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Amazing 5 Step Fluffy Japanese Pancakes Secret

Fluffy Japanese Pancakes (Brunch Showstopper)

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Learn the secret to making tall, jiggly, fluffy Japanese pancakes. This recipe helps you achieve that social media-worthy brunch showstopper right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract.
  2. Sift in the flour and baking powder. Whisk until just combined into a smooth batter. Do not overmix.
  3. In a separate, clean bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Add the cream of tartar.
  4. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  5. Gently fold one-third of the meringue into the yolk batter to lighten it.
  6. Carefully fold in the remaining meringue in two additions, keeping the batter airy and fluffy.
  7. Heat a non-stick griddle or pan over very low heat. Lightly grease.
  8. Place metal rings (about 3 inches wide and 2 inches tall) on the griddle, if using, for height.
  9. Pour batter into the rings or freeform onto the griddle, filling about halfway.
  10. Add a tablespoon of water to the empty space on the griddle beside the pancakes. Immediately cover with a lid.
  11. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottoms are golden.
  12. Gently remove the lid, add a little more batter on top of each pancake, and add another tablespoon of water to the griddle. Cover again.
  13. Cook for another 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip the pancakes (this takes practice).
  14. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes more until cooked through and golden brown. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use a very low heat setting. These cook slowly to achieve height without burning.
  • Stiff peaks for the meringue are crucial for structure.
  • Be extremely gentle when folding the meringue into the batter; this keeps them fluffy.
  • Metal rings help create the signature tall shape.

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