how to season pie irons

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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18-01-2025

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Pie irons, also known as campfire ovens or pancake presses, offer a delightful way to cook up delicious treats over an open fire, campfire, or even on your stovetop. But before you can start creating crispy, golden-brown delights, you need to properly season your pie iron. Seasoning creates a natural, non-stick surface, preventing food from sticking and ensuring easy cleanup. This guide will walk you through the process.

Why Season Your Pie Iron?

Seasoning your pie iron is crucial for several reasons:

• Non-Stick Surface: A well-seasoned pie iron prevents food from sticking, making cooking and cleaning a breeze.
• Flavor Enhancement: The seasoning process adds a subtle, savory flavor to your creations.
• Protection: Seasoning protects the metal from rust and corrosion, extending its lifespan.
• Even Cooking: A seasoned pie iron allows for even heat distribution, leading to perfectly cooked food.

What You'll Need:

• Your Pie Iron: Make sure it's clean and free of any manufacturing residue.
• Vegetable Oil: High smoke point oils like canola, grapeseed, or vegetable oil are ideal. Avoid olive oil, as its low smoke point can create unpleasant smells and potentially damage your pie iron.
• Paper Towels: For applying the oil and wiping away excess.
• Oven (Optional): While stovetop seasoning is possible, oven seasoning provides a more even and thorough result.

How to Season Your Pie Iron: The Stovetop Method

This method is quick and easy, perfect for those who don't want to use their oven.

1. Clean Thoroughly: Wash your pie iron with warm, soapy water. Rinse well and dry completely.
2. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Using a paper towel, rub a very thin layer of vegetable oil onto all cooking surfaces of the pie iron. Don't use too much oil – a light coating is sufficient. Excess oil will create smoke and potentially damage the finish.
3. Heat Over Medium Heat: Place the pie iron on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5 minutes. You should see the oil begin to shimmer.
4. Wipe Off Excess Oil: Remove the pie iron from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use a clean paper towel to wipe away any excess oil.
5. Repeat: Repeat steps 2-4 at least two or three times. More is better for a robust, long-lasting seasoning. You should notice the color start to darken slightly.

How to Season Your Pie Iron: The Oven Method

This method yields a more even and durable seasoning.

1. Clean Thoroughly: As with the stovetop method, clean your pie iron thoroughly and dry completely.
2. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Rub a thin layer of vegetable oil onto all cooking surfaces.
3. Place in a Preheated Oven: Place the pie iron in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
4. Cool Completely: Turn off the oven and let the pie iron cool completely inside the oven.
5. Wipe Off Excess Oil: Once cooled, wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel.
6. Repeat: Repeat steps 2-5 at least two or three times for optimal results.

Maintaining Your Seasoned Pie Iron:

• After Each Use: While the pie iron is still warm, wipe it clean with a paper towel. If food is stuck, soak it in warm, soapy water.
• Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Don't use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as these can damage the seasoning.
• Reapply Seasoning as Needed: Over time, your pie iron's seasoning might wear off. If food starts sticking, simply repeat the seasoning process.

By following these simple steps, you'll have a perfectly seasoned pie iron ready to create delicious memories around the campfire or on your stovetop. Enjoy!