Pancakes (my basic recipe)

Delicious Pancakes – The Perfect Recipe for Breakfast

Who doesn't love pancakes? This versatile, easy-to-make dish has become a favorite for many, suitable for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Pancakes are not only delicious but also an opportunity to explore various fillings and toppings, from fresh fruits to chocolate or flavored jams. In this recipe, I will present the classic pancake version that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to your face.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 50 g butter (melted and cooled)
- 3 cups of flour
- Milk (as needed, for a soft batter)
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 vial of rum essence
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of sugar

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the butter is melted and cooled. It is important not to add hot butter, as it could coagulate the eggs.

2. Mixing the yolks: In a large bowl, add the 3 egg yolks, salt, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to mix the ingredients until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy.

3. Adding the butter: Incorporate the melted and cooled butter into the yolk mixture. Continue mixing to ensure an even distribution of butter in the batter.

4. Incorporating dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, continuously mixing to avoid lumps. Then follow with the milk until you achieve a soft and fluid consistency. It is essential to adjust the amount of milk according to the type of flour used, so don’t hesitate to add a little at a time.

5. Activating the baking powder: In a small bowl, mix the baking powder with a little sparkling water (about 2-3 tablespoons) to activate it. This will help achieve fluffier pancakes. Add the mixture to the pancake batter.

6. Rum flavor: Finally, add the rum essence for an extra flavor. This will give the pancakes a subtle yet distinctive taste, making them even more delicious.

7. Resting the batter: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the batter rest in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, resulting in more tender pancakes.

8. Beating the egg whites: Before cooking the pancakes, beat the 3 egg whites with a pinch of salt until you get a firm foam. This will contribute to an airy texture for the pancakes.

9. Combining with the batter: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the pancake batter, mixing gently to not lose the air incorporated.

10. Cooking the pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. You can use a little butter or oil to grease the skillet, but if it is non-stick, it is not always necessary. Pour a ladle of batter into the skillet and spread it evenly to form a thin pancake.

11. Flipping the pancake: Cook the pancake for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to appear on the surface. Then, flip it with a spatula and let it cook for another minute on the other side. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.

12. Serving: Pancakes are delicious and simple but can be served with a variety of fillings: fruit jams, melted chocolate, whipped cream, or fresh fruits. Personally, I love to serve them plain, with a drizzle of maple syrup and a few banana slices.

Practical tips:
- If you want fluffier pancakes, ensure the batter is not too runny. Adjust the amount of milk as needed.
- Add a few drops of vanilla essence for an extra flavor in the batter.
- For a healthier option, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour.

Nutritional benefits:
Pancakes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. If you fill them with fresh fruits, you’ll enrich them with vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy choice for breakfast.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but make sure to add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to achieve a similar texture.

- How can I keep pancakes fresh?
You can keep cooked pancakes in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours, or you can freeze them, interleaving them with baking paper.

Ideal combinations:
Pancakes go wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a flavored tea. You can also serve them with a green smoothie for an energizing breakfast.

Personal note:
This pancake recipe is one of my childhood favorites. I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who always added a touch of magic to every pancake. I recommend you bring a sprinkle of memories into each serving!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Enjoy your delicious pancakes and share them with your loved ones. Bon appétit!