Pancake Cake

Delicate Pancake Cake

In search of a dessert that will impress, the pancake cake proves to be a winning choice. This versatile dish is perfect for both special occasions and a family weekend evening. In the following lines, I will guide you step by step in making this delight, providing you with practical tips and tricks to achieve the perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes (for each pancake)
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 70 g margarine
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (optional, you can also add orange zest for a more aromatic flavor)
- 7 eggs
- 250 g flour
- 500 ml milk

A touch of history:
The pancake cake has deep roots in culinary traditions, being known in various forms around the world. This dish is often associated with moments of celebration and conviviality, bringing people together around the table. Preparing it becomes a true art, and each chef leaves their personal mark on the recipe.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the pancake batter:
Start by beating the egg whites well in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer to achieve a firm foam. Add a few drops of lemon juice to stabilize the egg whites and continue mixing until they become dense and shiny. This step will ensure an airy texture for your pancakes.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the melted margarine, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Mix well to obtain a uniform composition. Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix.

3. Incorporating the flour:
When the mixture is homogeneous, add the sifted flour, but make sure to use the mixer at the lowest speed. This will prevent lumps from forming. Finally, add the lemon zest for an extra flavor.

4. Combining the egg whites with the yolks:
Use a spatula to gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture. It is important not to stir but to gently fold the egg whites into the mixture to keep the air from the foam.

5. Baking the pancakes:
Heat a pancake pan (ideally with lower edges, so you can easily flip the pancakes) and grease it with a little oil. Use a ladle to pour the batter, making sure to cover the entire base of the pan. Cook the pancakes for 3-4 minutes on one side, without flipping them, until the edges become slightly golden and the top is not completely set. This step is crucial, as the uncooked side will form the delicious cream of the cake.

6. Assembling the cake:
After you have finished baking all the pancakes, place them on a platter, sprinkling sugar between each pancake. This helps sweeten the dish and gives it a pleasant texture.

Useful tips:
- Large pancakes: I recommend making larger pancakes, as they will form a stable base for the cake. Use a larger diameter pan to avoid overturning the cake.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor or replace it with natural sweeteners if you prefer a healthier option.
- Toppings: Over time, I have tried various toppings, from melted chocolate, ground nuts, or fresh fruits. But honestly, the pancake cake is delicious and simple, so feel free to serve it without complicated decorations.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fat instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use butter, olive oil, or even coconut oil, depending on your preferences.

- Is it possible to make the pancakes the night before?
Absolutely! The pancakes can be kept in the refrigerator and assembled the next day. Make sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out.

- How can I vary the recipe?
Add flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter, or experiment with different types of sugar for varied tastes. You can also add fillings between the pancakes, such as mascarpone, Greek yogurt, or fruit jams.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs, making it an excellent source of energy. The milk contributes to calcium intake, and sugar can be replaced with healthier alternatives, thus reducing calories.

Serving suggestion:
The pancake cake pairs perfectly with fruit tea or fresh lemonade. Also, for a more sophisticated touch, you can serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream – the combination of warm and cold is simply divine!

I wish you much success in preparing this pancake cake! Every bite will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, and the memories created around the table will be priceless. Enjoy your meal!