FoodDutch delight: The irresistible allure of pancakes

Dutch delight: The irresistible allure of pancakes

Fluffy, delicate, and mouth-watering – poffertjes, or Dutch pancakes, are a true feast for the palate. Perfect for lazy Saturday mornings, they combine tradition and simplicity that will delight everyone.

They are a great idea for a nutritious breakfast.
They are a great idea for a nutritious breakfast.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Charlotte Lake

Dutch pancakes, known as poffertjes, are a true symbol of the Kingdom of the Netherlands' cuisine. These fluffy, miniature pancakes stand out for their delicate taste and soft texture, captivating both children and adults alike.

Poffertjes - a unique delicacy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Traditionally made on a special pan with small indentations, poffertjes have become an integral part of Dutch markets and culinary festivals.

The secret of their popularity lies in the unique combination of simple ingredients: wheat and buckwheat flour, milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar and salt. Poffertjes are usually served with butter and icing sugar, although they are increasingly seen in modern versions – with fruits, creams, or syrups.

It's worth noting that Dutch pancakes are not just a culinary tradition but also a way of celebrating moments together. Preparing and eating them among family or friends is a true feast for the senses. If you're looking for breakfast inspiration that will impress everyone – poffertjes are a perfect choice.

Recipe for poffertjes

Making Dutch pancakes in the comfort of your home is easier than it might seem. Below you'll find a classic recipe for poffertjes that will allow you to bring the taste of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 120g wheat flour,
  • 120g buckwheat flour,
  • 300ml warm milk,
  • 10g fresh yeast (or 1 teaspoon dry yeast),
  • 1 tablespoon sugar,
  • pinch of salt,
  • 1 egg,
  • butter (for frying),
  • icing sugar (for sprinkling).

Preparation of Dutch pancakes:

  1. Yeast starter: In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm milk, and sugar. Set aside for 10 minutes until the yeast starts to work and foam appears on the surface.
  2. Preparing the batter: In a larger bowl, mix both types of flour and salt. Add the egg and the ready yeast starter. Mix everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, uniform batter. Set it aside in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes to double its volume.
  3. Cooking the poffertjes: Heat a special poffertjes pan (or a regular pan if not available). Grease the indentations with a bit of butter and fill them with batter up to two-thirds full. Cook on medium heat until the bottom is golden and the top is no longer liquid. Then flip the pancakes and cook for a while longer.
  4. Serving: Sprinkle the ready poffertjes with icing sugar and serve with a piece of butter. You can also enhance them with your favourite toppings, such as fresh fruits, maple syrup, or whipped cream.


With this recipe for Dutch pancakes, every Saturday will become a true festival of taste. Regardless of the occasion, poffertjes are a dish that always makes an impression.

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