Despite popular belief, rolling pins come in various designs, and not all are equally adept at producing perfect pastry. The ideal rolling pin choice can mean the distinction between a flawlessly crafted pie crust and one that misses the mark. When searching for a rolling pin, factors such as barrel length, material composition, required dough thickness, and ease of handling should all be taken into account. While preferences vary, including the choice between a French-style pin and one with handles, certain guidelines can lead to sound decisions, such as opting for a marble pin for tasks like puff pastry, benefiting from the chilling effect it offers.
Food and Meal dispatched several popular best rolling pins to the home of one of our adept product testers. There, she skillfully rolled out pie crusts and cookie dough using each one, meticulously examining their features, including handle comfort and ease of cleaning. Our goal was to pinpoint the top-tier rolling pins that cater to your baking needs.
What to Look for in Rolling Pins
| Easy to Use | The ideal rolling pin should be long enough to handle large dough sheets effortlessly and be lightweight yet sturdy for smooth rolling without strain. If it has handles, they should move smoothly. |
| Practical Design | Choose between handled or handle-less options, ensuring it’s the right length and won’t strain your wrists. A good pin should roll dough uniformly, work with various types without sticking, and be crack-free and smooth. |
| Maintenance | Most rolling pins need hand-washing, with one-piece wooden ones being the easiest to clean. Well-crafted hardwood pins can last for generations with proper care. |
Best Rolling Pins of 2024
J.K. Adams Maple Wood French Dowel Rolling Pin
Durable and ergonomic maple wood construction
Easy to clean and maintain
Offers excellent maneuverability and control
A favorite in many restaurant kitchens and the home kitchens of professional chefs, the French-style rolling pin is becoming increasingly popular among cooks of all levels. This style of rolling pin, made from a single dowel with tapered ends and no handles, offers more control over the pin and makes it easier to gauge the texture of the dough.
This French-style model from J.K. Adams is handcrafted in Vermont from maple wood. As the same brand as our top overall rolling pin, J.K. Adams has over 60 years of experience in the business in New England, demonstrating their expertise in rolling pin craftsmanship. Available in two thicknesses, the 2-inch-thick FRP-1 and the thinner FRP-2, this rolling pin is one of the longest on our list, measuring over 20 inches. This length allows you to roll out a full rectangle of cinnamon roll dough without having to work in sections and worry about achieving an even thickness.
In our testing, we found it suitable for cookies, but it truly shone when used for pie dough. The handle-free design and tapered ends made it easy to change directions to shape a circular dough to fit a pie pan. This pin should be hand-washed and occasionally treated with mineral oil. If the surface becomes too rough, you can lightly sand it and then wash and apply oil again to restore the finish.
Muso Wood Sapele Wooden French Rolling Pin
Comfortable and ergonomic handle-less design
Smooth and precise rolling performance
Easy to clean and maintain
The Muso Wood rolling pin’s gentle taper facilitates easy maneuvering during dough rolling, striking a balance that accommodates beginners without posing a steep learning curve, typical of French rolling pins. Crafted from sapele wood, an African tropical hardwood akin to mahogany, this pin undergoes a meticulous three-time hand-polishing process. It is then finished with food-safe mineral oil, safeguarding it from excess moisture and potential dough adhesion.
During our testing phase, we found the Muso rolling pin to be a delight to use. It effortlessly rolls out nearly flawless circular pie dough, preventing any dough from sticking to its surface. The only minor observation was its slightly shorter length compared to some other models, which slightly hinders the seamless transfer of dough from the counter to a pie plate. However, this compact size, along with a reduced diameter and weight, renders it a prime choice for individuals with smaller hands or those seeking a lighter rolling pin.
When it comes to cleaning, we discovered that it is effortlessly done by hand, despite some flour residue sticking to the name embossed on the pin’s end. Recognizing the storage challenge posed by its length, we appreciate the inclusion of a convenient hanging hole drilled into the end, simplifying storage options for users.
Befano French Rolling Pin 18 Inch
Comfortable and ergonomic design for seamless handling
Impressive rolling capabilities for precise results
Easy to clean and maintain
A favorite in many restaurant kitchens and the home kitchens of professional chefs, the French-style rolling pin is becoming increasingly popular among cooks of all levels. This style of rolling pin, made from a single dowel with tapered ends and no handles, offers more control over the pin and makes it easier to gauge the texture of the dough.
