Review: Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet (Copper Look) – Your New Kitchen Workhorse?

As a seasoned technician with over a decade of experience navigating the vast landscape of electric skillets, I’ve seen countless models, from the rudimentary to the cutting-edge. Today, we’re taking a closer look at a particularly stylish contender: the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet with its distinctive copper look. Does this appliance blend aesthetic appeal with practical performance, or is it merely a pretty face in your kitchen lineup? Let’s dive deep into what makes this skillet tick and if it truly earns its spot on your countertop.

Unveiling the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet (Copper Look)

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet immediately catches the eye with its modern design, often featuring a sleek gray exterior complemented by polished copper linings. This “copper look” isn’t just about aesthetics; it hints at the advanced non-stick copper ceramic coating within, a feature Crux highlights for both its performance and health benefits.

Design and Aesthetics

Crux, a brand founded in NYC in 2016, aims to infuse kitchenware with a personal touch. This philosophy is evident in the skillet’s appearance, which many users describe as elegant and stylish. The copper ceramic coating, beyond its visual appeal, is designed to be more durable and healthier for cooking, being completely PTFE/PFOA free. It’s a statement piece that can elevate the look of any kitchen, whether it’s on display or being actively used.

Key Specifications

This particular model, often identified as the Crux 14620, boasts generous dimensions, typically measuring 12×12 inches. What truly sets it apart is its “extra deep” design, offering 3 inches of depth. This translates to a substantial 6-quart cooking capacity, providing about 50% more space than many standard electric skillets. Key functional features include a removable temperature probe for precise heat control, allowing you to set temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and a clear glass lid that lets you monitor your culinary creations without losing heat.

The “Extra Deep” Advantage

The generous 6-quart capacity and extra depth are significant advantages. This skillet isn’t just for frying; it’s designed to handle a wide array of cooking tasks that might overwhelm a shallower pan. From simmering hearty stews and deep-frying crispy chicken to preparing large batches of stir-fries or even baking, its spacious interior makes it incredibly versatile. For families, gatherings, or those who simply enjoy cooking larger meals, this extra capacity can be a game-changer, effectively adding another “burner” to your kitchen.
Crux electric skillet displaying its extra deep 6-quart capacity for diverse cooking tasks.

Performance in the Kitchen: A Deep Dive

Beyond its good looks and impressive capacity, an electric skillet’s true test lies in its cooking performance. The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet offers a mixed, yet largely positive, experience, excelling in some areas while showing minor limitations in others.

Heating & Temperature Control

One of the standout features reported by users is the skillet’s fast heating capability and impressively even heat distribution. Compared to other medium-sized skillets, the Crux often performs well in maintaining consistent temperatures across its surface. However, some detailed reviews note that while the heat distribution is excellent, the temperature stabilization point can be a bit too low for certain delicate tasks. For instance, achieving perfectly fluffy pancakes or a flawlessly seared medium-rare steak might require a bit of practice or adjusting your expectations, as the heating cycle may not always suit these specific outcomes. For most everyday cooking, however, the adjustable precision control up to 400°F provides ample flexibility.

Non-Stick Coating & Durability

The non-stick copper ceramic coating is promoted as being 10 times more durable than standard non-stick surfaces and safe for use with metal utensils. It’s also completely free of PTFE and PFOA, addressing health concerns. Many users praise its effectiveness, noting excellent results with various foods and easy cleanup. However, it’s worth noting that a few users have reported issues like chipped coating on the pan rim or grainy specs on the base, and one review highlighted that while the non-stick is effective, it might still require careful handling to maintain its integrity over time. This suggests that while robust, reasonable care is still advisable to prolong the life of the coating.

Versatility in Cooking

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet truly shines in its versatility. Its deep design and ample capacity make it a multi-purpose appliance. It can seamlessly transition from frying eggs and boiling water to deep-frying crispy snacks. It handles simmering stews, making large batches of chili, or preparing stir-fries with ease. Its ability to function as an extra cooking zone is particularly beneficial for those with limited stove-top space or during holiday meal preparations.
Crux extra deep electric skillet cooking a vibrant stir-fry, showcasing its versatile functionality.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

To provide a comprehensive understanding, let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet.

