American Pancakes

American Pancakes: The Delight of Fluffiness at Breakfast

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (approximately 8 pancakes)

Sometimes, mornings need a sprinkle of magic, and American pancakes are the perfect answer to that desire. These fluffy pancakes, which melt in your mouth, are ideal for starting the day with a smile. With a history that blends influences from ancient culinary traditions, pancakes are now a symbol of the American breakfast, but they can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you prepare them for a brunch with friends or for a quiet family breakfast, these pancakes are definitely a winning choice.

Ingredients:

- 3 large eggs
- 300 ml milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- 300 g flour (white or whole grain, as preferred)
- 30 g soft butter (at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 1 packet baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 50 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to taste)
- 1 vial vanilla essence (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- Oil for frying (sunflower oil or melted butter)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Ensure that the eggs and milk are at room temperature, so they mix better. If you don’t have soft butter, you can melt it slightly and let it cool.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk or mixer. Add the milk, soft butter, sugar, and vanilla essence. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

3. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. It’s important to mix them well before adding them to the wet mixture to avoid lumps.

4. Combining the ingredients: Add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or a mixer on low speed to mix everything together. Don’t overmix; a few small lumps are fine. This way, the pancakes will remain fluffy.

5. Heating the pan: Place a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil. It’s important that the pan is well heated, but not so much that the oil smokes. You can check if the pan is ready by dropping a droplet of water; if it dances on the surface, it’s time to start.

6. Cooking the pancakes: Use a ½ cup ladle to pour the batter into the pan. Let it spread on its own without moving it. Cook each pancake for 2-3 minutes, until you see bubbles forming on the surface. That’s the time to flip the pancake using a spatula.

7. Finishing the pancakes: After flipping the pancake, let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and fluffy. Continue with the rest of the batter, making sure to add oil to the pan if needed.

8. Serving: Once all the pancakes are ready, you can serve them immediately. I recommend pairing them with whipped cream, blackberry jam, maple syrup, or fresh fruits for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Considerations:

These pancakes have a moderate caloric intake, with around 200 calories per serving, depending on toppings. Whole grain flour can add fiber and additional nutrients, making them a healthier choice. Additionally, eggs contain quality protein, and milk provides calcium.

Variations and Practical Tips:

- Add-ins: You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a unique flavor. You can also incorporate chocolate or dried fruits for an extra flavor boost.
- Alternative flour: If you prefer to avoid gluten, you can use almond flour or other gluten-free alternatives.
- Alternative servings: These pancakes pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a fresh smoothie. You can also add Greek yogurt as a topping for an extra protein boost.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why aren’t my pancakes fluffy?
Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the flour. A few small lumps are acceptable and help achieve a fluffy texture.

2. Can I prepare the batter a day in advance?
It’s recommended to prepare the batter just before cooking the pancakes, but if you need to prepare it in advance, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to mix it again before use.

3. How can I store pancakes for later?
Pancakes can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days or frozen. Reheat them in the microwave or in a pan to bring them back to life.

I conclude this recipe with a thought: every morning is an opportunity to create delicious memories, and American pancakes are the perfect choice to start the day with a smile. Enjoy every bite!