The Secret to Perfect Grill Marks With The Best Cooking Torch

Updated 21 Jun 2022

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We compare the most popular brands and models, and we boil them down to the top five to give you the most in-depth and dependable buying recommendation - so you can make the best buying decision possible.

BEST OF THE BEST

How We Tested

These products are recommended based on a thorough research process that aims to cut through the clutter and uncover the best products in this category. We spend hours looking into the elements that matter with the assistance of experts to provide you with these options.

Models Considered

180

Consumers Consulted

Hours Researched

Updated 21 Jun 2022

Written by

Revuu Buddy

BonJour Chef's Tools Professional Culinary Torch

BOTTOMLINE
Best for Experts
A favorite of our culinary experts; is a workhorse cooking torch that may be used to finish traditional dishes and fits into any professional kitchen.

PROS
Stainless steel construction for maximum durability. Increased heat output with a longer nozzle. The flame's temperature can be modified. An internal fuel tank with a level window that may be easily refilled is big enough for large-scale cooking.

CONS
It is the most costly of the group, and its design is more intricate. It must be refueled on a regular basis.

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Fox Run Creme Brûlée Chef Torch

BOTTOMLINE
Excellent Deal
For our culinary experts, this cooking torch is a favorite because of its simple-to-grip handle, large capacity, and excellent price point.

PROS
This has an elegant design, made of sturdy ABS plastic and steel nozzle. It features its own tank that can hold up to 64 mL of fuel. The push-button ignition is a simple one. Flame can be adjusted. Firm, accurate operation is aided by the textured grip.

CONS
It will run out of fuel if you don't use it for a while. It must be refilled by hand. The gas capacity isn't particularly large.

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TENGYES Kitchen Butane Blow Torch Lighter

BOTTOMLINE
Expert Recommended
This cooking torch's clever design, which allows it to be attached to any common can of Butane, and its strong, robust flame are two features that we appreciate.

PROS
The flame capabilities and sizes are simple to adjust. It can reach temperatures of up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. A single switch is in charge of everything. A single 8-ounce can of butane burns for up to 2 hours when combined with 1.5 grams or less of liquid per hour. It fits any standard fuel source and lasts a total of up to 2 hours when fully combined.

CONS
Does not contain Butane. It could take many attempts to ignite the lighter.

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Spicy Dew Blow Torch

BOTTOMLINE
Most Comprehensive
This cooking torch is a lightweight, portable model with simple flame adjustments for just as much heat as you need.

PROS
It includes a child lock. The flame knob is adjustable. It's high-quality at a low price that can fit into any budget. Simple to use and fill. Lightweight and pleasant to grip

CONS
Because of user error, some of these torches have had butane leak out.

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Kollea Kitchen Mini Blow Torch

BOTTOMLINE
Simple Yet Solid
The smallest option, which comes with two tools, is a favorite for crème brulée aficionados.

PROS
Boils to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. It contains 10 grams—about two teaspoons—of butane gas and is simple to fill. The torch can be used for baking; sous vide cooking, searing meat, and even soldering jewelry.

CONS
The majority of the material in this piece is plastic rather than metal.

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Buying Guide for Best Cooking Torches

The culinary torch is perhaps the most versatile cooking tool, allowing you to imagine yourself on Top Chef while also bringing together the complexities of kitchen chemistry with the enjoyment of creating delicious desserts for family and guests.

However, it's a tool that most chefs are unfamiliar with, so deciding on the right cooking torch may be a bit like solving a mystery.

How do you know which one is right for you?

What should you look for when buying a cooking torch from a variety of manufacturers?

But if you've never used – perhaps never even heard of – a cooking torch before, what can it do for you?

A cooking torch may also be utilized outside the kitchen. It can be used for soldering, woodworking, leather crafting, wax working, and jewelry repair.

COOKING TORCH 101

Take some encouragement if you're wondering how a torch is used in a kitchen. A cooking torch isn't the same as a flamethrower. Rather, a cooking torch is a hand-held device that generates a tiny, focused, and extremely hot flame using butane (a highly combustible gas).

The most well-known use of a cooking torch is the making of crème Brulee, but it's also useful for a variety of other culinary tasks. In reality, your culinary torch may be used in a variety of settings to sear, melt, caramelize, or toast ingredients without the need of cooking or heating the entire meal. You may accomplish any of the following with a cooking torch.

Without overcooking the rest of the meat, sear a wonderful crust onto your steak.
Prepare grilled cheese and/or melt cheese for nachos, sandwiches, or other applications where a hot topping is desired.
Cookies and cakes should be cooked with sugar that has been caramelized.
Toast breadcrumbs or make croutons out of bread pieces.
To roast a tomato, pepper, or squash, pre-roast the outer skin.
Brown meringue for baked Alaska, pies, or tarts
Make a s'more or other dessert by melting marshmallows.

EXPERT TIP

Avoid any black spots if you're caramelizing the sugar on top of a Creme Brulee. The ideal brulee ("burn") has a uniform golden brown color, which is never totally blackened. From no color to black in a second? Keep an eye on it.

Revuu Buddy Cooking and Baking Expert

COOKING TORCH TYPES

While the function is similar, two sorts of cooking torches exist ones with a built-in fuel tank and those that fit over a disposable one. Both have advantages and disadvantages, although in general, screw-on torch-head devices are more powerful and run longer.

