Candlemas is just around the corner, and this year, a new culinary trend is emerging, transforming our way of enjoying pancakes. Get ready to surprise your taste buds and impress your guests with innovative creations that give a fresh take on tradition.
Light and indulgent soufflé pancakes
This year, soufflé pancakes are making a remarkable entrance onto our tables. Combining the delicacy of traditional pancakes with the airy texture of soufflés, they provide a unique taste experience. To make them, simply fold whipped egg whites into the classic pancake batter to add volume and lightness. Stuffed with fresh fruits, melted chocolate, or pastry cream, these soufflé pancakes will delight lovers of refined sweets.
Easy soufflé pancake recipe for Candlemas
Here is a simple and delicious recipe for making soufflé pancakes that will wow your guests.
Ingredients (for 6 soufflé pancakes)
- For the pancake batter:
- 100 g of flour
- 2 whole eggs
- 250 ml of milk
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional for a sweet version)
- 20 g of melted butter
- For the soufflé effect:
- 3 egg whites
- 30 g of powdered sugar (for a sweet version)
- A pinch of salt
Preparation
- Making the pancake batter
- In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Create a well and crack the two eggs in the center. Whisk while gradually adding the milk to avoid lumps.
- Add the melted butter and mix until you get a smooth batter. Let the batter rest for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Preparing the whipped egg whites
- Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form with a pinch of salt. If you’re making a sweet version, add the sugar gradually as the whites begin to froth.
- Folding in the whipped egg whites
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the pancake batter using a spatula. Use circular motions to avoid breaking the whites. The texture should be light and airy.
- Cooking the soufflé pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter.
- Pour a ladle of batter into the skillet, taking care not to spread it too much to maintain its thickness.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the pancake is golden on the bottom and slightly puffed.
- Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Suggested toppings
- Sweet version: Accompany your soufflé pancakes with fresh fruits (strawberries, raspberries, bananas), melted chocolate, or a caramel sauce. A dusting of powdered sugar on top will add a chic finish.
- Savory version: Fill them with grated cheese, ham, sautéed mushrooms, or a dollop of sour cream.
Gluten-free and vegan pancakes: a healthy and tasty alternative
With the rise of specific diets, gluten-free and vegan pancakes are gaining popularity. By replacing wheat flour with alternatives like rice or buckwheat flour and substituting eggs and milk with plant-based options, these pancakes can cater to everyone without compromising on flavor. They allow for a variety of tastes while respecting individual dietary choices.
Delicious and light gluten-free pancake recipe
Here is a simple and tasty recipe for making gluten-free pancakes, suitable for those with intolerances or anyone looking to diversify their diet.
Ingredients (for 8 pancakes)
- 100 g of rice flour
- 50 g of cornstarch (Maïzena)
- 2 eggs
- 300 ml of milk (or plant-based milk, such as almond or rice milk)
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (sunflower, coconut, or rapeseed)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional for a sweet version)
- A knob of butter or a bit of oil for cooking
Preparation
- Mixing dry ingredients
- In a bowl, sift the rice flour and cornstarch to eliminate lumps.
- Add the pinch of salt (and sugar if making sweet pancakes).
- Incorporating the eggs
- Create a well in the center and crack the eggs in.
- Gradually mix with a whisk to form a thick and smooth batter.
- Adding the milk
- Pour in the milk gradually while continuing to mix to avoid lumps. The batter should be fluid but not too runny. Adjust with a bit of milk or water if needed.
- Resting the batter
- Let the batter rest for about 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period allows the rice flour to absorb the liquid for a perfect texture.
- Cooking the pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or butter.
- Pour a ladle of batter and tilt the skillet to spread the batter into a thin layer.
- Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the edges begin to lift. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another minute on the other side.
Suggested toppings
- Sweet version: Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruits, jam, or a drizzle of honey.
- Savory version: Fill with grilled vegetables, melted cheese, or a slice of smoked salmon with some sour cream.
Reinvented savory pancakes: boldness and creativity on the menu
While sweet pancakes have always been popular, savory versions are making a comeback this year. Chefs are proposing unexpected combinations, mixing seasonal vegetables, aged cheeses, and exotic spices. For example, a pancake filled with sautéed mushrooms, goat cheese, and honey offers a perfect balance between earthy flavors and sweetness. These daring creations invite us to rediscover pancakes in a new light.
Pancake cakes: a sumptuous stack for a guaranteed effect
To impress your guests, why not opt for a pancake cake? By stacking around twenty thin pancakes, each spread with pastry cream, jam, or chocolate ganache, you create an elegant and delicious dessert. Easy to make, this cake can be customized in many ways and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for your gatherings.
Aromatic pancakes: a touch of whimsy in the batter
To add a note of originality, consider flavoring your pancake batter. Adding citrus zest, edible flowers, or spices such as cinnamon or cardamom can turn a simple pancake into a delightful treat. These subtle aromas will awaken the senses and delight even the most discerning palates.
A Candlemas focused on innovation
This Candlemas 2025 promises to be rich in culinary discoveries. By daring to step off the beaten path and experimenting with these new trends, we uphold tradition while infusing it with a touch of modernity. So, grab your pans! Unleash your creativity and share these delights with your loved ones for convivial and gourmet moments…