Everything you need to know about the Pie Iron
In this guide we cover everything you need to know about the Pie Iron cooking appliance including who invented it, when, how to use it and the best places to buy one.
What is a Pie Iron
A Pie Iron is one of the earliest forms of Toasted Sandwich Maker. It is made with two metal plates each with a long metal pole and handle attached.
The two metal plates are hinged together to trap a, normally cheese based, sandwich between them and then you place the pie iron onto a fire and the toasted sandwich is cooked inside after only a few minutes.
It is called a pie iron as it can also be used to create a hand pie. A small pastry pie with a sweet or savoury filling. Here is a great example of a savoury hand pie.
Recently it is more commonly associated with camping and camp fires but the pie iron is one of the original forms of toasted sandwich maker.
Who invented the Pie Iron
It is unclear who invented the pie iron but it is linked to one of the first forms of toasted sandwich maker called the Tostwich invented in the early twentieth century.
How to use it
You use the Pie Iron in just the same way as a toasted sandwich maker to have delicious crispy toasted sandwich’s.
You just use the heat of a fire to cook your toastie rather than electrically powered heating elements.
Really, the only thing that limits your toastie aspirations with a Pie Iron is your imagination.
For more on how to use a Pie Iron follow our guide to create the perfect toasted sandwich.
For filling ideas for your pie iron then take a look at these toastie ideas.
Where to buy a Pie Iron
One of the best places to buy a Pie Iron in the UK is Amazon but you can also find them at some major camping shops and Etsy.
However, if you are looking for a traditional cast iron Pie Iron then be sure to check out PieIron.com and also the BBQ Barn.
You can expect to pay anywhere between £10 and £150 for a good Pie Iron. The more expensive models being made of cast iron and guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Should you buy a Pie Iron
You should only buy a Pie Iron if you are a fan of camping and camp fire cooking, or interested in quirky food appliances.
If you simple want to make great toasted sandwich’s then I recommend you get a 3-in-1 Toasted Sandwich Maker.
More information
If you are interested in learning more about the Pie Iron then check out the following two interesting sources.
For more interesting and fun information on Toasties and the machines that make them take a look at my facts and fun page.
Affiliate Disclaimer
This guide to the Pie Iron contains affiliate links to Amazon UK. If you click on a link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This commission goes towards the running of Toastie Recipes and further recipe development. Thank you for your support.