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How to Make the Best Pancakes This Pancake Day

Pancake Day, or Shrove Tuesday, is the perfect excuse to indulge in a plate (or two) of delicious pancakes. 

Whether you love the classic lemon and sugar combination or prefer something a little more adventurous, there’s a pancake recipe for everyone. 

However, if you want to up your pancake game this year, we’ve got you covered with top tips, fail-proof recipes, and creative topping ideas.

Perfecting Your Pancake Batter

The key to great pancakes starts with the batter. Whether you’re making traditional crêpes, fluffy American-style pancakes, or a vegan or gluten-free version, a good batter ensures the perfect texture. 

To start, always sift your flour to prevent lumps and create a smoother consistency. Once the ingredients are mixed, allow the batter to rest for around 15–30 minutes to let the flour absorb the liquid, which results in a better texture. 

However, be careful not to overmix, as doing so can develop gluten in the flour, leading to tough pancakes instead of light and fluffy ones. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and won’t affect the final product.

Equally important is using the right pan. A non-stick frying pan or griddle works best to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. 

Heat control is crucial – medium heat allows pancakes to cook through without burning on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. If you’re unsure, making a test pancake first is always a good idea.

Delicious Pancake Recipes

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to pancakes, so here are some tasty recipes for different preferences. 

If you love classic British pancakes, also known as crêpes, combine plain flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt to create a thin batter. Cook each pancake for about a minute on each side until golden brown. These are perfect for those who love a light and delicate texture.

For those who prefer thicker and softer pancakes, American-style pancakes are an excellent choice. 

Using self-raising flour, baking powder, sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter, the batter produces a fluffy texture. The key to perfect American pancakes is waiting for bubbles to form on the surface before flipping.

If you follow a plant-based diet, vegan pancakes can be just as delicious. 

Replacing eggs and dairy with plant-based milk and vegetable oil still results in a smooth, fluffy texture. Similarly, gluten-free pancakes can be made using gluten-free flour and baking powder while maintaining a satisfying consistency and taste.

Topping Ideas – Classic & Creative

Now that you’ve mastered your pancakes, it’s time to make them even better with delicious toppings. Whether you prefer simple flavours or love experimenting, there’s a perfect topping for you.

Classic toppings like lemon and sugar remain a firm favourite, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Another popular choice is maple syrup and butter, which creates a rich and indulgent flavour. 

If you prefer a sweeter option, jam and cream are a delightful combination, particularly for crêpes.

For a fresh and fruity twist, try mixed berries drizzled with honey for a naturally sweet option. Banana and peanut butter provide a great energy-boosting alternative, while stewed apples with cinnamon offer a warming, autumn-inspired touch.

If indulgence is what you’re after, Nutella and strawberries create the ultimate sweet treat. Salted caramel with crushed nuts offers a delightful sweet and salty balance, while crushed cookies with whipped cream make for a fun and decadent option.

Pancakes don’t always have to be sweet. Savoury options like smoked salmon with cream cheese make for a sophisticated brunch dish. 

For a vegetarian alternative, cheese, spinach, and mushrooms are a tasty combination. And for those who love the mix of sweet and savoury, crispy bacon with maple syrup is always a winner.

Tips for Flipping Like a Pro

Flipping pancakes can feel intimidating, but with a few techniques, it becomes much easier. 

Using the right-sized spatula makes flipping smoother, and waiting for bubbles to form on the surface of the pancake ensures it’s cooked enough to turn. If you’re unsure, give the pan a gentle shake – if the pancake moves freely, it’s ready to flip.

For those feeling adventurous, the classic pancake toss is worth a try. Simply loosen the pancake from the pan, tilt it slightly, and flick your wrist upwards to send it into the air before catching it back in the pan. It takes a little practice but adds a fun challenge to Pancake Day!

Final Thoughts

Pancake Day is all about having fun in the kitchen and enjoying some delicious creations. Whether you prefer traditional toppings or love experimenting with new flavours, there’s a pancake recipe for everyone. 

So, grab your frying pan, mix up some batter, and get flipping this Pancake Day – happy eating!