The Highs

• Fast and Even Heating: The skillet heats up quickly and distributes heat remarkably evenly across the cooking surface, which is crucial for consistent results.
• Generous Capacity: Its extra-deep, 6-quart design offers significantly more cooking space than standard models, making it ideal for larger meals, families, or entertaining.
• Effective Non-Stick Coating: The copper ceramic non-stick surface is generally praised for its excellent food release and ease of cleaning, plus it’s PTFE/PFOA free.
• Stylish Design: With its modern gray exterior and copper accents, it’s an attractive addition to any kitchen.
• Versatile Functionality: Capable of handling a wide range of cooking methods, from frying and searing to simmering and deep-frying.
• Easy to Clean: Most parts, excluding the thermostat, are dishwasher safe, simplifying post-meal cleanup.

The Lows

• Temperature Stabilization: For very specific, delicate cooking tasks like achieving perfectly browned pancakes or a precise medium-rare steak, some users found the temperature stabilization point to be less than ideal.
• Potential Coating Issues: While generally durable, a few reports mention minor cosmetic imperfections like chipped coating or unevenness in specific units.
• Requires Power Outlet: Like all electric skillets, its portability is limited by the need for a power source.

Who is the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet For?

This electric skillet is an excellent choice for a variety of home cooks. Its extra-deep capacity makes it particularly well-suited for:

• Families: Easily prepare one-pot meals, large breakfasts, or dinner for several people.
• Entertainers: Ideal for cooking for guests, keeping food warm, or preparing party-sized portions.
• Those with Limited Stove Space: It acts as an invaluable extra cooking surface, especially when your stove burners are occupied.
• Deep Frying Enthusiasts: The 3-inch depth provides ample room for deep-frying without excessive oil splatter.
• Health-Conscious Cooks: The PTFE/PFOA-free copper ceramic non-stick coating offers a healthier cooking option.

If your cooking routine often involves generous portions, one-pot meals, or a need for an auxiliary cooking surface, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet could be an indispensable tool.

Care and Maintenance

Maintaining your Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet is straightforward, ensuring its longevity and continued performance.

Usage Tips

Before its first use, always review the manufacturer’s instructions. When cooking, adjust the removable temperature probe to the desired heat setting, leveraging the up-to-400°F range for various tasks. While the non-stick coating is metal utensil safe, using silicone or wooden utensils can further extend its life and prevent any potential scratching.

Cleaning and Storage

One of the celebrated benefits of this skillet is its ease of cleaning. After each use, allow the skillet to cool completely. The cooking pan, once the temperature probe is removed, is generally dishwasher safe (always double-check your specific model’s manual). For hand washing, warm soapy water and a soft sponge are usually sufficient to clean the non-stick surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could damage the coating. Proper storage, perhaps in its original box or a designated cupboard, will protect it from accidental damage.

Conclusion

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet (Copper Look) presents a compelling package for the modern kitchen. Its generous 6-quart capacity and eye-catching design make it stand out, offering immense versatility for a wide range of dishes, from large family meals to ambitious deep-frying projects. While some specific high-precision tasks might require a bit of adaptation due to its temperature stabilization, its overall fast heating, even distribution, and easy-to-clean non-stick surface make it a highly functional and attractive appliance. For those seeking an electric skillet that combines style with substantial cooking power, the Crux Extra Deep model is a strong contender worth considering. Will this extra-deep delight become the next MVP in your kitchen?

Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp

How deep is the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

The Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet features a 3-inch depth, providing a generous 6-quart cooking capacity. This extra depth allows for significantly more cooking space compared to standard electric skillets, making it ideal for larger portions and various cooking methods like deep frying.

Is the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet non-stick and healthy?

Yes, it features a copper ceramic non-stick coating that is PTFE/PFOA free, promoting healthier cooking by reducing the need for excessive oils. This coating is also designed to be more durable than standard non-stick surfaces and is often described as metal utensil safe.

Can I deep fry in the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

Absolutely. With its extra-deep design and 6-quart capacity, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet is well-suited for deep frying. The adjustable temperature control up to 400°F allows you to achieve the right heat for perfectly crispy results.

Is the lid of the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet transparent?

Yes, the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet comes with a clear glass lid. This feature allows you to easily monitor your food as it cooks without having to lift the lid, which helps to maintain consistent cooking temperatures and moisture levels.

How easy is it to clean the Crux Extra Deep Electric Skillet?

Cleaning is generally very easy. The non-stick copper ceramic surface allows food to release effortlessly. Once the removable temperature probe is detached, the skillet is often dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup. For hand washing, warm soapy water and a soft sponge are usually sufficient.