Pancakes with vanilla cream
Vanilla Cream Pancakes: A Refined Delight
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Today, I present you a delicious recipe for vanilla cream pancakes, a simple yet elegant dessert, perfect for enjoying at breakfast or as a sweet snack during the day. These pancakes are fluffy, and the vanilla cream turns them into an absolute indulgence. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!
A Brief Story about Pancakes
Pancakes have a long history, being consumed across various cultures over time. From thin pancakes that can be filled with various ingredients to thicker ones, all hold a special place in the hearts of cooking enthusiasts. Today’s recipe pays tribute to tradition but with a modern twist thanks to the delicate vanilla cream that perfectly complements them.
Ingredients
For the pancakes:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla essence (or a vanilla pod)
- 400 g flour
- A pinch of salt
- Sparkling water (about 500 ml, adjust according to desired consistency)
- Oil for greasing the pan
For the vanilla cream:
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 500 ml milk
- 50 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 packet of vanilla essence (or a vanilla pod)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pancake Batter
1. In a large bowl, crack the 2 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Using a mixer, beat the eggs until they double in volume, which will make the pancakes slightly fluffy.
2. Add the sugar and vanilla essence to the egg mixture. Continue mixing to incorporate these ingredients well.
3. Gradually start adding the flour, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. Make sure there are no lumps.
4. Gradually add sparkling water until you achieve a fluid consistency, but not too runny. The batter should have a texture similar to cream.
Step 2: Cooking the Pancakes
1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little oil, using a paper towel to remove excess.
2. Using a ladle, pour the batter into the pan, tilting the pan to evenly cover the bottom. Cook the pancake for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift and a slight golden color appears, then flip it to the other side and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Repeat the process until you finish all the batter, being careful to grease the pan with oil only when necessary.
Step 3: Preparing the Vanilla Cream
1. In a bowl, mix the 6 tablespoons of sugar with the 3 tablespoons of cornstarch.
2. In another bowl, beat the 2 eggs with a pinch of salt. Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture, continuing to mix until well combined.
3. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat, but do not let it boil. Once it’s hot, gradually pour it over the egg mixture, stirring vigorously to avoid curdling the eggs.
4. Put the mixture back in the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the cream thickens and becomes smooth.
5. Once the cream is ready, let it cool slightly, then add the softened butter and mix well until homogeneous. Finally, add the vanilla essence and mix again.
Step 4: Assembling the Pancakes
1. Fill each pancake with a generous layer of vanilla cream. You can roll the pancakes or fold them in half, depending on your preference.
2. Place the filled pancakes on a platter and, if desired, you can decorate them with a little powdered sugar or some fresh fruits.
Serving Suggestions
These vanilla cream pancakes are delicious served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. A wonderful idea is to accompany them with a berry sauce or maple syrup. Additionally, a fruit tea or a flavored coffee pairs perfectly with these delights.
Practical Tips
- Flour: Use type 000 flour or pastry flour for fluffier results.
- Sparkling water: Sparkling water helps aerate the batter, making the pancakes lighter. If you don't have sparkling water, you can use still water, but the result may be slightly different.
- Cream: Make sure to stir the cream continuously while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use plant-based milk for the cream?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or oat milk. The taste will change slightly, but the cream will still be delicious.
2. Can I prepare the pancakes in advance?
Absolutely! The pancakes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. When serving, you can heat them in a pan or microwave.
3. What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with fillings such as Nutella, fruit jams, sweet cheese, or even a combination of fresh fruits with yogurt.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe for vanilla cream pancakes offers a good source of carbohydrates from the flour, protein from the eggs, and calcium from the milk. It is a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation, considering the sugar content. And of course, adding fresh fruits will increase the intake of vitamins and minerals.
Remember, cooking is an art, so let your imagination soar, experiment with ingredients, and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! These vanilla cream pancakes will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!
Ingredients: Pancakes: 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons sugar, vanilla, 400 g flour, a pinch of salt, sparkling water. Cream: 2 eggs, 6 tablespoons sugar, 3 tablespoons starch, 500 ml milk, 50 g butter, vanilla essence.
