If you’ve ever wanted to whip up a delightfully fluffy and slightly sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a cozy snack, this Pikelets Recipe is calling your name. These charming little pancakes are smaller and thicker than your usual flapjacks, delivering tender bites that soak up butter and jam beautifully. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, pikelets have a wonderful Australian and British heritage that shines through in every mouthful, making them a favorite for every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pikelets Recipe truly comes down to a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together to create the perfect texture and flavor. Each component plays a key role, from the fluffy lightness of the baking powder to the sweet warmth of vanilla extract.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and softness to every pikelet.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: The secret to that light and fluffy rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness without overpowering.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness to the batter.
- 3/4 cup milk: Creates the perfect batter consistency and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and subtle flavor.
- Butter or oil for cooking: Ensures a golden, lightly crisp exterior on each pikelet.
How to Make Pikelets Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed, which will give your pikelets that perfect lift.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and vanilla extract until combined. Mixing these separately helps you achieve a smooth batter when joined with the dry mix.
Step 3: Combine to Make Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until you have a smooth, thick batter with no lumps. The consistency here is key — it should be thick enough to hold shape on the skillet but still easy to drop by spoonfuls.
Step 4: Heat and Grease the Pan
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. A lightly buttery base ensures your pikelets cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden crust.
Step 5: Cook the Pikelets
Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of batter onto the skillet, leaving a little space between each one. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until they are golden and cooked through.
Step 6: Keep Warm and Repeat
Remove the cooked pikelets and keep them warm while you repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter. This way, you serve them fresh and pleasantly warm.
How to Serve Pikelets Recipe
Garnishes
Pikelets are fantastic canvases for all sorts of tempting toppings. Classic butter melting softly on top is always a winner, but layering on some fruity jam, a drizzle of honey, whipped cream, or fresh berries takes them to a whole new level. Each garnish adds flavor contrast and a touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Though they shine beautifully on their own, pikelets also pair wonderfully with sides like crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad. For a comforting treat, try serving with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, echoing their traditional teatime roots.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Stack your pikelets like mini towers, layering jam and cream in between each one for a stunning display. You can even cut them into bite-sized shapes for party platters or skewered mini pikelet stacks with berries for fun finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover pikelets can be cooled completely then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This makes them a convenient snack or quick breakfast option on busy mornings.
Freezing
To enjoy your Pikelets Recipe anytime, freeze cooled pikelets in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to one month, so you always have a batch ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat your pikelets gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a toaster for a crispier finish. Avoid overheating to maintain their fluffy texture and delicious flavor.
FAQs
What’s the difference between pikelets and pancakes?
Pikelets are smaller and slightly thicker than traditional pancakes, giving them a soft, tender texture that’s perfect for tea and snacks. Their size makes them ideal for layering or topping with a variety of spreads and garnishes.
Can I make this Pikelets Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure the baking powder you use is gluten-free as well for best results.
Is it necessary to use vanilla extract?
While vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor, it’s not essential. You can omit it or replace it with a splash of almond extract or citrus zest for a different twist.
How do I know when to flip the pikelets?
You’ll see small bubbles forming on the surface of the batter, and the edges will start to look set and slightly dry. This signals that it’s time to flip for even, golden cooking on the other side.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking as the ingredients may separate slightly.
Final Thoughts
Now you’ve got everything you need to create fluffy, delightful pikelets that will delight everyone at the table. This Pikelets Recipe is a keeper — easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and utterly delicious. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to some homemade comfort today. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without this charming little snack!
Print
Pikelets Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 pikelets 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pikelets are small, thick pancakes popular in Australia and Britain, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Light and fluffy, they are easy to prepare and cook quickly on the stovetop. These delightful treats can be enjoyed warm or cold with toppings like butter, jam, honey, or fresh fruit, making them a versatile and comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cooking
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until evenly combined.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and vanilla extract thoroughly to blend.
- Combine Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk together until you achieve a smooth, thick batter without lumps.
- Heat Skillet: Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pikelets: Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of batter onto the heated skillet, leaving space between each. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Keep Warm and Repeat: Remove cooked pikelets and keep them warm. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter.
- Serve: Serve pikelets warm or cooled with your choice of toppings such as butter, jam, honey, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Pikelets are smaller and thicker than regular pancakes and are ideal for tea time or snacks.
- You can prepare pikelets ahead of time and gently reheat them in the microwave or toaster without losing texture or flavor.
- Feel free to customize toppings to suit your preferences—sweet or savory.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast or Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Australian / British