This French-style model from J.K. Adams is handcrafted in Vermont from maple wood. As the same brand as our top overall rolling pin, J.K. Adams has over 60 years of experience in the business in New England, demonstrating their expertise in rolling pin craftsmanship. Available in two thicknesses, the 2-inch-thick FRP-1 and the thinner FRP-2, this rolling pin is one of the longest on our list, measuring over 20 inches. This length allows you to roll out a full rectangle of cinnamon roll dough without having to work in sections and worry about achieving an even thickness.
In our testing, we found it suitable for cookies, but it truly shone when used for pie dough. The handle-free design and tapered ends made it easy to change directions to shape a circular dough to fit a pie pan. This pin should be hand-washed and occasionally treated with mineral oil. If the surface becomes too rough, you can lightly sand it and then wash and apply oil again to restore the finish.
Fox Run Polished Marble Rolling Pin with Wooden Cradle
Convenient wooden cradle for storage
Smooth and uniform rolling for superior results
Easy to clean and maintain
Apart from its visual appeal, a marble rolling pin offers significant advantages. Firstly, unlike wood, it can be chilled in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for handling temperature-sensitive laminated doughs like puff pastry or pie crust. Secondly, its substantial weight compared to wooden counterparts makes it adept at effortlessly flattening stiff dough.
The Fox Run model boasts a 10-inch pin with 4-inch wooden handles on each end, accompanied by a complementary wooden base for convenient storage in cabinets or open shelving, eliminating any concerns about a heavy 5-pound marble pin unexpectedly rolling off and causing an unwelcome encounter with your toes.
During our initial tests, we noticed the handles were incredibly tight, resulting in minimal spin of the pin. With subsequent use, we observed a slight increase in spin, although the stiffness persisted, making the rolling process more demanding than expected. However, the option of utilizing it as a dowel-style pin, disregarding the handles entirely, presents a practical alternative. If you can overlook these aspects, including the weight and the price, this rolling pin unquestionably stands as a valuable addition to your culinary arsenal.
J.K. Adams Dowel Rolling Pin
Versatile and user-friendly for various baking tasks
Straightforward to clean and maintain
For those tackling large pizzas or working with extensive sheets of pastry or cookie dough, a longer rolling pin is a game-changer, facilitating the achievement of uniform thickness. This 19-inch straight rolling pin, free of handles that can hinder movement, is handcrafted in Vermont using sustainably grown maple wood sourced from local trees.
Measuring 2 inches in diameter and weighing just under 1.5 pounds, this pin strikes the ideal balance, providing ample heft for handling dough while remaining manageable during use. While not dishwasher-safe, it can be washed with warm, soapy water and should be promptly dried. However, its extended length may pose a storage challenge, as it might not fit into a standard kitchen drawer.
During testing, I found this pin to be a joy to use. Its extended length proved beneficial for handling larger batches of cookie dough, allowing me to apply pressure wherever needed along the pin’s surface. Additionally, its lack of handles made it particularly convenient for preparing super-cold pie dough, serving as an effective tool for pre-rolling preparation.
Joseph Joseph Adjustable Rolling Pin with Removable Rings
User-friendly and adaptable for various baking tasks
Easy to clean and maintain
For meticulous bakers who prioritize precision but may struggle with estimating their dough’s width or thickness, the Joseph Joseph Adjustable Rolling Pin proves to be an ideal solution. Its engraved measurements along the barrel allow you to ascertain the pastry’s length without the need for a separate ruler.
What’s more, this solid-beech pin assists in rolling your dough to an exact thickness, ensuring even baking of your cookies. By attaching one of the vibrant plastic rings to each end of the pin, you can effortlessly roll the dough to the desired depth. The rings display both US and metric measurements, offering increments of 1/16, 1/6, 1/4, and 3/8 of an inch. During testing, these measurements proved invaluable for cookie making. However, it was a bit perplexing that 1/8 inch was not included. Nonetheless, it was simple to utilize a slightly thicker measure and then roll a bit more with the rings removed.
When precision was less of a concern, we removed the rings and employed it as a straight dowel or Shaker-style rolling pin, akin to the French style but without the tapered ends. The barrel’s considerable length makes it perfect for handling wider doughs. Lastly, ensuring the rolling pin’s longevity necessitates hand-washing.
