Sweet pancake with chocolate and oranges

1 h
Sweet pancake with chocolate and oranges

Transform your brunch or dessert into an extraordinary affair with our sweet pancake recipe. This delightful dish pairs the comforting warmth of freshly made pancakes with the vibrant zest of homemade orange syrup. A unique fruit salad combines bold flavours of fresh oranges, chocolate and pistachios, topped off with rich ice cream, promising a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether you aim to impress guests or indulge in a luxurious treat, these sweet pancakes provide the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

Ingredients

Orange syrup

Orange juice
500 ml
Sugar
150 g

Pancakes

Plain flour
100 g
Oranges peel, finely grated
1 tbsp
Milk
500 ml
Eggs
6
Butter, melted
50 g

Fruit salad

Large oranges
4
Oranges chocolate, coarsely chopped
50 g
Pistachios, unsalted, coarsely chopped
1 tbsp
Chocolate ice cream
1 l

To garnish

Lemon balm leaves

Instructions

Orange syrup

  • In a small heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the orange juice and sugar to a boil.
  • Cook the mixture uncovered over steady heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, or until it has reduced to 200-250 ml, forming a thick orange syrup.
  • Set the syrup aside to cool completely.

Pancakes

  • In a bowl, combine the flour and orange zest.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk to create a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Add the eggs and melted butter, whisking until well incorporated.
  • Pour about 50 ml of batter into a hot pan (approx. 14 cm in diameter) and spread evenly.
  • Cook the pancake over steady heat for about 1 ½ minutes, or until golden.
  • Flip the pancake and cook the other side.
  • Repeat with the remaining batter to make approx. 16 pancakes.
  • Fold each pancake twice and place on a warm plate, covering with aluminium foil to keep them warm.

Fruit salad

  • Peel and core the oranges, carefully following the natural curve of the fruit.
  • Slice along the membranes of each segment to detach the orange segments cleanly, leaving behind the membrane.
  • Combine the orange segments with chocolate pieces and pistachio nuts, mixing gently to distribute evenly.

To serve

  • Scoop the chocolate ice cream and serve it alongside the warm pancakes, drizzling with orange syrup and adding the fruit salad on the side.
  • Garnish with fresh lemon balm for a bright, aromatic finish.
Enjoy!

Flip your sweet pancakes without a spatula

Flipping pancakes without a spatula is all about confidence and technique. Start by ensuring it’s cooked and stable enough to handle a flip – wait until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set. Next, give the pan a gentle shake to loosen the pancake from the bottom. Swiftly tilt the pan away from you and use a quick flick of the wrist to flip it mid-air, catching it back in the pan. Practice makes perfect, so try with smaller pancakes until you get the hang of it for a flawless, spatula-free flip!

Enhance texture by preparing your batter in advance

Preparing the batter in advance can significantly enhance its texture. Allowing it to rest for 15-30 minutes before cooking gives the flour time to fully hydrate, resulting in pancakes with a smoother, more cohesive texture. For even better results, consider mixing the batter the night before and refrigerating it, covered, to develop deeper flavours and a tender texture. Just be sure to give the batter a gentle stir before using, as ingredients may settle.

Expert tips for segmenting oranges

Segmenting oranges like a pro is all about technique and precision. Start by cutting off the top and bottom of the orange so it sits flat on the cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the peel and white pith, following the curve of the fruit to reveal the flesh. Then, hold the orange in your hand and make cuts along each side of the membrane to release the segments, working gently to keep them intact. Use a small paring knife for maximum control and consider doing this over a bowl to catch any juice. These expert tips ensure clean, beautiful orange segments perfect for this sweet pancake recipe.

Questions about this sweet pancake recipe

Our FAQ section is designed to help you perfect your sweet pancakes. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions, like exploring different ice cream flavours, the importance of gradually whisking in milk for the ideal batter consistency, and tips for avoiding dry pancakes.

What other ice cream flavours can I try?

