Two-tone pancakes with vanilla cream, apples, and caramelized nuts

Bicolor Pancakes with Vanilla Cream, Apple, and Caramelized Nuts

These bicolor pancakes are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a true visual pleasure! Whether you're preparing them for a special breakfast or a refined dessert, these pancakes filled with vanilla cream, apple, and caramelized nuts will fill your heart with joy. Let me guide you step by step through this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 plain pancakes and 6 cocoa pancakes

Ingredients

For the pancake batter:
- 100 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 200 ml milk
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 pinch of salt
- or (for the cocoa pancakes):
- 80 g flour
- 20 g cocoa
- 2 eggs
- 200 ml milk
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 400 ml milk
- 5-6 drops of vanilla extract
- 120 g sugar
- 70 g flour
- 2 eggs

For the caramelized nuts:
- 90 g sugar
- 80 g walnut meat

For decoration:
- 1 large apple

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the pancake batter

In a deep bowl, place the flour. If you want to make cocoa pancakes, add the cocoa as well. Create a well in the center of the flour and crack the eggs into it. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the eggs. Using a whisk, mix the eggs with the flour until you achieve a smooth mixture.

Add the oil and gradually pour in the milk while continuously mixing. Keep stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free, resembling the consistency of fresh cream. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach the desired texture.

Step 2: Cooking the pancakes

Spray a non-stick skillet with a few drops of oil and place it over low heat. Using a ladle, pour a bit of the pancake batter into the skillet, gently swirling it to evenly cover the bottom.

When the surface of the pancake begins to dry and the edges lift from the skillet, flip the pancake to the other side. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try flipping the pancake by hand! Cook the pancake on the other side for 10-15 seconds, then transfer it to a plate. Continue the process until all the pancakes are cooked, alternating between plain and cocoa ones.

Step 3: Preparing the vanilla cream

In a saucepan, pour half of the milk and add a few drops of vanilla extract. In another bowl, separate the eggs and add the yolks to the other half of the milk. Add half of the sugar and the flour, mixing well with a whisk.

Pour the yolk mixture into the saucepan with the hot milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the cream thickens. Whip the egg whites with the remaining sugar and gently fold them into the warm cream, allowing it to cool completely.

Step 4: Caramelizing the nuts

In a skillet, melt the sugar over low heat, being careful not to burn it. When the sugar turns liquid and golden, add the chopped walnut meat. Stir with a spoon for 2-3 minutes until you smell the roasted nut aromas. Pour the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper, leveling it out, and let it cool. Once hardened, break it into small pieces.

Step 5: Assembling the pancakes

Peel the apple and cut it into small cubes. Generously spread each pancake with vanilla cream, then sprinkle with apple cubes and pieces of caramelized nuts. You can roll the pancakes according to your preference: leave them plain or fold them in half.

Serving

These bicolor pancakes with vanilla cream, apple, and caramelized nuts are delicious served warm. You can decorate them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for added flavor. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or a flavorful espresso.

Useful tips

- Calories and nutritional benefits: These pancakes are a good source of carbohydrates, but it's best to consume them in moderation due to their sugar and fat content. However, the nuts provide healthy fatty acids and protein.
- Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of flour (for example, whole wheat flour) or substitute the apple with other fruits, such as pears or bananas.
- Ingredient maintenance: Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform batter.
- Storing pancakes: If you don't consume them immediately, you can store the pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in a skillet or oven.

Frequently asked questions

- Why do pancakes stick to the skillet?
Make sure the skillet is well heated and use the appropriate oil. It's a good idea to spray the skillet with oil before each pancake.

- Can I use plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Almond or soy milk are excellent alternatives that will give the pancakes a unique flavor.

These bicolor pancakes with vanilla cream, apple, and caramelized nuts are a true delicacy that combines textures and flavors. Enjoy them with your loved ones, as food is always tastier when shared! Bon appétit!