Buying guide
Kitchen Blowtorches: Crème Brûlée, Meringue and More
A blowtorch gives a crackling crème brûlée top and toasted meringue in seconds. What to look for and how to use one safely.
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A kitchen blowtorch is small and inexpensive, and it does jobs nothing else can: caramelising sugar on a crème brûlée, toasting meringue or browning a gratin.
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What to look for
- Adjustable flame for gentle and fierce heat.
- Safety lock on the ignition.
- Stable base so it stands upright when set down.
- Refillable with standard butane gas.
Uses
| Job | Tip |
|---|---|
| Crème brûlée | Even layer of caster sugar; keep the flame moving |
| Meringue topping | Toast lightly from a short distance |
| Glazes and gratins | Brown the top after cooking |
Safety
- Use on a heatproof surface, away from anything flammable.
- Never point it at people, and keep it away from children.
- Refill only when cold, outdoors or in a ventilated room, away from flames.
Toast the meringue mushrooms on a chocolate yule log, or the top of a sherry trifle.
Frequently asked questions
What gas does a kitchen blowtorch use?
Most use butane, refilled from a can. Check which refill your torch needs.
Can I use a DIY blowtorch for cooking?
It is not recommended: kitchen torches are designed for food and give a gentler, more controllable flame.
How do I caramelise sugar evenly?
Sprinkle an even, thin layer of caster sugar and keep the flame moving in small circles until it melts and turns amber.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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