Description
Light and fluffy cloud-like lemon soufflé pancakes made with whipped egg whites and a hint of lemon zest for a delicate citrus flavor. These soufflé pancakes are cooked slowly on the stovetop to achieve a golden exterior and a soft, airy interior, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (fluffed, spooned, and leveled)
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Oil (for cooking)
Optional Toppings
- Sweetened whipped cream
- Assorted berries
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Separate Eggs: Separate the egg whites and yolks into two different bowls carefully to avoid breaking the yolk.
- Combine Yolks and Flavorings: Add the milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the egg yolks and whisk lightly until fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and baking powder into the yolk mixture and whisk until smooth. Set aside.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and vinegar or lemon juice on medium speed until frothy.
- Add Sugar and Beat to Peaks: Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Mixtures: Gently fold one-third of the meringue into the yolk mixture until evenly blended, then carefully fold in the rest, avoiding overmixing to maintain airiness.
- Prepare Pan: Heat a nonstick pan over low heat and lightly oil it; wipe off excess oil with a paper towel.
- Cook Pancakes: Spoon batter into 2-3 mounds in the pan, cover with a lid, and cook for 7-8 minutes over low heat.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve immediately with optional toppings such as sweetened whipped cream, berries, powdered sugar, or maple syrup.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs for best volume in the meringue.
- Make sure the pan is heated on low to avoid burning the delicate pancakes.
- Folding gently is crucial to keep the batter airy and light.
- You can substitute lemon zest with orange zest for a different citrus flavor.
- Serve warm immediately as soufflé pancakes tend to deflate after cooling.