This great, easy recipe feels like a treat whenever you make it. They’re also convenient for a large group breakfast since you can make the dry and liquid components and mix them when needed. One thing not to do is mix the batter too far ahead. The baking soda and tartar will lose their leavening ability if left for too long.
So, what makes them a Scotch Pancake? The Scotch Pancake has thicker batter than the American version, so you end up with a thicker pancake. They are also known as “Drop Scones” in the UK because of the thicker batter. You hold a spoon of batter that slowly drops into the pan.
They are a delicious breakfast pancake that is quick and easy to make. You can even get the kids on the job and take the morning off.
Also, the sugar in the batter gives them a sweetness that pairs well with salty, savoury sides like bacon or sausage. My mouth is watering already.
Scotch Pancake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Spoons
- Spatula Turner
Ingredients
- 400 grams Flour, all-purpose
- 2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 3 teaspoon Cream of tartar
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 2 each Eggs, large
- 50 grams Sugar, granulated or super fine
- 350 ml Whole Milk
- 2 tablespoon Melted butter, unsalted
- Oil for cooking, As needed
Method
- Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Separately, combine the liquid ingredients and beat until frothy.
- Combine the liquid with the dry and mix until it is all combined, but don’t over mix.
- Heat a little oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Pour sufficient batter into skillet to reach the desired size of your pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form in the batter and the under side is brown (similar to dark caramel colour).
- Flip over and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve with your favourite accompaniments, whether sweet or savoury.
- All stoves are different, so don’t be afraid to experiment. I usually start cooking at a higher temperature and turn it down as the pan heats up.
- Experiment with additions to the batter. I enjoy adding citrus zest or ground spices to add another flavour note. It sounds odd, but a little Chinese 5 Spice is a great addition.
- Use a non-stick pan or griddle to avoid sticking and achieve that perfectly golden-brown surface.
- Preheat your pan or griddle before adding the pancake batter to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Use a ladle or measuring cup to portion out the batter for each pancake, as this helps ensure that they are all the same size and cook evenly.
- Only flip the pancakes once the surface is covered with bubbles and the edges begin to look set. This allows for even cooking and a fluffy, light texture.
- If you want to add some extra flavour or texture to your pancakes, consider mixing in some fresh berries or chocolate chips to the batter before cooking
- For a Gluten free option substitute the all purpose flour with your choice of Gluten free flour
Scotch Pancake Recipe: FAQ
How Long Will Pancakes Last In The Fridge?
Cooked pancakes can typically last 3-4 days if stored properly. To maximize their shelf life, it’s important to cool them down quickly after cooking and store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic or foil before refrigerating. However, I find that these pancakes get eaten pretty quickly.
Can I Freeze Pancakes?
Pancakes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. So you can make extra and then defrost them when you need a delicious pancake treat. Simply pop them in the microwave or oven until they are warmed through. To make it easy to remove just one or two pancakes from the freezer, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to separate them and put them into a freezer bag. You should be able to pull one pancake away, one at a time.
Scotch Pancakes Recipe: History
“Scotch pancakes,” also known as Scottish pancakes or drop scones, have a rich and interesting background. They are a traditional Scottish treat that differs from American pancakes in several ways.
- Origin and Evolution: The origin of Scotch pancakes can be traced back to the early days of oatcakes, made from a simple batter of oats and water cooked on a griddle. Over time, with the introduction of baking powder and refined flours, these evolved into the softer, fluffier Scotch pancakes we know today.
- Ingredients and Preparation: Traditional Scotch pancakes are made with flour, eggs, sugar, milk, and a leavening agent like baking powder. Unlike the thinner, larger American-style pancakes, this results in a small, thick pancake. They are typically cooked on a griddle or a heavy frying pan.
- Cultural Significance: Scotch pancakes have been a staple in Scottish households for centuries, often enjoyed at tea time or as a breakfast item. They are a part of Scottish culinary tradition and are often associated with comfort and homeliness.
- Regional Variations: While the basic recipe for Scotch pancakes is fairly standard, regional variations exist in Scotland, with some adding different ingredients like raisins or serving them with various toppings like jam, butter, or honey.
- Popularity Beyond Scotland: The popularity of Scotch pancakes has spread beyond Scotland, and they are enjoyed in various forms in different parts of the United Kingdom and worldwide. They are often compared to other small pancakes like the American silver dollar pancakes or Russian blinis.
In summary, Scotch pancakes are a beloved traditional Scottish food item, rich in history and cultural significance, and have evolved over time from simple oatcakes to the more refined and delicious treat enjoyed today.
