Olive Oil Pancakes
Olive oil pancakes are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. They bring a rich, flavorful depth to your morning routine while being a breeze to whip up. The use of extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the taste but also adds a wonderful lightness to the pancakes, making them fluffy and delicious. Topped with fresh fruits, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, these pancakes promise to elevate your breakfast experience.
The Upside of Olive Oil Pancakes
Olive oil pancakes are not just delicious; they are also a healthier alternative to traditional pancakes made with butter. The benefits of incorporating olive oil into your pancake recipe include:
- Flavor: The rich, fruity notes of olive oil add a unique flavor to the pancakes.
- Health Benefits: Olive oil is packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, making these pancakes a more nutritious choice.
- Moisture: Olive oil helps keep the pancakes moist and tender, preventing them from drying out.
- Versatility: They can be dressed up with various toppings, making them suitable for any palate.
What to Buy
To make these delicious olive oil pancakes, here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (156g), sifted for a light texture.
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons (24g) for just the right amount of sweetness.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon to help the pancakes rise.
- Baking soda: ½ teaspoon to enhance browning.
- Fine sea salt: ½ teaspoon to balance flavors.
- Large egg: 1, to bind the ingredients together.
- Buttermilk: 1 cup (250g) for a tender crumb.
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons (42g) to impart flavor and moisture.
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon, finely grated, to brighten up the pancakes.
- Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon for added warmth and sweetness.
Tools of the Trade
Before you start cooking, gather the following tools to make your pancake-making experience smooth:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: To thoroughly mix the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Non-stick skillet or griddle: Ideal for cooking the pancakes evenly.
- Spatula: For flipping the pancakes with ease.
Olive Oil Pancakes Cooking Guide
Creating olive oil pancakes is easy and fun! Follow these simple steps to whip up your batch:
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and fine sea salt until well combined. This step ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and sugar.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the large egg. Then, add the buttermilk, extra virgin olive oil, finely grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Preheat the Skillet
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil if desired.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Flip and Finish
Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and keep warm while you repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your olive oil pancakes warm, topped with your favorite fruits, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy the delightful flavor and texture!
Better Choices & Swaps
If you want to customize or improve the nutritional profile of your olive oil pancakes, consider these swaps:
- Whole wheat flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Honey or maple syrup: Use these natural sweeteners in place of granulated sugar for a healthier option.
- Non-dairy buttermilk: Use almond milk or oat milk mixed with a splash of vinegar as a dairy-free alternative.
- Flax egg: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a plant-based version.
Testing Timeline
If you’re experimenting with your olive oil pancakes, keep this timeline in mind:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes for a delicious breakfast!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
Once you’ve made your olive oil pancakes, you may want to save some for later. Here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: If eating within a few hours, keep pancakes covered on the counter.
- Refrigerator: Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place parchment paper between pancakes and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil?
While you can use regular olive oil, extra virgin olive oil has a richer flavor and higher quality, which enhances the taste of your pancakes.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken up.
What toppings work best with olive oil pancakes?
These pancakes pair wonderfully with fresh fruits like berries or bananas, a drizzle of maple syrup, yogurt, or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love cooking in one pan, consider trying these ideas:
- Banana Pancakes: A classic with a fruity twist.
- Vegan Pancakes: Delicious and dairy-free!
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Pancakes: For a sweet indulgence.
- Blueberry Pancakes: Bursting with juicy berries.
In Closing
Olive oil pancakes are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. With their unique flavor and fluffy texture, they are sure to become a family favorite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – feel free to experiment with different toppings and ingredient swaps to make it your own. Enjoy the delightful experience of making and savoring these pancakes, and share them with loved ones to create memorable breakfast moments. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or during a busy weekday, olive oil pancakes are a simple pleasure that everyone can appreciate.
Olive Oil Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and fine sea salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the large egg. Then, add the buttermilk, extra virgin olive oil, finely grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil if desired.
- Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and keep warm while you repeat with the remaining batter.
- Serve your olive oil pancakes warm, topped with your favorite fruits, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy the delightful flavor and texture!
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
- Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
