How to Make Fluffy Pancakes like a Chef: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

How to make fluffy buttermilk pancakes with apple compote

How to Make Fluffy Pancakes like a Chef: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Overview

Who doesn’t love a stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes for breakfast? Making pancakes from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort. Follow this simple recipe to create the perfect fluffy pancakes that will impress your family and friends.

Step 1 – Gather Your Ingredients.

Before you start making your fluffy pancakes, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. It’s important to use fresh ingredients for the best results. 

Buttermilk Batter Ingredients:

  • 1L Buttermilk
  • 600g Plain Flour
  • 3 Eggs
  • 50g Melted Butter
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Sugar

Apple Compote Ingredients:

  • 6 Granny Smith Apples (Keelings)
  • 100g Brown Sugar
  • 2 Whole Cinnamon Sticks
  • 1 Vanilla Bean
  • Zest and Juice of 1 Lemon
  • 100ml Highbank Apple Syrup
  • 100ml Water
  • 100g Butter

Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. Once you have everything you need, you’re ready to start making your pancakes!

Keelings Granny Smith Apples to Make the Apple Compote for the best Fluffy Pancakes
Fluffy Pancake Batter being whisked

Step 2 – Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients.

In a large mixing bowl, simply mix together the dry and wet ingredients and let it rest in the fridge for at least an hour.  This step is crucial as it allows the mixture to relax and results in lighter, fluffier pancakes.

Make sure not to overwork the mixture, as this will overdevelop the gluten in the flour. It is perfectly fine to have small lumps of flour in the batter.

Check out Neighbourhood Naas Restaurant menu.

Buttermilk Pancakes Batter and Frying

Step 3 – Cook the Fluffy Pancakes to Perfection.

Once the batter is ready, cook the pancakes on a non-stick pan until golden. Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges start to look set.. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.  Stack the pancakes on a plate to keep them warm.

Fluffy Pancakes cooked to Perfection.

Step 4 – How to Make the Perfect Apple Compote

It’s time to make the star of the show! Cut the Keeling’s Granny Smith Apples into halves. Add them to a pan with brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and a vanilla bean. The aroma of this mixture will fill your kitchen and leave your mouth watering in anticipation.

 Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sugar caramelises and the apples start to soften, add butter, lemon zest, and the water to the pan. Cook the syrup until it thickens and add Highbank Apple Syrup for an extra burst of apple flavour. Enjoy the sweet and spicy flavours of this homemade apple compote! The Apple Compote pairs perfectly with these homemade fluffy pancakes, but also with other simple dishes to add a sweet kick. Why not enjoy a bowl of Velvet Cloud Yoghurt with some granola and Highbank Apple Syrup?

Find out more about Neighbourhood Naas Restaurant here.

Smoked Apple Compote with Highbank Apple Syrup
How to make the best smoked apple compote

Step 5 – Plating and Garnish for the Pancakes

Once your pancakes are cooked to perfection, it’s time to make them look as good as they taste. Start by stacking your desired portion on a plate, with the largest pancake on the bottom and the smallest on top. Add a dollop of Velvet Cloud Yoghurt on top of the stack, letting it drip down the sides. Finally, drizzle your syrup over the entire stack. Time to enjoy!

How to make fluffy buttermilk pancakes with apple compote

Share your attempt!

Congratulations, you’ve just made Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes just like Best Chef in Kildare – Gareth Naughton! We’d love to see your pancakes. Send us an email restaurant@neighbourhoodnaas.com or tag us on Instagram or Facebook for a chance to win a free cocktail voucher!

Storing and Reheating Pancakes

If you have leftover pancakes and want to store them for later use, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, allow the pancakes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable bag. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for up to a month. To reheat pancakes, you can use a microwave, toaster, or oven. Microwaving is the quickest option, but it may make the pancakes soggy. To preserve the texture, use a toaster or oven, which will also give them a crispy exterior. Whatever method you choose, be sure to watch the pancakes closely to avoid overcooking or burning them.

What’s the secret to fluffy pancakes?

A: To make pancakes fluffier, you can try a few tips:
– Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangy flavour and lighter texture.
– Separate the egg whites and yolks, whisk the whites until stiff peaks form, then fold them into the batter to add airiness.
– Let the pancake batter rest for about an hour before cooking to allow the gluten to relax and create a lighter texture.
– Use baking powder or baking soda as leavening agents to help the pancakes rise.

How can I keep pancakes warm while I’m cooking a big batch?

A: To keep your pancakes warm and delicious:
– Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C).
– As you cook each pancake, place it on a baking sheet or oven-safe plate in the preheated oven.
– Cover the cooked pancakes with a clean kitchen towel or foil to retain moisture and warmth.
– Repeat this process until all the pancakes are cooked, and then serve them together.

Are there any gluten-free options for making fluffy pancakes?

A: Yes, you can make fluffy pancakes using gluten-free ingredients:
– Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a lighter texture.
– Add xanthan gum to the batter to help with binding and mimic the elasticity of gluten.
– Follow the same tips for making pancakes fluffier, such as separating eggs and letting the batter rest.

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