I still remember my first real attempt at making pancakes. It was a lazy Sunday morning, and I wanted something simple yet special for breakfast. That was when I stumbled upon Delia Smith’s Basic Pancakes Recipe. Delia’s approach to cooking has always been so reassuring for me. She has a way of making even the simplest dishes feel achievable and delightful, and her pancake recipe was no exception.
These pancakes quickly became a staple in my kitchen. They are light, tender, and the perfect base for any topping you fancy, whether sweet or savory. What I love most about this recipe is how unfussy it is. No complicated ingredients, no fancy techniques, just good old-fashioned pancakes made exactly how they should be.
Over time, making these pancakes has become a cherished ritual, especially on weekends. I often whip them up when family or friends are staying over, and they are always a hit. Everyone can customize their pancakes with their favorite toppings, and it feels like a little breakfast party each time.
If you have ever felt nervous about making pancakes from scratch or if you are simply looking for a foolproof recipe that will never let you down, then Delia Smith’s Basic Pancakes Recipe is the one you need. Let me walk you through how to create these beautiful, golden pancakes, along with a few of my personal tips to make them absolutely perfect every time. Trust me, once you try them, you will never look at boxed pancake mixes the same way again.
What is Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe?
Delia Smith’s Basic Pancakes Recipe is a classic British-style pancake recipe that produces thin, tender pancakes similar to crêpes. They are simple to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients, and are perfect for sweet or savory toppings. These pancakes are traditionally enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon, but they are incredibly versatile.
Why you should try this recipe?
You should try Delia Smith’s Basic Pancakes Recipe because it is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. The batter is easy to make and forgiving, the pancakes cook quickly, and they are ideal for customizing with whatever toppings you love. Plus, they are perfect for everything from a casual breakfast to a special brunch spread.
Ingredients needed to make Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
-
110g plain flour
-
A pinch of salt
-
2 large eggs
-
200ml milk mixed with 75ml water
-
50g butter (melted) plus extra for cooking
Instruction to make Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
- First, sift the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and crack in the eggs. Begin whisking the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges.
- Slowly add the milk and water mixture, whisking continuously, until you have a smooth batter. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to catch any stray flour. Finally, whisk in the melted butter.
- Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes if you have time. This helps the flour fully absorb the liquid and gives you lighter pancakes.
- When you are ready to cook, heat a small amount of butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Pour in just enough batter to coat the base of the pan, swirling it around quickly.
- Cook for about 30 seconds to a minute until the pancake looks set and lightly golden underneath. Flip it carefully with a spatula or give the pan a confident toss if you are feeling brave. Cook the other side for about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate, and keep it warm while you cook the rest. Add more butter to the pan as needed.
Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
Ingredients
- 110 g plain flour
- A pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 200 ml milk mixed with 75ml water
- 50 g butter melted plus extra for cooking
Instructions
- First, sift the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and crack in the eggs. Begin whisking the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges.
- Slowly add the milk and water mixture, whisking continuously, until you have a smooth batter. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to catch any stray flour. Finally, whisk in the melted butter.
- Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes if you have time. This helps the flour fully absorb the liquid and gives you lighter pancakes.
- When you are ready to cook, heat a small amount of butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Pour in just enough batter to coat the base of the pan, swirling it around quickly.
- Cook for about 30 seconds to a minute until the pancake looks set and lightly golden underneath. Flip it carefully with a spatula or give the pan a confident toss if you are feeling brave. Cook the other side for about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate, and keep it warm while you cook the rest. Add more butter to the pan as needed.
Notes
- One tip I have learned is to make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the batter.
- If the pan is too cool, the pancakes can stick or cook unevenly.
- Another important trick is to keep the pancakes thin.
- Swirl the batter quickly as soon as you pour it into the pan to get that lovely delicate texture.
- And do not skip the resting time if you can help it; it really makes the pancakes lighter.
Nutritional value
Each basic pancake (without toppings) approximately provides:- Calories: 95 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 60mg
What goes well with Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
These pancakes go beautifully with a simple sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice, which is the classic British way. They are also fantastic with maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, Nutella, or even savory fillings like ham and cheese. Sometimes, I even enjoy them with just a dab of good-quality jam for a quick treat.
My tips to make the best Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
One tip I have learned is to make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the batter. If the pan is too cool, the pancakes can stick or cook unevenly. Another important trick is to keep the pancakes thin. Swirl the batter quickly as soon as you pour it into the pan to get that lovely delicate texture. And do not skip the resting time if you can help it; it really makes the pancakes lighter.
Easy variations of Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
For a sweeter batter, you can add a tablespoon of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. If you prefer savory pancakes, omit the sugar and add a pinch of pepper or some finely chopped herbs. You can also swap out a portion of the plain flour for whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber.
Best way to store Delia Smith Basic Pancakes Recipe
Cooked pancakes can be stacked between sheets of baking paper and wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm them in a frying pan or microwave. You can also freeze pancakes for up to one month. Thaw them at room temperature and reheat gently before serving.
Nutritional value
Each basic pancake (without toppings) approximately provides:
-
Calories: 95 kcal
-
Protein: 4g
-
Fat: 4g
-
Carbohydrates: 11g
-
Fiber: 0.5g
-
Sodium: 60mg
Toppings will, of course, add to these values depending on what you use.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge.
Can I freeze the pancakes?
Absolutely, they freeze well for up to one month.
What is the best pan to use?
A small non-stick frying pan works best for even cooking.
Can I make these pancakes thicker?
For thicker pancakes, simply use a little more batter in the pan.
Do I have to rest the batter?
Resting is recommended for best results, but you can skip it if you are short on time.
Conclusion
Every time I whip up a batch of Delia Smith’s Basic Pancakes, it feels like I am bringing a little bit of tradition into my kitchen. These pancakes are so simple, yet they never fail to impress. There is a comforting nostalgia in watching them bubble in the pan, flipping them with that satisfying little sizzle, and layering them up with favorite toppings. It is a ritual that never gets old for me.
I especially love how versatile they are. Whether I am in the mood for something sweet like strawberries and cream, or something savory like spinach and feta, these pancakes are the perfect canvas. They also bring back memories of Pancake Day celebrations when everyone would gather around the kitchen, waiting eagerly for their turn to catch a hot pancake straight from the pan.
Making pancakes from scratch might sound basic, but it is these simple recipes that often create the best memories. With Delia’s trusted method, there is no guesswork involved, and you can focus purely on enjoying the process and the delicious results.
If you have never tried making your own pancakes before or if you are looking for a reliable recipe that works every single time, I cannot recommend Delia Smith’s Basic Pancakes Recipe enough. It is a recipe that truly embodies the spirit of home cooking – easy, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do, and that they become a beloved part of your kitchen repertoire too.
