I tested the Rosle kitchen torch on creme brulee, meringue, and cheese. Read my honest review of its flame control, safety, and performance.
I bought a kitchen torch for one reason only. I wanted restaurant style creme brulee at home.
My first few desserts came out uneven. Some spots burned black while others stayed pale and soft.
A friend who cooks professionally told me to stop blaming my technique. She said the torch matters more than the recipe.
That sent me down a rabbit hole. I compared several models and landed on the Rosle kitchen torch, Rösle’s 12844 model.
Rösle is a German brand known for sturdy cooking tools. I wanted to see if the premium build was worth it.
What I Like
The flame control is precise. A dial adjusts the flame from gentle to powerful. I can brown meringue tips without scorching them.
The torch runs on butane or propane. I fill it with standard lighter gas, which is easy to find.
Safety feels well thought out. A child resistant switch must be flipped before the flame starts. There is also a lock that keeps the flame on during longer jobs.
The stainless steel body feels solid. It does not feel like a cheap plastic toy. It balances nicely, which matters when you torch close to delicate food.
Ignition fires on the first click every time I use the Rosle kitchen torch. No shaking, no clicking twice, no frustration.
Versatility surprised me too. Beyond creme brulee, I have roasted peppers, melted cheese on gratins, and removed tomato skins with it.
What Could Be Better
It arrives empty. Fuel is not included in the box. Plan a separate trip or order butane alongside it.
The child resistant switch adds a small learning curve. It took me a few tries before it felt natural. Now I appreciate the safety, but the first session felt awkward.
The torch is compact. That is great for control, but my hand feels crowded when I work on a large tray of desserts.
There is no fuel level window on the body. I cannot see how much gas remains. I have learned to top it up before dinner parties just in case.
Rösle 12844 Kitchen Torch vs BonJour Professional Culinary Torch
I compared the Rösle torch against the BonJour Professional Culinary Torch, another popular option in the same category.
| Feature | Rösle 12844 | BonJour Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Rösle, German | BonJour, Chef’s Tools |
| Body material | Stainless steel | Aluminum metal body |
| Fuel type | Butane or propane | Butane only |
| Adjustable flame dial | Yes | Yes |
| Child safety switch | Yes | Safety lock |
| Fuel level window | No | Yes |
| Removable stand | No | Yes, included |
| Recipe pamphlet included | No | Yes, full color |
| Continuous flame lock | Yes | Yes |
| Max temperature | Up to 2372 degrees F | Adjustable, no published max |
The BonJour is the friendlier starter kit. It includes a stand, a recipe pamphlet, and a fuel window so you can see gas levels.
The Rösle wins on build quality and fuel flexibility. Stainless steel simply feels more durable than aluminum.
My Personal Experience
I found that the Rosle kitchen torch changed my creme brulee game within two attempts. The first batch was still uneven because I held it too close.
On the second try, I kept the flame moving in slow circles. The sugar turned into an even golden glass. The custard underneath stayed cold and silky.
I also tested it on lemon meringue pie. The adjustable dial let me kiss the meringue tips with color while leaving the valleys pale. Guests assumed a caterer made it.
One caution from my own kitchen: any kitchen torch demands respect. I keep a damp towel nearby and never leave the Rosle kitchen torch flame unattended. The safety switch on this model gives me real peace of mind with kids around.
If you are starting your tool collection from scratch, my kitchen essentials guide covers the basics. And before you buy anything new, read my guide to buying kitchen gadgets without wasting money.
FAQs
Does the Rösle kitchen torch come with butane?
No, it arrives empty. You fill it with commonly available butane or propane lighter gas.
Can the Rösle torch be used for more than creme brulee?
Yes. It works for meringues, gratins, roasting peppers, crisping meats, and removing tomato skins.
Is the Rösle kitchen torch safe to use around kids?
It has a child resistant safety switch and a flame lock. I still store it locked and out of reach.
How hot does the Rösle kitchen torch get?
The flame reaches up to 2372 degrees F. The adjustable dial lets you lower it for delicate work.
Choose the BonJour if you want a starter kit with a stand and recipes. Choose the Rösle for premium steel build and dual fuel flexibility.
Final Verdict
The Rösle kitchen torch is a quality tool that earns its place. It lights instantly, adjusts precisely, and feels built to last.
If restaurant style finishing touches matter to you, I recommend it. You can check the Rosle kitchen torch here.
