Lecreuset Emile Henry Vs. Pampered Chef Stoneware

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores the differences between Pampered Chef stoneware and Emile Henry bakeware, with participants sharing personal experiences and insights regarding their features, warranties, and usability.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions that Emile Henry (EH) is glazed on the inside, which they believe makes it less comparable to true stoneware.
  • Another participant shares their experience as a former store buyer for EH, noting that Pampered Chef stoneware is less expensive and comes with a three-year warranty, while EH offers a longer 101-year warranty.
  • One participant discusses the benefits of unglazed stoneware, stating that it preserves the stone properties that create a bakery oven effect and allows for seasoning, unlike fully glazed pieces.
  • Several users mention that LeCreuset can be used on the stovetop, while Pampered Chef stoneware is limited to oven use.
  • One participant points out that the differences between ceramics and stoneware may relate to the type of clay used and firing methods.
  • Another participant expresses the view that neither EH nor LeCreuset is true stoneware due to their enamel coating, which prevents seasoning and moisture absorption.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the comparison between Pampered Chef stoneware and Emile Henry, with some participants highlighting specific advantages of each, but no clear consensus emerges on which is superior.

Contextual Notes

Participants draw from personal experiences and knowledge of the products, discussing various aspects such as warranty, usability, and material properties without making definitive claims about product performance.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to Pampered Chef consultants and community members looking to understand the distinctions between different bakeware options.

M
myinnerchef
Gold Member
Messages
288
I received a call the other day from a former guest who was interested in buying some stoneware. She asked me to tell her why PC was better than Emile Henry, which is what she usually buys. Besides the obvious (price), my only answer was that EH is glazed on the inside so it isn't a true stoneware piece and isn't comparable (BTW, she ultimately bought the PC stoneware to try).

Has anyone else ever

A. heard of Emile Henry? or
B. fielded a question like this about EH?

Anything else I should know about stoneware to pass along in the future?

~Louise
*~*~*~*~*~*
My job's a party... what's yours like?
 
I'm not sure what the differences would be, but I used to buy (as a store buyer) and sell EH, and I can tell you that ours is definitely less expensive. Plus, I don't remember anything about an extended warranty period for EH (as compared to our 3 yr stoneware warranty).
They do have a lot of specialty baking stones - interesting shapes and sizes - that PC doesn't have. I don't really consider that a negative for PC though. Ours are made for actual cooking use, where alot of the EH is just for show. (At least that was my feeling when selling it.)
 
Any piece that is totally glazed is a very pretty piece of bakeware but by keeping the inside and bottom unglazed the stone properties that create the bakery oven (or brick oven) effect in your cooking are preserved. It also allows the piece to season and create a truely non-stick surface. Totally glazed pieces cannot season and therefore need to be oiled every time they are used for as long as they have them.

What kind of warranty do they have? Will they replace it if it chips or breaks while cooking? Our customers have 3 years.

...just a few differences to start.

(I have not seen EH stoneware so these are general answers.)
 
AND - to borrow a question from another thread - ours is made in the USA!:thumbup:
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
EH has a 101-year warranty, which pretty much blows ours out of the water so I didn't mention it.
 
LeCreuset can also be used on the Stovetop as well as in the oven. Vs. our Stoneware which is ONLY oven.
 
finley1991 said:
LeCreuset can also be used on the Stovetop as well as in the oven. Vs. our Stoneware which is ONLY oven.
Click to expand...

http://www.emilehenry.com/others/catalogue/ppat/index.php?id=1

According to this page from the online catalog - it's not supposed to be used with direct heat.....like a stovetop.
 
I think it depends on which line it's from. There's one with "flame" in the name that is stovetop and broiler safe.
 
chefann said:
I think it depends on which line it's from. There's one with "flame" in the name that is stovetop and broiler safe.
Click to expand...

Yep! Just read that.......The Flame line - it's a specialized line, and really can't be compared to our stoneware.......

My question - what would be the difference between ceramics and stoneware? Because they don't call theirs stoneware, they call it ceramic....?
 
I think it's partly the type of clay used and partly how it's fired. Like the difference between "plain" ceramic and porcelain.

My mom has "cookware" from Princess House that's glass ceramic, and is stovetop safe. (Don't get me started on that... I'm going to give her my Professional cookware when I finish my kitchen - I'm getting myself the Exec. from Sept. host specials.)
 
I think we're comparing apples to oranges. Neither EH or LC are true "stonware" in that both are enamel coated so there is no seasoning, no way for the moisture to be drawn away from the cooking surface (which is what we can offer with our unglazed interiors)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
You ladies are awesome!

If I 'convert' her, I'm pretty sure I'll have a customer for life!


~Louise
*~*~*~*~*~*
My job's a party... what's yours like?
 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main differences between Le Creuset Emile Henry and Pampered Chef Stoneware?

Le Creuset Emile Henry products are primarily made from high-fired clay, which provides excellent heat retention and even cooking. They are known for their vibrant colors and durability. Pampered Chef Stoneware, on the other hand, is made from a special clay that is designed to absorb moisture and distribute heat evenly, making it ideal for baking. While both are high-quality options, Le Creuset tends to be more versatile for stovetop and oven use, while Pampered Chef is often preferred for baking and roasting.

2. Can I use Le Creuset Emile Henry and Pampered Chef Stoneware in the microwave?

Yes, both Le Creuset Emile Henry and Pampered Chef Stoneware can be used in the microwave. However, it is essential to check the specific product guidelines, as some pieces may have limitations. Generally, both brands are designed to withstand microwave use, making them convenient for reheating and cooking.

3. How do the prices of Le Creuset Emile Henry and Pampered Chef Stoneware compare?

Le Creuset Emile Henry products are typically more expensive due to their premium materials and brand reputation. Pampered Chef Stoneware is generally more affordable, making it accessible for a wider range of budgets. However, both brands offer quality products that can last for years with proper care.

4. Which is better for baking: Le Creuset Emile Henry or Pampered Chef Stoneware?

While both brands excel in baking, Pampered Chef Stoneware is specifically designed for this purpose, with features that promote even baking and browning. Its ability to absorb moisture helps create a crispy crust, making it ideal for bread and pizza. Le Creuset Emile Henry is also great for baking but may be more versatile for other cooking methods, such as stovetop or oven use.

5. How do I care for Le Creuset Emile Henry and Pampered Chef Stoneware?

Le Creuset Emile Henry products are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to maintain their finish. Avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking. Pampered Chef Stoneware should be hand washed and seasoned occasionally to maintain its non-stick properties. Avoid using metal utensils to prevent scratching. Both brands require gentle care to ensure longevity.

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