Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

These iconic pancakes are thick, airy, and soft like a soufflé, yet still hold the charm of a classic pancake. Lightly sweet, with a delicate texture, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.


Ingredients (for 3 pancakes)

  • 2 large eggs (separate yolks and whites)

  • 2 tbsp whole milk (30 ml)

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (30 g)

  • ½ tsp baking powder

  • 3 tbsp sugar (40 g)

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • 1 tsp lemon juice (for stabilizing egg whites)

  • 1 tbsp butter or oil (for greasing pan)

Toppings (optional, but recommended):

  • Powdered sugar

  • Fresh berries

  • Whipped cream or ice cream

  • Maple syrup


‍ Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Yolks

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  • Sift in flour + baking powder and mix gently until no lumps remain.

2. Beat the Egg Whites (Meringue)

  • In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with lemon juice until foamy.

  • Gradually add sugar (1 tbsp at a time) while beating.

  • Whip until stiff, glossy peaks form (meringue should stand upright).

3. Fold Gently

  • Take ⅓ of the meringue and fold it into the yolk batter to lighten it.

  • Carefully fold in the remaining meringue in 2 additions, keeping the batter airy and fluffy.

4. Cook the Pancakes

  • Heat a non-stick skillet on low heat and lightly grease with butter/oil.

  • Scoop batter onto the pan in tall mounds (use an ice cream scoop or piping bag).

  • Add a splash of water around the pancakes, then cover with a lid (this steams them).

  • Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, gently flipping once until golden brown and set.

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5. Serve Immediately

  • Dust with powdered sugar, add fruit, whipped cream, or drizzle with maple syrup.


Pro Tips

✔ Beat egg whites to stiff peaks – this is the secret to height and fluffiness.
✔ Cook low and slow – high heat will burn the outside and leave the inside raw.
✔ Use ring molds if you want perfectly round, tall pancakes.
✔ Serve right away – they lose height as they sit.


Variations

  • Matcha Pancakes → Add 1 tsp matcha powder to the flour.

  • Chocolate Pancakes → Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the yolk batter.

  • Cheese Pancakes

    These iconic pancakes are thick, airy, and soft like a soufflé, yet still hold the charm of a classic pancake. Lightly sweet, with a delicate texture, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.


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