a spiral from the center outwards to create a thin, even circle. This takes practice, so don’t worry if your first few are… abstract art.
- The Flip: After about 30-60 seconds (depending on your heat), the edges will start to lift and dry. Slide a long, thin spatula under the crepe and confidently flip it over.
- The Finish: The second side needs only 20-30 seconds. This is when you’d add your fillings—Nutella, cheese, ham—so they can warm up. Fold and serve immediately!
Pro Tips for Flawless Crepes Every Single Time
- Rest Your Batter: Always let your crepe batter rest in the fridge for at least an hour, or even overnight. This allows the gluten to relax and the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a more tender, flavorful crepe that’s less likely to tear.
- Get the Consistency Right: Your batter should be the consistency of heavy cream. Too thick, and it won’t spread properly. Too thin, and it will be fragile and full of holes.
- Don’t Press the Spreader: Let the weight of the spreader do the work. A light touch is all you need to guide the batter.
- Work Clean: Keep a damp cloth handy to wipe down your tools and the area around the plates. A clean station is an efficient station.
Keeping Your Machine in Tip-Top Shape: Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper care will ensure your investment lasts for years.
- After Each Session (Cast Iron): While the plate is still warm, scrape off any debris with your spatula. Wipe it down with a dry or lightly oiled cloth. Never use soap or submerge it in water, as this will strip the seasoning.
- After Each Session (Non-Stick): Let it cool down a bit, then wipe it clean with a soft, damp cloth and a little mild dish soap if needed. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the coating.
- Deep Cleaning: Occasionally, you may need to do a deeper clean on cast iron. You can do this by heating the plate and rubbing it with coarse salt to lift any baked-on residue. Then, wipe it clean and re-apply a thin layer of oil.
Beyond the Crepe: Creative Uses for Your Dual Plate Maker
Don’t limit yourself! Your dual plate crepe maker is essentially a double-sided electric griddle. You can use it to make:
- American-style pancakes
- Indian Dosa
- Russian Blinis
- Welsh Cakes
- Flour Tortillas
- Flatbreads
- Frying eggs or bacon for a full breakfast service
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what the right temperature for my crepe maker is?
The sweet spot is usually around 200°C (400°F), but it depends on your specific batter recipe and machine. Start there and adjust up or down. You’re looking for a crepe that cooks in about 45 seconds on the first side.
Can I use just one plate at a time on a dual machine?
Absolutely! That’s the beauty of independent controls. If it’s a slow period or you only need one crepe, you can save energy by only heating one plate.
Is a commercial dual plate crepe maker overkill for home use?
For most people, yes. However, if you entertain large groups frequently, have a big family, or are a serious cooking enthusiast who values precision and durability, it can be a fantastic and surprisingly practical addition to your kitchen.
What are the essential tools I need besides the machine?
You’ll need a ladle for pouring the batter, a T-shaped batter spreader, and a long, thin spatula for flipping and folding. A greasing pad is also highly recommended for applying oil evenly.
How do I fix a crepe that sticks to the plate?
If a crepe sticks, it’s almost always one of two things: your cast iron plate needs more seasoning, or your plate isn’t hot enough. Ensure the machine is fully pre-heated before you pour your first crepe.
Final Thoughts
Making the decision to buy a dual plate crepe maker is a game-changer. It’s an investment in speed, quality, and your own sanity during a busy service. By understanding the key features, mastering the basic techniques, and taking good care of your machine, you’ll be serving up piles of perfect, delicious crepes that will keep everyone coming back for more. Now, go on and get flipping! We’d love to see what you create, so feel free to share your experiences and recipes with our community.