Gratinated pancakes

The dessert I will share with you is a true delight for the taste buds: gratinated pancakes filled with delicious flavored nuts! This quick and simple dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family meal or a gathering with friends. Let's begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the pancakes:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 cup flour (approximately 120 g)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons orange blossom water (optional, for a special flavor)
- Oil for greasing the pan

For the filling:
- 2 cups ground nuts (approximately 200 g)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon

For the gratin:
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups milk (approximately 500 ml)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Pancake Batter
In a bowl, crack the 2 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Using a whisk or fork, beat the eggs well until frothy. Add the milk and mix well. Now, gradually incorporate the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. If the batter is too thick, add a little milk, and if it's too thin, add more flour. If you want to add a special floral note, now is the time to add the 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water.

2. Cooking the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and grease it with a little oil before pouring the first pancake. Use a ladle to pour the batter into the skillet, ensuring it spreads evenly. Cook each pancake for about 1-2 minutes until the edges turn golden, then flip it using a spatula. After cooking both sides, keep the pancakes warm, perhaps covering them with aluminum foil.

3. Preparing the Filling
In a bowl, combine the ground nuts, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix well so that the flavors combine.

4. Assembling the Pancakes
Take each cooked pancake and fill it with the nut mixture. Roll up the pancakes and place them in a baking dish. Cover all the pancakes with an even layer of filling.

5. Preparing the Gratin
In another bowl, beat the 3 eggs and add the 2 cups of milk. Mix well, then pour this mixture over the pancakes arranged in the baking dish. This step will ensure a delicious and soft crust.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes slightly golden on top.

7. Serving
After removing the gratinated pancakes from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them warm, dusted with a little powdered sugar or with a chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast. Offer them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cream for an extra burst of flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Nuts: Use fresh nuts, as they have a more intense flavor. You can experiment with other types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to vary the taste.
- Flavor Variations: Instead of orange blossom water, try adding vanilla extract or cinnamon to the batter.
- Complementary Sauces: This dessert pairs wonderfully with a caramel sauce or a fruit sauce, such as raspberry sauce, which adds a tart note that balances the sweetness of the pancakes.

Nutritional Benefits

This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Lemon adds vitamin C, while milk contributes calcium. Eating gratinated pancakes filled with nuts can provide sustainable energy throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I substitute milk with a plant-based alternative?
Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other preferred plant-based milk.

- Can I prepare the pancakes in advance?
Absolutely! The pancakes can be cooked a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, follow the steps for filling and gratinating.

- What drinks pair well with this dessert?
This delicious dessert pairs perfectly with a herbal tea or an espresso coffee. Additionally, a sweet wine or sparkling wine could wonderfully complement the flavors.

In conclusion, gratinated pancakes filled with nuts are a dessert that brings joy and flavor in every bite. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your own variations! So gather your ingredients and let's enjoy this savory recipe!