Have you ever wondered how pancakes can be so light that they almost feel like clouds on a plate? Many people believe pancakes must be flat, heavy, or filling, but Japanese cooking challenges that idea. The Japanese Souffle Pancake Recipe パンケーキ is famous for its tall shape, soft texture, and gentle sweetness. This recipe shows how simple ingredients and careful cooking can turn an everyday breakfast into something special.

Table of Contents

Overview

The Japanese Souffle Pancake Recipe パンケーキ stands out because of its airy texture and delicate structure. Unlike regular pancakes, these are cooked slowly over low heat, allowing them to rise gently and stay soft inside. The result is a pancake that is fluffy, moist, and light with every bite.

This recipe does not require advanced baking skills or special tools. The total preparation and cooking time is about 20 to 25 minutes. The difficulty level is easy to medium, making it suitable for beginners who follow the steps carefully.

Quick Facts Souffle Pancake Recipe (パンケーキ)

Difficulty

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Easy

Total Time

20–25 minutes mix + cook gently

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Essential Ingredients

Key Ingredients (材料)

Souffle Pancake パンケーキ

These everyday ingredients work together to create soft, fluffy Japanese souffle pancakes. Each item plays a key role in building height, tenderness, and a gentle flavor.

1

Flour (150g)

Flour forms the structure of the souffle pancake. Sifting helps keep the batter light and prevents dense spots in the finished pancake.

Substitution ideas:

• All-purpose flour (recommended)
• Cake flour for extra softness

2

Baking Powder (5g)

Baking powder helps the batter rise during cooking, giving souffle pancakes their tall, airy appearance.

3

Egg (1 piece)

The egg binds the ingredients and adds moisture, helping the pancake stay soft inside while holding its shape.

4

Milk (100ml)

Milk smooths the batter and helps combine dry and wet ingredients evenly.

5

Granulated Sugar (3 tbsp)

Sugar lightly sweetens the pancake and helps create a tender, soft crumb.

6

Salad Oil & Salt

A small amount of oil keeps the pancake moist, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour and baking powder together into a bowl. This step removes lumps and adds air, helping the Souffle Pancake rise evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Crack the egg into a separate bowl and whisk until smooth. Add the milk, granulated sugar, salt, and salad oil. Mix until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Gently

Add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir lightly using a spatula or spoon. Do not overmix. A slightly lumpy batter is acceptable and helps keep the pancake soft.

Step 4: Cook Slowly

Heat a non-stick frying pan, then place it briefly on a damp cloth to reduce excess heat. Set the pan to very low heat. Pour one ladle of batter into the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes until bubbles appear. Flip gently and cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Insert a toothpick to check doneness. If clean, remove and serve.

Secrets to Success and Expert Tips

These simple but important tips will help you make soft, tall, and fluffy Japanese souffle pancakes every time:

• ♥
  Mix the batter gently
  Stir just until the flour disappears. Overmixing removes air and makes the pancakes dense instead of light.
• ♥
  Use very low heat
  Slow cooking allows the pancake to rise evenly and cook through without burning the outside.
• ♥
  Cool the pan before pouring
  Placing the pan briefly on a damp cloth lowers excess heat and helps prevent uneven browning.
• ♥
  Flip only when bubbles appear
  Surface bubbles show that the bottom is set enough to flip without collapsing the pancake.
• ♥
  Handle the pancake gently
  Use a wide spatula and lift carefully to keep the souffle pancake tall and airy.

Assembly and Presentation

To assemble, place the cooked Souffle Pancake carefully onto a serving plate. Stack only if fully cooled slightly to avoid collapsing. The surface should look smooth and lightly golden.

Presentation Tips

• Add a small pat of butter on top
• Drizzle maple syrup gently over the pancake
• Serve immediately for best texture

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Japanese Souffle Pancakes are best eaten fresh. However, short-term storage is possible.

• Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Reheat gently in a covered pan on very low heat.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the texture.

The batter should be used immediately and is not suitable for long storage.

Recipe Variations

Japanese souffle pancakes are easy to customize. You can change flavors, textures, and toppings to match your taste or what you have in your kitchen.

1

Add Gentle Flavors

Mix small amounts into the batter for a light flavor:

• Vanilla extract for a classic taste
• Matcha powder for a mild green tea flavor
• Cocoa powder for a soft chocolate note

2

Change the Texture

Small changes can affect softness and height:

• Use cake flour for extra tenderness
• Add a splash of milk for a softer crumb
• Cook slightly longer for a firmer center

3

Try Different Toppings

Finish your souffle pancakes with simple toppings:

• Butter and maple syrup
• Fresh fruit slices
• Light dusting of powdered sugar

4

Serve in New Ways

Change the look to match the occasion:

• Stack two pancakes for extra height
• Serve on a warm Japanese-style plate
• Add syrup just before serving

More Japanese Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed making Souffle Pancake, you may also love trying other soft and fluffy Japanese desserts at home. Japanese Dorayaki (どら焼き) is a classic sweet treat made with two soft pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste. It is simple to prepare and perfect for snacks or tea time.

Another popular dessert is Japanese Cheesecake スフレチーズケーキ, known for its light, airy texture and gentle sweetness. This cheesecake is baked slowly to achieve a soft, melt-in-the-mouth finish, similar to a souffle.

Conclusion

The Japanese Souffle Pancake Recipe パンケーキ proves that simple ingredients and gentle techniques can create an unforgettable dish. This Souffle Pancake is soft, light, and comforting, making it suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With careful mixing and slow cooking, anyone can enjoy this unique style of pancake at home.

FAQs

What makes a Souffle Pancake different from regular pancakes?

A Souffle Pancake is thicker, lighter, and softer due to gentle mixing and low-heat cooking.

Is this recipe healthy?

This recipe uses simple ingredients and moderate sugar. Portion control helps keep it balanced.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

No. The batter should be cooked immediately to maintain fluffiness.

Why is low heat important?

Low heat allows the pancake to cook evenly and rise without burning.

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation and cooking take about 20 to 25 minutes total.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jp.dishes on Instagram so we can see your delicious creation!