Hotcakes

Hotcakes Recipe: The Irresistible Pancakes to Wake Up Your Mornings

Hotcakes, also known as pancakes, are one of the most beloved and versatile breakfasts in many cultures. Their fluffy texture, mild flavor, and delicious aroma make them an ideal option to start the day with energy. In this guide, you will learn how to prepare homemade hotcakes with simple ingredients and techniques that guarantee perfect results every time. From selecting the right mix to tricks for achieving even cooking, you will discover everything you need to become an expert in this classic recipe. Additionally, we will explore different variations and useful tips so you can customize your hotcakes according to your preferences and surprise family and friends on every occasion.

Preparation time

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 15 minutes
• Total: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients for Homemade Hotcakes

For the mix

• 2 cups wheat flour (can be all-purpose)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (better if it's good quality like Tres Estrellas)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (whole or skim, according to preference)
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for an aromatic touch

To accompany

• Butter in portions
• Maple syrup or honey
• Fresh fruits (bananas, strawberries, blueberries)
• Optional: cream cheese or plain yogurt

Utensils we will use to prepare hotcakes

• Non-stick pan or griddle
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cup
• Large spoon or ladle
• Spatula
• Plate with napkins for serving

How to prepare perfect Hotcakes at home?

1. Prepare the mix

• Gather all ingredients and measure quantities precisely using a measuring cup. Accuracy ensures a fluffy texture and balanced flavor.
• In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Toasting these dry ingredients helps the mixture to be more uniform and prevents lumps.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla if you decide to use it. The combination of these liquids with the dry ingredients is key for a smooth and homogeneous batter.
• Slowly pour the liquids into the dry ingredients, using a whisk to integrate without overworking the batter. It's normal for there to be some small lumps; do not overbeat them, as it can toughen the pancakes.

2. Cook the hotcakes in the pan or griddle

• Preheat the pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. The perfect temperature is when a drop of water sizzles and quickly disappears.
• With a large spoon or ladle, pour portions of the mixture into the pan, forming circles approximately 10 cm in diameter. Avoid overcrowding the pan so they cook evenly.
• Cook until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look golden. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If the heat is too high, lower it a bit so they don't burn before they're ready.
• Flip with a spatula and cook on the other side until golden and cooked through in the center. To check, insert a toothpick and ensure it comes out clean.

3. Finishing and presentation

• To finish, place the pancakes on a plate and keep them warm by covering them with aluminum foil. Meanwhile, prepare your favorite accompaniment.
• It is recommended to serve them immediately to enjoy their fluffy texture and fresh aroma. Add butter and syrup, decorate with fruits, and accompany with a cup of coffee or tea.

To finish and serve your hotcakes

Remove the pancakes from the heat and place them on a plate. Add a knob of butter while they are still hot so it melts slowly. Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or a touch of cream. The key is in the presentation and enjoying them while still tender and fluffy.

I want to share these tips so your hotcakes are a success

• Improve the texture: do not overbeat the batter, just integrate it until it is uniform to maintain that characteristic fluffiness.
• Heat control: cook over medium heat so that the heat penetrates without burning the outside. A trick is to put a little butter in the pan to notice if it is at the correct temperature.
• Extra flavor: add a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a distinct aromatic touch.
• Customization: incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or small fruits into the batter before cooking to vary the flavors.
• Batter Correction: if the batter is too thick, add a little more milk; if it's too liquid, a little more flour. The ideal consistency is that of thick cream.

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Proteins: 8 g
• Fats: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Values are estimated per serving and may vary depending on exact quantities and ingredients used.

7 keys for your hotcakes to turn out perfect

1. Use fresh, quality ingredients, such as the mix of Hot Cakes La Costeña for a richer result.
2. Measure dry and liquid ingredients well to achieve the desired texture.
3. Do not overmix the batter: only mix until the ingredients are incorporated.
4. Heat the pan well before adding the batter to prevent it from sticking and becoming hard.
5. Control the temperature during cooking, using medium heat and adjusting if necessary.
6. Include additional ingredients, such as cinnamon or fruits, to give them a special touch.
7. Enjoy the hotcakes freshly made, at their perfect point of freshness and fluffiness.

When is the best time to enjoy hotcakes?

The best time to enjoy hotcakes is in the morning, at a family breakfast or a Sunday brunch. However, their versatility also makes them perfect for snacks or special dinners, when you want to comfort yourself with something sweet and warm. Take advantage of holidays, weekends, or even for a surprise breakfast on festive days, always ensuring to use fresh ingredients like those offered by Flavors of my Kitchen.

Similar recipes and irresistible alternatives to traditional hotcakes

Frequently asked questions about the Hotcakes recipe

Share your experience with this Hotcakes recipe

Once you prepare these hotcakes, tell us how they turned out and if you customized them with your favorite ingredients? The best part of cooking at home is experimenting and discovering new flavors, so don't hesitate to leave your comments and share your own tricks for getting those perfect hotcakes. Go ahead and surprise at every breakfast!

Culinary Glossary of Hotcakes

• Whisk: utensil for mixing liquid and dry ingredients, helps to integrate without generating too much gluten in flours.
• Tender point: indicates that the hotcake is cooked through, soft and fluffy, with no raw or dry parts.
• Consistency: the texture of the batter, which should be thick but pourable, similar to heavy cream.
• Griddle: flat, hot surface where hotcakes are cooked; at home, it can be replaced by a non-stick pan.
• Rest: let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking to improve fluffiness and prevent the batter from shrinking.