
Fluffy Vanilla Butter Pancakes with a Variety of Fillings
Ingredients:
- 65 ml of milk (preferably whole milk for a richer texture)
- 1.5 tablespoons of vanilla butter pudding powder (for a subtle, creamy flavor)
- 1 large egg (preferably room temperature for better incorporation)
- 1 tablespoon of white cheese (such as ricotta or farmer’s cheese, to add creaminess)
Optional Fillings:
- Jam (any fruit flavor)
- Nutella or sugar-free hazelnut spread
- Melted chocolate (dark or milk chocolate, depending on preference)
- Cottage cheese with a dash of sweetener and vanilla
- Poppy seeds mixed with sugar and butter
- Crushed nuts like almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts
- Fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, begin by whisking the milk, vanilla butter pudding powder, and egg together. For the best texture, make sure the egg is at room temperature so it blends more easily with the other ingredients.
Gradually add the white cheese, ensuring it incorporates smoothly into the mixture. You can use a hand mixer or whisk for this process, but be mindful not to overbeat the batter as this can affect the pancake’s lightness.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a slightly sweeter pancake, add a teaspoon of sweetener such as stevia or a small amount of sugar.
Step 2: Cooking the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or pancake griddle over medium heat. Lightly brush the surface with oil or butter to ensure that the pancakes don’t stick and gain a golden-brown crust.
Pour a small amount of the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly to form thin pancakes. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear firm. Flip the pancake gently and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Tip: You can make multiple pancakes at once by pouring smaller amounts of batter into the pan for mini-sized pancakes. This is especially great for bite-sized appetizers or dessert platters.
Step 3: Filling and Serving
Once the pancakes are cooked to perfection, place them on a plate and let them cool slightly.
For the fillings, you can choose from a variety of options:
- For a sweet option, spread jam or Nutella onto the pancake, roll it up, and enjoy. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence.
- For a more savory touch, fill them with cottage cheese or white cheese and sprinkle with cinnamon or sweetener. The creamy texture pairs well with the soft pancake, creating a balanced bite.
- For texture lovers, try filling the pancakes with crushed nuts or poppy seeds, giving a delightful crunch to the soft pancake base.
Once filled, roll or fold the pancakes, and serve them warm. You can even dust them with powdered sweetener or drizzle with sugar-free syrup for added sweetness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g (adjust depending on the fillings you use)
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g (without added fillings)
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on the type of fillings used. For example, using Nutella or jam will increase the carbohydrate and sugar content, while using cottage cheese or crushed nuts will boost the protein and fat content.
Additional Tips:
- Customization: These pancakes are incredibly versatile. You can make them lower-carb by using almond flour or coconut flour instead of the pudding powder. To reduce the sugar content, opt for sugar-free fillings such as stevia-sweetened chocolate or low-carb fruit preserves.
- Make-Ahead Option: These pancakes store well. You can prepare them in advance, refrigerate, or even freeze them. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm them up in a pan or microwave before adding the filling.
- Serving Ideas: For an elevated presentation, serve these pancakes stacked and topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of cinnamon and cocoa powder.
- Dietary Modifications: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the vanilla butter pudding powder with gluten-free vanilla pudding mix or use a gluten-free flour alternative. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese like almond or coconut cream.
Enjoy your delightful pancakes with a filling of your choice! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, this versatile recipe can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary preference.