There’s nothing quite like pancakes for dinner, and that’s the name of the game on Pancake Day. Whether you lean towards the indulgent, fluffy American style or traditional, lighter European ones, the toppings you choose can make your Shrove Tuesday meal special for everyone. Here are a few ideas to take your pancake game to the next level (and don’t worry, we’ve included batter recipes and vegan alternatives).

Basic Pancake Day Batter Recipe

Ingredients:
– 200g plain flour
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 300ml milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Spoon the batter onto the pan and cook until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until golden brown.

Vegan Pancake Day Batter Recipe

Ingredients:
– 200g self-raising flour
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 300ml plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour, sugar, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the plant-based milk and vegetable oil.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until well combined.
4. Follow the same cooking instructions as the basic pancake recipe.

Now that you have your basic pancake recipe, let’s explore some tantalising toppings.

Classic Lemon and Sugar

This one doesn’t need much explanation! Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your pancakes and sprinkle with a light dusting of sugar. This timeless combination brings a zesty and sweet touch to your Pancake Day celebration. To give it some extra pizzazz, try swapping the sugar for golden syrup.

Berry Bliss

Top your pancakes with a generous handful of mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. For an extra indulgence, drizzle some maple syrup or honey over the berries.

Chocolate Lover’s Dream

For a mouthwatering Shrove Tuesday treat, melt some chocolate chips and pour them over your stack of pancakes. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a truly decadent treat. Use vegan chocolate chips and plant-based whipping cream (both of which are widely available) for a vegan alternative. Remember, balance is everything and, if you’re taking care of your fitness, a little foodie decadence occasionally is fine.

Tropical Paradise

Combine slices of fresh pineapple, mango, and kiwi for a tropical twist. Finish it off with a dollop of coconut dairy or non-dairy yoghurt and a sprinkle of desiccated coconut.

Maple Nut Delight

Toast chopped pecans and hazelnuts and sprinkle them generously over your pancakes. Finish with a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a deliciously nutty and sweet experience.

These topping ideas are just the beginning; get creative and mix and match to discover your perfect pancake combination. Whether you prefer Shrove Tuesday classics or want to explore new flavours, pancakes are the perfect canvas for a lip-licking celebration.

*Most golden syrup is classed as vegan, as is most maple syrup. Included in the article are links to plant-based or dairy-free products that are widely available in UK supermarkets.