Pancakes, those delectable round treats, are a timeless favourite with young and old alike. But what actually makes the perfect pancake? How do you achieve that delicious balance between lightness, flavour and texture? In this article, we give some tips for baking the tastiest pancakes and share some original recipes to tantalise your taste buds.
Tips to bake the perfect pancakes
- Use the right batter. The batter is at the heart of any good pancake. Make sure you have a well-balanced batter, with the right ratio of flour, eggs, milk and a pinch of salt. Also experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat or buckwheat, for extra flavour and nutrients.
- Let the batter rest. Let the batter rest for at least 15 minutes before you start baking. This gives the flour a chance to fully hydrate and makes for fluffy pancakes.
- Use a good pan. Invest in a quality pan with a non-stick coating for best results. A good quality pan distributes heat evenly and prevents the pancakes from sticking.
- Control the temperature. Fry the pancakes on medium-high heat and let the pan heat up well before you start frying. Too high temperatures can lead to burnt edges, while too low temperatures result in sticky, limp pancakes.
- Be patient. Let the pancake cook gently until bubbles appear at the top and the edges begin to loosen slightly before flipping it. This will ensure even cooking and a golden brown colour.
Original pancake ideas
- Savoury pancakes with spinach and feta: Add finely chopped spinach and crumbled feta to the batter for a savoury twist. Serve with a blob of Greek yoghurt and a pinch of black pepper.
- Apple–Cinnamon Pancakes : Mix pieces of apple and a pinch of cinnamon through the batter for an autumnal treat. Serve with a generous splash of maple syrup and a pinch of ground nutmeg.
- Banoffee pancakes: Cover warm pancakes with banana slices, a generous spoonful of dulce de leche and a dollop of whipped cream. Finally, sprinkle some crumbled digestive biscuits on top for an extra crunch.
- Spicy Mexican pancakes: Add chopped jalapeño peppers, grated cheddar cheese and a pinch of cumin to the batter for a spicy twist. Serve with guacamole, sour cream and fresh coriander.
- Red Velvet pancakes: Mix cocoa powder and a dash of red food colouring into the batter for a festive treat. Serve with cream cheese icing and a handful of fresh raspberries.
Conclusion
With the right tips and a dose of creativity, you can bake the perfect pancakes at home. Experiment with different ingredients and flavour combinations to take your pancakes to the next level. Whether you opt for a classic version with syrup or a bold creation with savoury toppings, such as cinnamon, baking pancakes is always a treat for the taste buds. So get out that pan and unleash your culinary creativity!