Choosing the Best Commercial Pie Warmer for Your Cafe
- Written by Leading Catering Equipment
You spend hours and hours in the kitchen prepping those pies. And you know this: patrons love their pies warm or piping hot. With that, you need a proper pie warmer to keep those yummy goodies at their best serving temperature. Let’s not forget that properly warmed pies retain their great flavours.
The most ideal temperature for pies is between 62-65°C which is a bit above the health regulations of 60°C. This range is also ideal for keeping pies fresh and properly heated. Bakers commonly noted that pies heated over 70°C for a long period of time lose moisture. And of course, who wants a dry pie?
Get to know the temperature that works best for your cafe. From there you can identify the features you need in a pie warmer. Choose equipment with digital controllers that allow you to tweak temperatures with ease.
Pie warmers are not just for pies. They are quite versatile when it comes to usage. You can use them for multiple purposes such as sausage rolls, toasted sandwiches, and fast foods.
There’s more to consider when choosing a pie warmer
Pie warmers are ideal for canteens, cafes, bakeries and takeaway shops. This commercial kitchen equipment will not only keep your items fresh and warm but also lets you organise them beautifully to entice more customers. Because they can keep the foods warm for hours, quality is not sacrificed.
It’s not just about the temperature capability of the equipment. The machine has to be well-equipped with functionalities that can handle the everyday challenges in your cafe. When it comes to choosing the best commercial pie warmer for your business, there are several factors to look into.
Pick equipment that has good warranties
Before purchasing equipment, always ask about warranties and maintenance agreements. This way you'll know what's covered and what is not. Also, ask the supplier if it is possible to extend your warranty options for an upfront cost. When it comes to choosing commercial pie warmers, the right option is always covered with a generous warranty for your peace of mind. Remember that maintenance and emergency repair cost money. This is why it's essential to choose warrantied kitchen equipment.
Questions to ask your supplier:
- When is the equipment covered by warranties?
- Who to contact in case of the need for repair or maintenance?
- Are parts readily available in case the machine breaks down?
- In what condition is the equipment not eligible for the warranty?
Functionalities and features
The type of pie warmer you need should be able to match your day-to-day business operation. There should be enough pie trays to handle your busiest days. Since it's hot equipment, it should have proper stay-cool handles. Ideally, look into pie warmers that are built from stainless steel. They’re durable and easier to clean and maintain. Plus, they won’t easily wear down from repetitive use.
- Is it energy efficient?
- Are the shelves and trays removable for easy cleaning?
- Does it feature a thermostat for temperature control?
- Is it built with stainless steel?
- Does it have internal lighting to illuminate content?
- Do its handles stay cool?
Size and aesthetics
The equipment’s size is a crucial factor to look into when choosing a pie warmer. It has to fit where you intend to put it. It should also fit in pathways that you go through prior to installation. If you can, choose equipment that has castored wheels so you can easily move it with ease when needed. If castors are not built-in, ask your provider if you can install add-on castor wheels into it.
You’re likely going to put this equipment on display so might as well pick one that matches the theme of your cafe.
Ensuring your pie warmer maintains its peak performance.
Just like any other commercial kitchen equipment, pie warmers should be handled with proper care. Here are some tips to optimise your equipment’s performance.
- Make sure to preheat the equipment before use.
- Ensure that the temperature capacity is at least 60 °C.
- Dispose of reheated leftovers at the end of the business day
- Remove crumbs every after shift
As for cleaning, the rule of thumb is to disconnect the power and allow the unit to cool down before cleaning. Do not use water jets or abrasive cleaning products.
The best brands of pie warmers are currently at 15%OFF at Lead Catering Equipment
Lead Catering Equipment offers a variety of pie warmers in different styles, sizes, and capacities.
Their commercial kitchen equipment carries at least a 12-month warranty. Most of their commercial pie warmers come with 2,4, and even 5 years warranty depending on the brand, make and model. In their showrooms, they have clearance stocks and second-hand items which are heavily discounted and with generous warranties. For inquiries, you can send a message to sales@leadingcatering.com.au
Get them while they’re still piping hot at Lead Catering Equipment.
