Fluffy Japanese Souffle Pancakes

Featured in Delicious Morning Favorites.

These Japanese-style pancakes use whipped egg whites to create a tall, fluffy texture. Requires patience and precise technique but results in uniquely light pancakes.
Clare Greco
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:05:17 GMT
A close-up of two fluffy Japanese pancakes stacked on a decorative plate, lightly dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a slice of lime. Pin it
A close-up of two fluffy Japanese pancakes stacked on a decorative plate, lightly dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a slice of lime. | recipesbyclare.com

These Japanese Souffle Pancakes took me months to perfect but now they're our weekend luxury. The way they rise like clouds and melt in your mouth is pure magic.

Why These Stand Out

It's all about those whipped egg whites. They transform ordinary pancakes into these towering pillows of joy.

Grab These Ingredients

  • Room Temp Eggs: Must be fresh.
  • Sifted Flour: Twice for extra smoothness.
  • Whole Milk: For richness.
  • Real Vanilla: No imitations.
  • Good Sugar: Fine granulated.

Let's Make Magic

Separate those eggs with care. The whites need to be spotless no yolk allowed.

Two fluffy, golden-brown Japanese soufflé pancakes stacked on a decorative plate. Pin it
Two fluffy, golden-brown Japanese soufflé pancakes stacked on a decorative plate. | recipesbyclare.com

The Secret

Low and slow that's the key. Let them cook gently under that lid the steam helps them rise.

Flip With Care

Gentle now like turning a cloud. Wait for those bubbles before you flip.

Make Them Pretty

Fresh berries whipped cream maybe a dusting of sugar. Eat them while they're hot.

First Timer Tips

Don't rush those egg whites. Stiff peaks mean stiff peaks not almost there.

Fluffy, golden pancakes stacked on a black plate, with powdered sugar sprinkled on top and one pancake partially eaten. Pin it
Fluffy, golden pancakes stacked on a black plate, with powdered sugar sprinkled on top and one pancake partially eaten. | recipesbyclare.com

Mix It Up

Try adding matcha powder or cocoa. Even a little citrus zest works great.

Keep It Simple

You don't need fancy equipment. A good pan with a lid that's all.

Fresh Is Best

These don't save well enjoy them right away. The magic's in that first bite.

Perfect Pairing

Hot matcha or coffee on the side. Maybe some crispy bacon too.

A close-up of fluffy pancakes drizzled with syrup, showcasing a gooey center filled with melted egg yolk. Pin it
A close-up of fluffy pancakes drizzled with syrup, showcasing a gooey center filled with melted egg yolk. | recipesbyclare.com

Common Mistakes

Rushing things that's the biggest error. Give them time to rise and set.

Special Moments

Perfect for birthdays anniversaries any celebration. They make everything feel fancy.

Tokyo Dreams

Just like the ones in Japanese cafes. A little taste of Tokyo at home.

Sweet Endings

Layer them with cream and berries. Makes an amazing dessert too.

Extra Special

Rose water vanilla bean paste even some lavender. Little touches make them unique.

A stack of fluffy pancakes topped with syrup, with a bite taken out of the top pancake, sitting on a decorative plate. Pin it
A stack of fluffy pancakes topped with syrup, with a bite taken out of the top pancake, sitting on a decorative plate. | recipesbyclare.com

Lighter Option

Try almond flour honey instead of sugar. Still fluffy still amazing.

Family Time

Get the kids involved in mixing. Watch their faces when they rise.

Worth Every Minute

Takes time yes but once you taste them you'll understand why.

Time It Right

Get your mise en place ready first. Makes the whole process smoother.

Savory Switch

Skip the sugar add cheese herbs. Makes an amazing brunch option.

Top It Off

Fresh fruit maple syrup lemon curd. Whatever makes you happy.

A stack of three fluffy pancakes, with one partially cut, drizzled with syrup on a blue plate. Pin it
A stack of three fluffy pancakes, with one partially cut, drizzled with syrup on a blue plate. | recipesbyclare.com

Global Love

Every country has their pancakes. These are Japan's gift to breakfast.

Morning Joy

Start your day with something special. These make any morning better.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why do my pancakes deflate?
Most common cause is overmixing the egg whites or cooking at too high temperature. Keep heat low and fold whites gently to maintain height.
→ Why add water while cooking?
The water creates steam under the lid, helping cook the tops of the tall pancakes evenly before flipping.
→ Can I make these without cake flour?
All-purpose flour works but cake flour gives a more tender texture. Mix 1 cup AP flour with 2 tbsp cornstarch as substitute.
→ What Do Egg Whites in Souffle Pancakes Do?
Egg whites are whipped into stiff peaks and folded into the batter to create the signature fluffy and airy texture of Japanese Souffle Pancakes. The whipped egg whites act as a natural leavening agent, incorporating air into the batter and allowing the pancakes to rise tall and light during cooking.
→ Why cook on low heat?
Low heat ensures pancakes cook through without burning, allowing time to rise properly and maintain their height.

Japanese Souffle Pancakes

Light and airy Japanese pancakes with a souffle-like texture. Perfect for breakfast or dessert with your favorite toppings.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes

Category: Morning Favorite

Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: Japanese

Yield: 10 Servings (10 pancakes)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 4 eggs, separated.
02 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
03 1/2 cup cake flour.
04 1/2 tsp baking powder.
05 1 pinch salt.
06 3 tbsp whole milk.
07 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
08 4 tbsp water for cooking.
09 Butter for cooking.

Instructions

Step 01

Whisk egg yolks, milk, and vanilla together.

Step 02

Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 03

Beat egg whites until frothy, add sugar, continue to stiff peaks.

Step 04

Fold 1/3 whites into yolk mixture, then fold in remaining whites gently.

Step 05

Scoop batter in mounds, add water, cover and cook 2 minutes. Add more batter, cook 5-6 minutes more.

Step 06

Flip when golden, add water, cover and cook 4 minutes until done.

Notes

  1. Keep heat low for even cooking.
  2. Steam helps cook evenly.
  3. Serve immediately.

Tools You'll Need

  • 12-inch skillet with lid.
  • Electric mixer.
  • Cookie scoop (optional).

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (milk, butter).
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat (flour).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 85
  • Total Fat: 3 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Protein: 4 g