J.K. Adams Maple Wood Medium Gourmet Rolling Pin
Comfortable grip for smooth maneuverability
Seamless rolling action for precise results
Simple maintenance and long-lasting quality
The familiar “baker’s” or “American” rolling pin style features a wooden barrel rotating around a dowel attached to two wooden handles, commonly found in many home kitchens. Offering practicality and ease of use, this style remains a staple choice for baking enthusiasts.
Crafted in Vermont from solid maple, this particular rolling pin boasts a substantial 21-inch overall length with a 12-inch barrel. Its waxed barrel effectively prevents sticking during dough rolling, ensuring a seamless baking experience. The inclusion of a steel axle simplifies maintenance, allowing for easy cleaning with warm soapy water and immediate drying.
In our rigorous home testing, this rolling pin emerged as a clear favorite due to its impressive size and weight. Its capacity to handle larger dough quantities with ease, coupled with its smooth rolling action, contributed to its standout performance and user-friendly design.
Consumer feedback highlighted a common concern regarding the adhesive residue left by the J.K. Adams sticker, which could be challenging to remove. While our test pin didn’t encounter this issue, removing sticker residue typically proves straightforward with the application of vegetable oil or a specialized adhesive remover like GooGone. Additionally, the reassuring inclusion of a lifetime warranty ensures peace of mind for any potential issues that may arise with the rolling pin.
In conclusion, after extensive testing and evaluation of several top rolling pins, it’s evident that the J.K. Adams Maple Wood Medium Gourmet Rolling Pin stands out as a reliable and versatile option for all baking needs. Its sturdy and durable construction, coupled with the smooth rolling action and comfortable grip, makes it an essential tool in any kitchen. While occasional flour dusting may be necessary for stickier doughs, the overall performance and quality of this rolling pin make it a worthwhile investment for both professional chefs and baking enthusiasts alike. With its user-friendly design and seamless maintenance, the J.K. Adams Maple Wood Medium Gourmet Rolling Pin is sure to enhance your baking experience and help you achieve precise and consistent results with every use.
FAQs: Best Rolling Pins of 2024
Q1: What features distinguish the best rolling pins in 2024?
Answer: The best rolling pins of 2024 are characterized by durable materials, ergonomic designs, and innovative features such as adjustable thickness settings and non-stick surfaces.
Q2: Are there specific materials that stand out in the top rolling pins of 2024?
Answer: The top rolling pins often feature materials like solid hardwood, stainless steel, or silicone. These materials contribute to durability, smooth rolling, and ease of cleaning.
Q3: Can I find rolling pins with adjustable thickness settings?
Answer: Yes, many of the best rolling pins in 2024 come with adjustable thickness settings, allowing you to achieve precise thickness for various baking needs.
Q4: Are there rolling pins suitable for professional bakers or commercial kitchens?
Answer: Absolutely, some rolling pins are designed with professional bakers in mind, featuring larger lengths, heavy-duty construction, and advanced features to meet the demands of commercial kitchens.
Q5: How do I choose the right rolling pin for my specific baking need?
Answer: Consider factors such as the type of material, length, weight, and additional features like handles or guides. These considerations will help you choose a rolling pin that suits your preferred baking style.
Q6: Can the best rolling pins of 2024 be used for both sweet and savory recipes?
Answer: Yes, the versatile rolling pins of 2024 are suitable for a wide range of recipes, including pastries, cookies, pies, and savory dishes. Look for easy-to-clean materials for seamless transitions between different recipes.
Q7: Do these rolling pins require special maintenance?
Answer: Maintenance depends on the material. Wooden rolling pins may benefit from occasional oiling, while stainless steel or silicone rolling pins are generally low-maintenance and easy to clean.
Q8: Can I find environmentally friendly options among the best rolling pins?
Answer: Yes, some of the best rolling pins of 2024 are crafted from sustainable or eco-friendly materials. Consider bamboo or other renewable resources if environmental impact is a priority.
Q9: Where can I purchase the best rolling pins of 2024?
Answer: You can find top-rated rolling pins at kitchenware stores, specialty baking shops, and online retailers. Check customer reviews and product specifications to ensure the rolling pin meets your specific requirements.
Q10: What advancements in rolling pin design can be expected in 2024?
Answer: Anticipate advancements such as smart rolling pins with built-in measurements and temperature-resistant features. Keep an eye on technological innovations that enhance the baking experience.
