Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Takes 30 minutes | Serves 4 |

Ingredients

4 units eggs, separated
50 g granulated sugar
65 g cake flour (or all-purpose flour)
0.5 tsp baking powder
1 pinch salt
45 ml whole milk (or substitute)
0.5 tsp vanilla extract
60 ml water (for cooking)
1 pat butter (for cooking)

Steps

Prepare the Egg Yolk Mixture

• In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
• Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the yolk mixture. Mix well and set aside.

Beat the Egg Whites

• Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the egg whites until frothy.
• Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Fold the Batter

• Add 1/3 of the stiff egg whites to the yolk mixture and fold gently with a rubber spatula.
• Add the remaining egg whites in two more additions, gently folding after each addition, avoiding deflating the mixture.

Preheat the Skillet

• Set a skillet on low heat and melt a small pat of butter.
• Ensure the skillet is evenly heated while preparing the batter.

Cook the Pancakes (First Round)

• Using a scoop or piping bag, place 4-5 scoops of batter onto the skillet, leaving space between each.
• Add another scoop of batter on top of each pancake to create height.
• Pour 1 tbsp of water into the skillet, avoiding the batter, and cover with a lid. Cook for 2 minutes.

Add More Batter and Continue Cooking

• Remove the lid and add an additional scoop of batter to each pancake.
• Cover the skillet again and cook for another 5-6 minutes over low-medium heat.

Flip the Pancakes

• Check if the bottoms are golden brown. If not, increase heat slightly and cook for another minute.
• Carefully flip each pancake. Add another 1 tbsp of water to the skillet, cover, and cook for 4 more minutes until golden brown and sides are dry.

Repeat for Remaining Batter

• Repeat the cooking process for any remaining batter. This may take 1-2 more batches.

Serve

• Serve the pancakes immediately with toppings like whipped cream, syrup, powdered sugar, or fruit.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.