Just saying the word pancakes inspires a certain happiness. And there’s nothing quite like the pancake that has its own unique expression in countries all over the world. These are the recipes for a few that deserve to be on your brunch rotation this winter.
Pancakes aren’t just for brunch dates or lazy mornings-they’re a worldwide obsession. From Parisian crêpes to spicy Indian chila, each culture brings its own twist to this timeless dish. Let’s explore five iconic pancakes that prove the world runs on batter and creativity.
French Crêpes
Crêpes are the OG of fancy pancakes—thin, elegant, and all about versatility. Sweet crêpe with Nutella? Yes. Savory crêpe with ham and cheese? Double yes.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp melted butter
Directions
Blend all purpose flour, eggs, butter, and milk into a smooth batter. Add water and salt and combine well. Heat a pan, grease it lightly and pour a thin layer. Cook until one side is golden. Then flip on to other side and cook until golden. Load up with your fave toppings before serving.
Japanese Souffle Pancakes
These Instagram-famous Japanese pancakes are a fluffy dream. They’re a cloud-like treat that melts in your mouth. Perfect if you love a little drama on your plate.
Ingredients
2 egg yolks
2 tbsp milk
1/4 cup cake flour
2 egg whites
2 tbsp sugar
Directions
Whisk yolks, milk, and flour together into a batter. Beat egg whites with sugar to stiff peaks, then fold into the batter. Cook slowly in ring molds and let them puff up. Serve with whipped cream and syrup.
Russian Cheesy Syrniki
A breakfast staple in Russia, syrniki are creamy, slightly tangy pancakes made with farmer’s cheese. You can pair them with a dollop of jam or sour cream. And what you have on your plate is basically pancake perfection.
Ingredients
1 cup farmer’s cheese or ricotta
1 egg
3 tbsp flour (to coat)
2 tbsp sugar
A pinch of salt
Directions
Mix cheese, eggs, sugar, and salt to form a dough. Shape into small rounds, coat lightly in flour, and fry until golden. Serve with sour cream or jam.
Classic American Pancakes
Thick, fluffy, and perfect for a syrup bath, the American pancakes are comfort food royalty. Stack them high and drown them in syrup for the full effect.
Ingredients
2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
A pinch of salt
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 egg
2 tbsp melted butter
Directions
Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and butter together. Once mixed well, combine the dry and wet ingredients making a smooth batter. Grease a griddle slightly. Pour a thick layer of batter and cook until bubbly. Then flip and cook the other side. Once done, stack them on a plate. Add syrup, butter, and maybe a fruit topping if you’re feeling fancy.
Indian Savory Chila
Indian chila is a spicy, savory vibe that’s perfect any time of day. Made with gram flour and spiced with turmeric and cumin, it’s healthy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
2 cup gram flour (besan)
1 cup water
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt to taste
½ onion (chopped)
½ tomato (chopped)
Cilantro sprigs (roughly chopped)
Directions
Whisk gram flour and water together into a smooth batter. Add turmeric, cumin, onion, tomato, and cilantro to the batter and combine. Add salt in the end and mix well. Pour onto a hot greased pan, spread thin, and cook until golden on both sides. Serve with yogurt or chutney.
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FAQs
Q. What toppings can I add to French Crepes?
A. You can add chocolate sauce, fruits like strawberries, or make it savory by adding ham and cheese.
Q. What other spices can I add to the chila?
A. You can add powdered red chillies, carom seeds, or powdered garam masala to the chila.
Q. What cheese is used in a syrniki?
A. A syrniki is made of farmer’s cheese or ricotta.
