Banat pancakes

Banat pancakes: a sweet, fluffy, and irresistible delicacy

If you are looking for a dessert recipe that will impress and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, Banat pancakes are the perfect choice. This traditional dish, full of flavor and varied textures, will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey. With delicious fillings and a light meringue on top, these pancakes are a true feast for the senses.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 pancakes

Ingredients

For the pancakes:
- 300 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon oil (plus oil for frying, optional)
- A pinch of salt
- 150 ml sparkling water

For the filling:
- 1 package of cottage cheese (200-250 g)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar (preferably homemade)
- Rum essence (to taste)

For the cream:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar
- 200 ml sweet cream

For the meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons sugar

Instructions

1. Preparing the pancake batter
In a large bowl, mix the eggs well with a tablespoon of oil and a pinch of salt. It is important to use fresh eggs for better taste and ideal texture. Gradually add the flour and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. It is recommended to use a whisk or spatula for an even mix.

Once the mixture is homogeneous, incorporate the sparkling water. This will add a fluffy texture to the pancakes. Let the batter sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes – this step is essential for achieving thicker and airier pancakes.

2. Frying the pancakes
Heat a ceramic pan (ideal for preventing sticking) over medium heat. If the pan is well heated, you won’t need additional oil. Pour a ladle of the pancake batter, swirling the pan to evenly distribute the dough. Fry the pancake for 2-3 minutes or until the edges begin to lift, then flip it and let it cook on the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Continue with the remaining batter, adjusting the temperature if necessary.

3. Preparing the filling
In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese, egg, vanilla sugar, and rum essence. This creamy filling will add a delicious taste to your pancakes. Be sure to mix all the ingredients well to achieve a smooth composition.

4. Assembling the pancakes
Fill each pancake with a generous portion of filling. Roll them up like little packages and carefully place them in a baking dish. You can place them seam side down to prevent them from unfolding.

5. Preparing the cream
For the vanilla cream, beat the egg yolks with the vanilla sugar until they become a frothy mixture. Add the sweet cream and mix well. Pour the cream over the pancakes, ensuring they are evenly covered.

6. Preparing the meringue
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the sugar until you achieve a stiff meringue. If you don’t have a mixer, you can use a whisk, but the process will take longer. The meringue should be shiny and form stiff peaks. Spread the meringue over the pancakes, making sure to cover them evenly.

7. Baking the pancakes
Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for 8-10 minutes or until the meringue turns golden. It is essential to watch the pancakes to avoid burning the meringue.

8. Serving the pancakes
Banat pancakes are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them with a caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra flavor boost. A great option would be to accompany them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee.

Useful tips
- For a smoother texture: Sifting the flour before use can help avoid lumps.
- Variations: You can experiment with fillings, using ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Make-ahead: Pancakes can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, you can reheat them in the oven to bring them to the ideal temperature.

Nutritional benefits
Banat pancakes, containing cottage cheese and eggs, provide a good source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins. However, be aware that adding sugar and meringue can significantly increase the calorie count. A serving of 2-3 pancakes can contain approximately 400-500 calories, depending on ingredients and quantities.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier dish, but it will change the texture of the pancakes.
2. How can I store pancakes for longer? Pancakes can be frozen between sheets of parchment paper. When you want to serve them, let them thaw at room temperature.
3. Can they be made vegan? Yes, you can use plant-based milk, flax eggs (mixing 1 tablespoon of flax seeds with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg), and natural sweeteners.

Therefore, Banat pancakes are not only a delicious dessert but also a way to bring family and friends together. Whether you enjoy them on the weekend or at a special occasion, these flavorful pancakes will make you feel good and savor every bite!