How to Cook with a Seasoned Cast Iron Xolo Griddle
By Lodgecastiron | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
Learn to cook with a seasoned cast iron Xolo griddle for Día de Muertos. Get tips on heat, seasoning, and cleaning this sugar skull griddle.
Quick answer
Cook with your seasoned cast iron Xolo griddle by preheating slowly over medium heat, using a thin layer of oil, and cleaning with mild soap and a soft sponge to preserve the seasoning and sugar skull design.
Why the Xolo griddle needs gentle heat
The Xolo sugar skull griddle is seasoned cast iron, which means it already has a protective layer of oil baked in. Unlike bare cast iron, it doesn't need initial seasoning, but it still benefits from gradual heating to prevent warping or cracking. The sugar skull design is embossed, so food can stick in the crevices if the pan isn't preheated evenly.
Trade-off: design vs. ease of cleaning
The embossed Xolo dog and sugar skull pattern adds character but also creates small grooves where bits of food can hide. You'll need to scrub gently with a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the seasoning. Avoid metal utensils and steel wool.
Diagnosis: common cooking problems with the Xolo griddle
- Symptom: Food sticks to the embossed sugar skull design.
- Likely cause: The pan wasn't preheated enough or the oil layer was too thick. The grooves trap moisture and food particles if the surface isn't hot enough to create a non-stick effect.
- Corrective action: Preheat the griddle over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Add a thin layer of oil (about 1 teaspoon) and wipe off the excess with a paper towel. Cook only after the oil shimmers. For the first few uses, cook fatty foods like bacon or tortillas to build seasoning in the grooves. If food still sticks after this, the seasoning may be too thin. Consider cooking a batch of corn tortillas or flatbreads to reinforce it.
- Stop or choose another option: If you frequently cook acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus, vinegar), the seasoning will degrade faster. Choose a smooth-surfaced cast iron pan instead of the Xolo griddle for those dishes. For most other uses, the Xolo griddle works well once you master the preheat and oil technique.
Product facts
- 10.5 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Xolo Sugar Skull Griddle with Deluxe Handle Holder: According to Day of the Dead traditions, the Xolo dog plays an important role guiding souls through the mitclán, or underworld, after death. Artist Lourdes Villagómez celebrates these special companions through a 10.5 inch griddle or comal that’s specially designed with a Xolo dog sugar skull. This griddle doubles as a cultural centerpiece for Día de Muertos, making it both a cooking tool and a conversation starter.
10.5 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Xolo Sugar Skull Griddle with Deluxe Handle Holder