While chocolate ice cream is a popular choice, trying different flavours can enhance your dessert. Vanilla bean brings a classic elegance, while salted caramel offers a rich taste. Raspberry or strawberry ice cream adds a refreshing twist, pairing well with the orange and chocolate in the pancakes. For something unique, consider coffee or coconut ice cream, which introduce bold, contrasting flavours that complement the sweetness of the pancakes and add an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.

Why do I need to whisk the milk in gradually?

Gradually adding and whisking in wet ingredients like milk ensures even distribution throughout the batter. It allows the flour to hydrate uniformly, preventing clumps and creating a smooth, consistent mixture that cooks evenly. This method also lets you control the batter’s thickness, so you can adjust as needed for your preferred pancake texture – whether light and fluffy or slightly thicker. For best results, use room-temperature milk, which blends more seamlessly than cold milk.

Why are my pancakes dry? 

Dry pancakes are often a result of overmixing the batter, making them tough. Using too much flour or too little liquid can also lead to dryness, so be sure to measure carefully. Additionally, cooking pancakes on a heat that’s too high can cook the outside too quickly, leaving the inside dry. For moist, fluffy pancakes, mix the batter gently until just combined, keep the heat on medium-low, and avoid pressing down on them while cooking.

Nutritional values

Nutritional value, per

2757 Kcal

Fibre 5.3 gram fibers
Protein 48.1 %
Carbohydrates 422.3 %
Fat 95.6 gram

Serve your sweet pancakes with skyr for a tangy, creamy twist

Transform your sweet pancake experience by serving them with skyr instead of traditional ice cream. Skyr, a thick Icelandic yoghurt, offers delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pancakes and the rich chocolate elements in the dish. This not only broadens the flavour profile but also introduces a creamy, luxurious texture that makes each bite more enjoyable.

Explore alternative syrup flavours

To vary the flavours in this sweet pancake recipe, try experimenting with other citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit to make tangy variations with a refreshing twist. For a sweeter option, berry syrups made from strawberries or blueberries bring a delightful fruity note. Spiced syrups are another fantastic choice – think cinnamon, vanilla, or star anise – for added warmth and depth. These alternatives not only diversify your pancake toppings but also allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.

Can I store leftover batter?

Absolutely! Simply place the batter in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Before using it again, stir the batter gently. It may thicken slightly in the fridge, so stirring helps restore its consistency, ensuring your pancakes taste as good as fresh.

You can also freeze the batter in pancake-sized portions (approx. 50 ml each) by pouring it into a silicone muffin tray or ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the portions to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to cook, thaw only what you need in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then stir gently before cooking for perfectly fresh-tasting pancakes every time.

Innovative preparation techniques

To create smooth, lump-free pancake batter, start by sifting the flour, then mixing it with other dry ingredients before gradually adding the wet ones for even distribution. After mixing, let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes as described above.

For extra fluffiness, separate the eggs. Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter just before cooking. This adds air, giving the pancakes an extra fluffy, soft texture.

Enhancing presentation and garnishing techniques

To enhance the presentation of your pancakes, try layering them on a serving platter and adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a refined look. Fresh berries or edible flowers can bring vibrant colour and elegance, while a drizzle of syrup or melted chocolate in a zigzag pattern adds visual interest. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or thin citrus slices to accentuate the flavours and consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or skyr on the side for added texture and appeal.

For a well-rounded spread, serve with light and airy [Japanese pancakes](Триває отримання даних. Зачекайте кілька секунд, а потім знову спробуйте вирізати чи скопіювати.). This pairing offers a delightful contrast to the traditional texture and enhances the citrus notes with a smoky maple syrup-infused butter. Chocolate chip pancakes make another excellent addition, adding a touch of richness that balances the citrus flavours beautifully. For those who enjoy an extra zesty twist, consider pairing them with lemon pancakes to highlight and elevate the citrus elements of this recipe.

https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/sweet-pancake-with-chocolate-and-oranges/