Description
African Pancakes are a delicious and fluffy treat characterized by a subtly spiced batter with nutmeg and vanilla. These pancakes require resting the batter for optimal texture and are cooked on a skillet to a golden perfection, great for breakfast or brunch and served with a variety of toppings like cinnamon sugar, syrup, or spreads.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (240g) flour
- ½-⅔ cup (100-130g) sugar
- ¼-½ teaspoon (1g) nutmeg
- ¾ teaspoon (4-5g) salt
Wet Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1½ cups (354ml) milk
- ¼ cup (60g) melted butter
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) oil, optional (as needed to grease the pan)
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, sugar, nutmeg, and salt into a bowl to ensure even distribution and remove any lumps. Set this mixture aside.
- Beat eggs and milk: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and milk together until well combined using a mixer or by hand to create a smooth base for the batter.
- Combine ingredients: Slowly mix in the sifted flour mixture into the egg and milk mixture until everything is well incorporated and the batter is smooth. Then, stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract, which add richness and flavor.
- Rest the batter: Cover the batter and let it rest in the refrigerator for about an hour or preferably overnight. This resting period helps to develop flavor and improve texture, resulting in lighter pancakes.
- Heat skillet: Heat a skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly coat with vegetable oil, cooking spray, or clarified butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook pancakes: Pour about ½ cup of batter into the skillet and tilt the pan to spread the batter evenly across the bottom. Cook for approximately 2 minutes or until the bottom is lightly browned. Use a spatula to carefully lift and flip the pancake, then cook the other side until it is also golden brown.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes hot, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or syrup. You can also fill them with nut butter, jam, or cream cheese to suit your taste.
Notes
- Resting the batter is key for fluffy pancakes; do not skip this step.
- Adjust sugar amount according to your sweetness preference.
- You can use clarified butter or any neutral oil for greasing the pan.
- The batter thickness can be adjusted with slightly more milk if needed for thinner pancakes.
- Pancakes can be kept warm in a low oven if making for a group.
