The ultimate pancake day appliance guide: gas, induction, electric hobs & air fryers

It’s here. Flipping Pancake Day. This year, Shrove Tuesday lands on Tuesday 4^th March 2025 and while a solid pancake recipe is essential (more on that here), having the right appliances is just as important. As kitchen appliance specialists with over 25 years of experience, we've flipped pancakes on many different appliances. Our team has tested and compared countless hobs and air fryers (yes really!) to bring you this ultimate guide for Pancake Day 2025.

 

Can you cook pancakes on a gas hob?

Yes, and they’re a favourite for many chefs for a reason. Gas hobs offer precise temperature control, and the heat adjusts instantly when you turn the knob. When cooking pancakes, this means you can get that perfect golden-brown colour without waiting for the hob to heat up.

Gas hobs heat your pan using an open flame and raised plates, which is why they’re incredibly responsive. The heat distribution is reliable, so you won’t have any cold spots in your pancake.

Best gas hobs for pancakes

Here are our top picks:

SIA GHG602BL 60cm 4 Burner Gas On Glass Hob In Black With Cast Iron Pan Stands

• Sleek black glass surface (easy clean-up for inevitable batter spills!)
• Cast iron pan stands for stability (no pancake flipping accidents here)

SIA R8 70cm Black 5 Burner Gas On Glass Hob With Cast Iron Pan Stands

• Five burners for more pancake making
• Front dial controls for flipping easy control

 

SIA SSG301SS 30cm Compact Domino Gas Hob In Stainless Steel

• Perfect for small kitchens to make pancakes even with limited space
• Stainless steel finish for a professional look

 

Can you cook pancakes on an induction hob?

Absolutely! Induction hobs are gaining popularity because of their energy efficiency and safety features. With induction, the heat is transferred directly to the pan, while the hob itself stays cool. This makes induction hobs ideal for those who want the fast response of gas with the added safety and efficiency benefits.

Best induction hobs for pancakes

Here are our top picks:

SIA INDH90BL 86cm Black Touch Control 5 Zone Induction Hob 

• Child safety lock for peace of mind while you’re flipping away
• Auto shutdown protection – this hob knows when it’s time to switch off

 

SIA INDH60BL 60cm Black 4 Zone Touch Control Electric Induction Hob

• Sleek black design to match modern kitchens
• Easy-to-clean surface (because pancake batter can get messy)

 

SIA INDH30BL 30cm Black Domino 2 Zone Touch Control Electric Induction Hob

• Perfect for small kitchens to make pancakes even with limited space

• Seven-step selector switch for precise temperature

 

Note: Induction hobs require pans with iron at the base. If your current pan isn’t induction-compatible, it might be time for an upgrade!

 

Can you cook pancakes on an electric hob?

We’re spotting a theme here… yes! Electric hobs, whether they feature fixed hotplates or modern ceramic surfaces, offer a reliable and affordable option for home cooking. They heat up quickly and are easy to use, so you can cook your pancakes evenly without worrying about temperature fluctuations.

Best electric hobs for pancakes

Here are our top picks:

SIA PHP601SS 60cm Stainless Steel 4 Zone Electric Hob

• 6 heat settings for pancake precision - from chocolate stuffed stacks to vegan matcha pancakes
• Easy wipe clean surface for quick batter-spill clean-up

 

SIA PHP301SS 30cm Stainless Steel Compact 2 Zone Electric Domino Hob

• 7-step selector switch to master every type of pancake - from paper-thin crêpes to thick, fluffy American pancakes
• Front dial controls for ease of use

 

SIA PHP601BL 60cm Black 4 Zone Electric Hob

• 7-step selector switch to master every type of pancake - from paper-thin crêpes to thick, fluffy American pancakes
• Easy wipe clean surface so you’ll spend more time eating and less time scrubbing

 

Choosing the right pan for your pancakes

You can’t make a pancake without a pan-it’s literally in the name! We stock cookware sets from renowned brands like Tower, Swan, and Morphy Richards. Explore our collection of pancake-friendly pans here and see why our customers love them.

 

We love:

Morphy Richards Red 20 Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set

• Aluminium body with ceramic non-stick black inner coating
• Suitable for all hob types except for induction
• Heat resistant exterior coating

 

Can you cook pancakes in an air fryer?

Sure can! If you fancy your hand at the viral air fryer pancakes, then, you’ll need an air fryer. This trendy appliance isn’t just for chips and chicken, in fact it circulates hot air around your pancake batter, creating a unique texture that's crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.

If you’re ready to give air fryer pancakes a go, check out our range of air fryers and make this Pancake Day your easiest one yet.

We love:

SIA Extra Large 8L Dual Basket Air Fryer SAF76K

• Dual 4L baskets
• 360 degree air circulation
• Dishwasher safe parts
• 8 pre-set programs

 

Which appliance is right for you?

Appliance Type	Pros	Cons	Best for
Gas Hob	Instant heat change, precise control	Requires gas connection	Professional chefs, experienced cooks
Induction Hob	Fast, safe, energy-efficient	Requires compatible pans	Safety-conscious, energy-conscious
Electric Hob	Affordable, easy to use	Slower heat adjustment	Budget-friendly, beginners
Air Fryer	Energy-efficient, even cooking	Requires counter space	Budget-friendly, trend-lovers

 

This Shrove Tuesday, whether you’re cooking on a gas, induction, electric hob, or even giving the air fryer trend a go, having the right kitchen appliances is the first step for flipping perfect pancakes. With our hand-picked selection of hobs, air fryers, and cookware, you’re sure to create pancakes that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy.

 

Shop our edit: https://www.shipitappliances.co.uk/pancake-day-edit