Indulge in the delicate and airy perfection of Japanese Soufflé Pancakes! These fluffy, cloud-like pancakes are a showstopper for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Made by folding whipped egg whites into a silky batter, they rise tall and golden, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
INGREDIENTS
- Eggs: 2 large, separated for yolks and whites
- Milk: 2 tbsp, to create a smooth batter
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup, sifted for lightness
- Baking Powder: 1/2 tsp, for a gentle rise
- Cream of Tartar: 1/4 tsp, optional, to stabilize the egg whites
- Granulated Sugar: 3 tbsp, added to egg whites for sweetness
- Vanilla Extract: 1/2 tsp, optional, for flavor
- Butter or Oil: For greasing the pan and molds
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2:
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, mixing gently until the batter is just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Step 4:
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture in three parts, ensuring the batter stays airy and light.
- Step 5:
- Grease a non-stick pan and place it over low heat. Position greased ring molds in the pan for tall, round pancakes.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each 2/3 full. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown.
- Step 7:
- Flip the pancakes gently within the molds and cook for another 3-4 minutes, covered, until cooked through.
- Step 8:
- Remove the pancakes from the molds and serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh berries, or syrup.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the pancakes immediately for the fluffiest texture.
- If making in advance, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure the pan stays on low heat to prevent the pancakes from browning too quickly before cooking through.
- If you don’t have ring molds, you can carefully spoon the batter into tall mounds and shape them gently.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Hiro suggests adding a teaspoon of matcha powder to the batter for a unique Japanese twist.
- Chef Marie recommends serving these pancakes with a drizzle of honey butter for an extra indulgent treat.