Griddle cakes are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack. This recipe provides a simple and delightful way to make griddle cakes that are fluffy, flavorful, and packed with cherries and apricots. The batter is made by combining plain flour, baking powder, caster sugar, egg yolks, melted butter, and milk. The chopped cherries and apricots are folded into the batter, adding bursts of fruity goodness. The egg whites are whisked until stiff and folded into the batter to create light and airy griddle cakes. These cakes are cooked on a griddle or flat cast-iron grill pan until golden on both sides. Serve them hot with warmed honey or golden syrup for a touch of sweetness. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a delightful snack, these griddle cakes are sure to be a hit.
INGREDIENTS:
- 125g/4oz plain flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 tablespoons caster sugar
- 2 eggs, separated
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 125ml/4fl oz milk
- 50g/2oz pitted fresh cherries, chopped
- 50g/2oz ready-to-eat dried apricots, chopped
- Clear honey or golden syrup, gently warmed, to serve
PREPARATIONS:
- Sift the plain flour, baking powder, and caster sugar together into a bowl. Make a well in the center.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, melted butter, and milk. Pour this mixture into the well of the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Fold the chopped cherries and apricots into the batter, distributing them evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff and dry peaks form.
- Carefully fold the whisked egg whites into the batter, ensuring they are fully incorporated.
- Heat a griddle or flat cast-iron grill pan until it reaches a medium-hot temperature. Brush it with a little melted butter.
- Spoon small portions of the batter onto the griddle, allowing them to spread slightly. Cook until the top of the griddle cakes is set and bubbles appear, and the underside is golden brown. Then, carefully flip them over and cook the other side until golden.
- Serve the griddle cakes hot, drizzled with warmed honey or golden syrup.
YIELD: Serves 4-8 (depending on the size of the griddle cakes)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Be cautious when flipping the griddle cakes to avoid any accidents. Use a spatula or pancake turner to carefully turn them over.
- Adjust the cooking time and heat level as needed to ensure the griddle cakes are cooked through and golden on both sides.
- If desired, keep the cooked griddle cakes warm in a low oven while preparing the remaining batter.
- Experiment with different fruits and additions, such as blueberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips, to customize your griddle cakes.
TIPS:
- To achieve fluffy griddle cakes, avoid overmixing the batter. Stir until just combined, leaving some lumps.
- Serve the griddle cakes with additional fresh fruits, such as sliced bananas or berries, for a vibrant and nutritious twist.
- Enhance the flavor of the griddle cakes by adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the batter.
- Consider using a non-stick griddle or pan to ensure easy flipping and release of the griddle cakes.
- Dust the finished griddle cakes with powdered sugar for a visually appealing touch before drizzling them with honey or golden syrup.
Griddle cakes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack. By following this simple recipe, you can create fluffy and flavorful griddle cakes filled with cherries and apricots. The batter is made by combining plain flour, baking powder, caster sugar, egg yolks, melted butter, and milk. The chopped cherries and apricots are folded into the batter, adding bursts of fruity goodness. Whisked egg whites are then carefully folded in to create light and airy griddle cakes.
Cooked on a griddle or flat cast-iron grill pan until golden on both sides, these griddle cakes are ready to be served hot. Drizzle them with warmed honey or golden syrup for a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the fruity flavors.
Griddle cakes are a versatile treat that can be customized to your liking. Consider adding additional fresh fruits, such as sliced bananas or berries, for extra freshness and vibrancy. You can also experiment with different spices or extracts to enhance the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack, these griddle cakes are sure to please your taste buds. The combination of fluffy texture, fruity bursts, and sweet drizzle makes them a perfect treat any time of day.
