Griddle gift ideas for the holidays

The best griddle gift depends on what the person already owns. Someone with a new griddle needs the basics, like a thermometer and a good scraper. Someone who’s been cooking on one for years may enjoy a burger press, a basting cover or a new cookbook. Buy a griddle itself only if you know where it will go.

These are gift ideas we think are solid, sorted by who you’re shopping for. Prices and delivery dates move around during the holidays, so check the listing before you order.

Find out what they have first

A quick look at their setup will tell you more than any gift list. If you can, find out:

• Which griddle they own, and how big it is. Covers and some accessories are sized or made for particular griddles.
• Which tools they already use. A second set of spatulas won’t be exciting if the first set is still in good shape.
• What they like to cook. A burger press suits someone who makes smash burgers every weekend, and a cookbook suits someone who’s run out of ideas.

For someone new to griddling

A small tool kit, a food thermometer and something to season the surface will cover most of their first cooks. These are the gifts they’re most likely to use right away, and our griddle tool guide explains why each one matters.

For someone who already has the basics

This is where a gift can be a little more fun. A basting cover, a burger press, an infrared thermometer or a cookbook are all things a griddle cook can happily live without, which is why they may not have bought one yet.

Small gifts and stocking stuffers

Heat-resistant gloves and squeeze bottles are inexpensive, useful and easy to add to a bigger gift. Neither depends on which griddle they own.

For someone who doesn’t have a griddle yet

Giving a griddle is a bigger decision, because it has to fit where they live. The two manuals we checked ask for 36 to 50 inches of clearance from things that can burn, like walls and railings, and a lease or homeowners association may have its own rules. Ask first if you can, even if it spoils the surprise a little.

There are two smaller ways in. A griddle plate works for someone who already owns a grill, and a tabletop griddle is an option if they have a safe outdoor spot for one. For a full-size griddle, start with our buying guide.

What we’d skip

• Large accessory bundles, unless you know they’re missing most of what’s inside. Our tool guide explains why a few good pieces are enough to start.
• Anything sized for one griddle, such as a cover, unless you’ve checked the exact model.
• A surprise full-size griddle, unless you’ve measured the space or the person has told you where it would go.