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Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Light, airy, and cloud-like pancakes that are perfect for a cozy breakfast or indulgent dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Pancakes
  • 3 large large eggs, separated Room temperature helps volume
  • 2 tablespoons milk Any kind; oat or almond work for a healthy option
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Or a pinch of cream of tartar; stabilizes the egg whites
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted For the batter and to grease the pan; browned butter is heavenly if you have time
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar Reduce to 2 tablespoons for a less-sweet, healthier option
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract For warmth and aroma
  • 1/2 cup cake flour Or all-purpose flour sifted; for taller structure use cake flour
  • 1 pinch salt To balance sweetness
Serving Suggestions
  • to taste powdered sugar For dusting
  • to taste fresh berries For topping
  • to taste maple syrup For drizzling
  • to taste whipped cream For serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Separate the eggs into two large bowls, placing yolks in one and whites in the other. Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
  2. Whisk the yolks with milk, melted butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Add the sifted flour and mix until the batter is just combined — it should be thick and glossy.
  3. In the other bowl, add lemon juice or cream of tartar to the egg whites. Whip on medium speed until frothy, then slowly add the sugar and continue whipping to glossy, stiff peaks.
Cooking
  1. Gently fold one-third of the meringue into the yolk batter to lighten it, then fold in the remaining whites in two additions.
  2. Heat a nonstick skillet over very low heat and brush with a thin layer of butter.
  3. Spoon the batter into the pan to create 3–4 inch rounds. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook gently for 4–6 minutes until the bottoms are golden and the top has set enough to flip.
  4. Carefully flip the pancakes, cover, and cook for another 3–4 minutes until puffed through. Remove to a warm plate and repeat with remaining batter.
  5. Dust with powdered sugar, top with berries, a dollop of cream, or drizzle with maple syrup and serve immediately.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven. Use room-temperature eggs for better volume and sift flour for a lighter batter.