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Fluffy Japanese Pancakes Recipe Easy Homemade Soft Pancakes to Melt in Your Mouth

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These fluffy Japanese pancakes are thick, airy, and melt in your mouth, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. They use a gentle folding technique and low heat cooking to achieve their signature soft texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Set aside.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk 2 egg yolks, ½ cup (120ml) milk, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Fold wet into dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay.
  4. Whip egg whites: In a clean bowl, with an electric mixer, beat 2 egg whites and ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (if using) until stiff peaks form.
  5. Fold egg whites into batter: Using a spatula, gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Then carefully fold in the remaining whites in two additions.
  6. Heat the pan: Preheat your nonstick skillet over low heat. Lightly grease with oil or butter.
  7. Cook pancakes: Using a ladle or measuring cup, scoop about ¼ cup (60ml) of batter per pancake onto the skillet. If using ring molds, place them on the skillet first and pour batter inside. Cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 4–5 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom is golden.
  8. Flip carefully: Gently remove the lid and slide a spatula under each pancake. Flip carefully and cook another 3–4 minutes covered.
  9. Serve warm: Transfer pancakes to a plate, stack them high, and add your favorite toppings.

Notes

Keep the heat low to avoid burning the pancakes while ensuring they cook through. Fold egg whites gently to keep the batter airy. If batter is too thick, add a splash more milk. Covering the pan traps steam and helps pancakes rise better. Warm plates before serving to maintain softness. Lightly grease ring molds if using.

Nutrition

Keywords: fluffy Japanese pancakes, soft pancakes, homemade pancakes, easy pancake recipe, Japanese souffle pancakes