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I was recently given a 'French Rolling Pin' as a gift. To me, it just looks like a fancy dowel-rod. What exactly is it, and what is it useful for?

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The tone of this question is unfortunate. Perhaps you could step down the undeserved animosity a bit. – Sobachatina Nov 29 '10 at 13:56
@Aaronut- Thanks – Sobachatina Nov 29 '10 at 15:36
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The SO---who does the baking in our house---acquired an antique pin in this style for a couple of bucks, and shortly thereafter gave away all out axle-n-handle rolling pins. Good tool. – dmckee Nov 29 '10 at 18:46

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The French rolling pin is a useful tool in the kitchen for bakers, especially those who like to concoct pastries, roll out sugar cookies, or make shaped breads and rolls. The standard pin is usually 2 inches (5.08 cm) in circumference, and can come in varying lengths; 18 inches (45.72 cm) tends to be the most popular length. What makes it different from other rolling pins is that it has no handles, and is tapered to a smaller circumference at each end. It’s essentially a round, usually wooden, stick of a certain thickness.

From here: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-french-rolling-pin.htm

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A French rolling pin is a real thing. It is also a very convenient thing. I find that I have much better control over my rolling using one rather than the foolish little pins with the handles that get filthy and hurt my knuckles.

As for the 'French' part of the name. I don't know, having never lived in France, whether they actually refer to that style of rolling pin as French. However, I find it extremely unlikely. Probably some English speaker coined the phrase to differentiate that style of pin as one commonly used in France. Hopefully there is a French speaker who can provide more insight. (If you didn't insult them with your question.)

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As far as I know (I'm French but no chef), they are just called rolling pins with or without handles (rouleau à pâtisserie avec ou sans poignée). At least it's not like French letters or taking French leave… – Gilles Jan 12 '11 at 0:34
Exactly. In France they use both types, each has there own job, and personal preference takes place as well. Both are useful tools in the kitchen. The plain wooden pin is obviously cheaper to make, and more common on a global basis – TFD Oct 14 '11 at 21:37

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