Torch-head cooking torches

The head of a torch-head cooking torch screws directly onto a butane tank rather than having a handle that contains a little, refillable fuel tank.

Pros:

There's no need to refill the propane tank; simply replace it when empty.
A larger gas tank equals a longer duration of usage without having to refill the tank.
It was less expensive. It's also more convenient to use without having to worry about refilling with propane, which has a propensity to spray and drip.

Cons:

There is no actual handle to grip; instead, you grasp the fuel tank, which is big.
Larger tools may be frightening or difficult to handle.
Replacement canisters may be required.

EXPERT TIP

Torches might be frightening to new users, so take your time and slowly light and control the flame. Start by sweeping a few inches away from your target to determine how big your flame should be and the optimum distance at which to utilize it.

Revuu Buddy Cooking and Baking Expert

Fuel tanks in cooking torches

All-in-one cookers have built-in fuel tanks in their cooking torches. The head attaches directly to the base, which encloses the inner fuel tank.

Pros:

There are no extra butane canisters to buy or worry if the container fits.
Larger and less daunting than torch-head versions, they're smaller and less intimidating.

Cons:

You'll need Butane to fill the torch if you don't already have any.
When filling the tank, there is a danger of spillage or overflow.
During the filling procedure, some Fuel may evaporate (a small amount).
It's necessary to refuel your fire pit regularly.

EXPERT TIP

An easily-adjustable continual flame is essential. Consider how you'll use a torch (for fast high heat or toasting over time) and select the one with the most appropriate flame control.

Revuu Buddy Cooking and Baking Expert

COOKING TORCH PRICES

You don't need to spend a fortune to obtain a decent cooking torch.

Inexpensive

For as low as $15 to $20, you can get a dependable torch with a small fuel tank. If all you want is for the torch to do is melt crème brulee or similar desserts on occasion, this will work fine.

EXPERT TIP

Turn the torch's flame OFF as soon after setting it down as possible to avoid burning yourself or other things nearby. Even if the flame is switched off, some metal surfaces on torches can still become heated, so be cautious.

Revuu Buddy Cooking and Baking Expert

Mid-range

For most purchasers, the $20 to $30 price range is ideal. For this amount, you can obtain a cooking torch with a sufficient fuel tank and most of the desirable characteristics.

High-end

For around $30, you can get a high-quality cooking torch with a large fuel tank that will last for many uses. Consider products in this price range if you use your cooking torch frequently or simply want the finest.

TIPS FOR SELECTING THE PERFECT COOKING TORCH

Quality culinary torches come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. Certain characteristics set the finest culinary torches apart from the rest. Here are some to seek:

Almost every cooking torch has an anti-flare neck, which means the neck is contoured so you can use the torch without the flame flaring back on your fingers. Don't even think about purchasing cookware without it.
The optimum cooking temperature for a gas or propane burner is 2,000°F. Although most burners reach much higher temperatures, they should heat up nearly immediately after turning on.
It's crucial to have a gas flow adjuster. This feature allows you to alter the size of the flame to your preferences.
Opt for a cooking torch with a fuel gauge if you don't want to run out of gas during a culinary session.
A safety lock prevents your cook's torch from firing up if a curious child takes it.
When you're all done, your hand may become weary during a lengthy torching session, so the cooking torch you choose should be light and comfortable to grip. It should also include a stand so you can set it down quickly. In addition, the torch should have a lock switch that allows you to turn off the flame while working.
After an hour of usage, some kitchen torches need to be refueled. If you are using the torch for lengthy cooking sessions, look for one with a long burn time.
The ideal cooking torches are simple to use. A steep learning curve, and no special skills should be required to operate one.
Check with your neighborhood store for any butane that may be used in your torch. If you're unable to find it, check online at sites like Amazon or eBay. However, because some states prohibit the shipment of flammable goods like Butane, double-check that you can purchase gasoline without difficulty before purchasing your torch.

Once you've mastered your kitchen torch, you'll be itching to discover more recipes that utilize it.

FAQ

Is it necessary to keep my finger on the trigger the entire time I'm utilizing a cooking torch?

A. It is dependent on the torch. Yes, you'll need to press your finger on the trigger with some low-cost versions. Others have a lock that keeps the flame burning even if you set the torch down. If you want to use the torch for extended periods or frequently, a torch with an "on" switch is preferable.

Is it necessary to purchase special fuel to fill my cooking torch?

A. Most cooking torches use Butane as fuel, although some run on propane. Normally, you don't need any particular butane to refill your torch, although a few manufacturers do require their own proprietary refill canisters. Choose a cooking torch based on the fuel canisters it requires.

Is it safe to use a cooking torch?

A. Although any device that emits flames might be hazardous, a cooking torch may be used with minimal risk if you follow basic safety measures and remain vigilant. You should never use the torch near flammable materials, and you should never leave it switched on while unattended. Even if the cooking torch is turned off, don't allow children to handle it.

Is it necessary to light a cooking torch with a match or an outside flame?

A. All culinary torches feature piezoelectric ignition, which is the same type of automated lighter used in gas grills and stoves. You generally just pull the ignition switch to start your cooking torch.

BonJour Chef's Tools Professional Culinary Torch

BOTTOMLINE
Best for Experts
A favorite of our culinary experts; is a workhorse cooking torch that may be used to finish traditional dishes and fits into any professional kitchen.

Shop Now