Pancakes are loved all over the world, but every country seems to have its own unique way of making and serving them. From French crêpes to American pancakes stacked high with syrup, there is something comforting about a plate of freshly made pancakes. This is a South African Pancake Recipe
Growing up in South Africa, pancakes were always a special treat. Whether they were served at school fundraisers, church bazaars, family gatherings, or simply as a quick dinner on a cold evening, they always brought a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Traditionally, South African pancakes are thin, soft, and perfect for rolling up with your favourite sweet or savoury fillings.
This particular pancake recipe has become my favourite over the years. It was originally inspired by a recipe from Sarie Kos, which I have tweaked slightly to suit my own taste and baking style. The result is a reliable, easy-to-make batter that produces delicious thin pancakes every time.
Ironically, I only got this far writing the post before the electricity decided to disappear! What was meant to be a normal evening of making pancakes quickly turned into a romantic candlelit cooking session. Luckily, pancakes are one of the easiest meals to prepare on a gas cooker, so dinner plans continued uninterrupted.
There is something wonderfully comforting about standing in a warm kitchen, listening to the gentle sizzle of pancake batter in the pan while candlelight flickers nearby. It reminded me that some of the simplest meals often create the best memories.
Easy South African Pancake Recipe
If you’re looking for a traditional South African pancake recipe that’s easy to make and uses simple pantry ingredients, this recipe is for you. These thin pancakes are perfect served with cinnamon sugar, syrup, lemon juice, or your favourite savoury filling.
After allowing the batter to rest, heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Pour enough batter into the pan to create a thin, even layer. Once small bubbles begin to form on the surface and the edges start lifting slightly, carefully flip the pancake and cook the other side until lightly golden.
The resting time is one of the most important steps in this recipe. It allows the flour to absorb the liquid properly and helps create smooth, tender pancakes that are easy to flip and roll.
This recipe makes approximately 10 large pancakes, depending on the size of your pan.
One of the things I love most about pancakes is their versatility. They can be enjoyed sweet or savoury, making them suitable for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even dessert.
For a traditional South African pancake experience, sprinkle each warm pancake generously with cinnamon sugar before rolling it up. The heat melts the sugar slightly and creates the most delicious sweet filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before rolling.
I often enjoy them with classic cinnamon sugar. We also regularly make savoury fillings for dinner. A creamy chicken and mushroom filling, curried mince, or spinach and cheese filling can easily transform simple pancakes into a satisfying family meal.
Easy South African Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 ml cake flour all-purpose flour
- 10 ml baking powder
- 2 ml salt
- 2 large eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 350 ml water
- 25 ml vegetable oil
- 12.5 ml vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl or blender.
- Add the eggs, milk, water, oil, and vinegar or lemon juice.
- Blend or whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Cover the batter and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a lightly oiled frying pan over medium heat.
- Pour enough batter into the pan to form a thin layer, tilting the pan if necessary to spread it evenly.
- Cook until small bubbles appear on the surface and the edges begin to lift slightly.
- Flip the pancake and cook for another 30 to 60 seconds until lightly golden.
- Repeat with the remaining batter.
Notes
I’ll be sharing one of my favourite savoury pancake filling recipes soon, so keep an eye out for that post.
Do you prefer your pancakes sweet or savoury? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your family’s favourite pancake traditions and toppings.
Happy pancake baking!
