Traditional Dutch Pancakes – A National Treasure

When it comes to comfort food, few things in the Netherlands are as beloved as traditional Dutch pancakes. From the large, savory pannenkoeken to the sweet, bite-sized poffertjes, these pancakes are a staple of Dutch cuisine and a must-try when visiting the country. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or a sweet treat, Dutch pancakes are sure to satisfy every craving. Let’s dive into the two most iconic types of Dutch pancakes and how you can make them at home.

1. Pannenkoeken (Dutch Pancakes)

Pannenkoeken are the Dutch equivalent of a large, thin pancake, often served as a main dish. Unlike the American-style pancakes, which are small and fluffy, pannenkoeken are more similar to French crêpes, but with a thicker texture. They are typically served with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savory, making them incredibly versatile.

Some of the most popular toppings for pannenkoeken include bacon, apples, cheese, mushrooms, or syrup. The Dutch often eat them with powdered sugar or fruit, and you can even find specialty pannenkoeken houses offering elaborate combinations of toppings. They are traditionally enjoyed during lunch or dinner, but many people indulge in them as a weekend breakfast or dessert.

How to Make Pannenkoeken at Home:

To make traditional Dutch pannenkoeken, you’ll need simple ingredients: flour, milk, eggs, a pinch of salt, and a little butter for cooking. The batter is poured into a hot, lightly greased frying pan, and cooked until golden on each side. You can top them with whatever your heart desires—cheese and ham for a savory option, or strawberries and whipped cream for a sweet treat.

Here’s a quick recipe:

• 1 cup of flour
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 egg
• Pinch of salt
• Butter for frying
• Toppings of your choice

Mix the ingredients into a smooth batter and cook the pancakes on medium heat, flipping when the edges start to lift.

2. Poffertjes (Dutch Mini Pancakes)

Poffertjes are small, fluffy, and sweet pancakes that are typically served as a dessert or snack. These bite-sized treats are made using a special batter that’s leavened with yeast, giving them a light, airy texture. They are usually cooked in a poffertjes pan, a griddle with several small, round indentations that help create their signature shape.

Once cooked, poffertjes are typically dusted with powdered sugar and served with a pat of butter. They are incredibly popular at fairs, festivals, and Christmas markets, where they are often served fresh and warm.

How to Make Poffertjes at Home:

While you might need a special poffertjes pan to get the perfect shape, you can still make these fluffy mini pancakes at home using a regular frying pan. The key to their soft, airy texture is the yeast in the batter.

Here’s a basic recipe for poffertjes:

• 2 cups of flour
• 1 packet of dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups of milk
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 2 eggs
• Butter and powdered sugar for serving

Start by heating the milk and mixing it with the yeast to activate it. Then, whisk in the flour, sugar, and eggs to form a smooth batter. Let it rise for an hour before spooning small amounts of the batter into your pan. Flip them when bubbles start to form, and cook until golden brown. Serve with butter and a dusting of powdered sugar.