The entire internet has gone absolutely crazy for these Japanese pancakes! They are so light, airy and tasty! A Japanese cloud pancake just became a staple at our house, so get out your egg whites and let’s give breakfast around the world a try!
Japanese cloud pancakes are fluffy and decadent, we are going to walk you through each step of making them. They require a little extra care and attention than traditional American buttermilk pancakes. They are worth every bit of effort though! Trust me on that!
What is a Japanese Cloud Pancake?
Japanese cloud pancakes, also known as soufflé pancakes, are delicate cottony pancakes. They are made by folding whipped egg whites into pancake batter so when they cook, they puff up like a soufflé.
Pancake Molds
I’ve decided that while the authentic pancake clearly uses a ring mold, I just do not have the time or mental capacity to worry about buying molds, spraying molds, filling molds AND cleaning molds. So! Here’s my tricky solution and should you wish to use molds, these seem to be the best buy:
Instead, the key is to uses a nonstick pan that has a lid that will securely fit on the pan and add the batter in layers, allowing the first to begin to cook and then dolloping more on top. I know, I know, but it’s still easier for me than a mold. I’ll go into all the details below.
What Do I Need to Make Japanese Pancakes
Even though these are Japanese, you don’t need any exotic ingredients. In fact, you’ll probably have most of the ingredients in house already, and if not, everything can be found at your standard grocery store. Here is your ingredients list:
- Egg Yolk: adds structure and richness to the pancakes
- Sugar: adds sweetness
- Whole Milk: The milk must be whole milk. The fattier milk makes for a better souffle.
- Cake Flour: gives the pancakes a lighter texture then all purpose flour
- Baking Powder: acts as a leavening agent for the pancakes to give them some lift
- Vanilla Extract: adds flavor
For the Egg Whites
- Egg Whites: adds rise and fluffiness to the pancakes
- Cream of Tartar: helps stabilize the egg whites so they hold their fluffiness
- Sugar: adds sweetness
- Water: used to help cook the pancakes by adding steam
The measurements for all these ingredients can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
How to Make Japanese Cloud Pancakes
Here is your step by step guide to making Japanese cloud pancakes without a mold…
- Prepare batter by whisking the yolk and sugar in a large bowl until pale and then slowly whis