Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Recipe

  • May 30, 2025

Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes offer a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, providing a light, fluffy texture and irresistible taste that will leave you craving more with every bite. Perfect for a weekend treat or special occasion, they bring joy and warmth to your morning routine.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes

Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes are a lighter and fluffier version of the classic American-style pancake. Known for their thick texture and soft, airy consistency, they are perfect for stacking and pairing with your favorite toppings.

The recipe is designed to be simple yet decadent, combining basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk to create a batter that puffs up beautifully when cooked. What sets Jamie Oliver’s version apart is his approach to creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture, ensuring each pancake is soft, moist, and indulgent.

These pancakes are slightly thicker than crepes but less dense than traditional British pancakes. They are often served in a stack, making them an ideal dish for brunches, family breakfasts, or just as a fun treat. Topped with anything from fresh berries and whipped cream to maple syrup and crispy bacon, Jamie’s pancakes allow for a creative and customizable dining experience.

Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver american pancakes

To make Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  1. Plain flour (250g) – The base of the pancake batter, providing the necessary structure and texture.
  2. Baking powder (2 tsp) – This helps the pancakes rise, creating a fluffy, light texture.
  3. Sugar (2 tbsp) – Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory toppings you might choose.
  4. Salt (a pinch) – Enhances the overall flavor and brings out the sweetness.
  5. Milk (300ml) – The liquid that helps create a smooth batter and softens the texture of the pancakes.
  6. Eggs (2 large) – Eggs help bind the ingredients together, contributing to the structure and texture of the pancakes.
  7. Butter (for frying) – Ensures the pancakes cook evenly and prevents sticking while giving them a slightly rich flavor.

Optional: You can also add vanilla extract or cinnamon for extra flavor if desired.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes, you will need:

  1. Mixing bowl – For combining the dry ingredients and mixing the batter.
  2. Whisk – To ensure the batter is smooth and lump-free.
  3. Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure the right proportions of ingredients.
  4. Non-stick frying pan or griddle – A flat surface to cook your pancakes evenly.
  5. Spatula – To flip the pancakes without damaging them.
  6. Ladle or small cup – For pouring the batter onto the hot pan in even portions.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes?

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk these together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
  2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them lightly. Add the milk and whisk to combine.
  3. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and gently stir them together with a whisk or spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.
  4. Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat and add a small knob of butter. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, it’s time to start cooking.
  5. Cook the Pancakes: Use a ladle or small cup to pour a small amount of batter onto the pan, forming round pancakes. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface of the pancake. Flip the pancake carefully using a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Serve: Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Some great options include maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.

Expert Tips

  1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the pancake batter can result in dense, tough pancakes. Stir until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined, and some lumps remain.
  2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: If possible, let the milk and eggs come to room temperature before mixing them with the dry ingredients. This will create a smoother batter and more evenly cooked pancakes.
  3. Control the Heat: Ensure your pan is at the right temperature. Too hot, and the pancakes will burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Too cool, and they will take too long to cook and become tough.
  4. Let the Batter Rest: Allowing the batter to rest for a few minutes before cooking can help create fluffier pancakes. The baking powder will have time to activate and create more air bubbles.
  5. Use a Ladle for Consistency: To ensure that all your pancakes are the same size, use a ladle or small measuring cup to pour the batter onto the pan. This helps with even cooking and presentation.

Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes offer an irresistible combination of fluffiness and flavor, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or brunch. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the method ensures that anyone, whether a novice or an experienced cook, can make these delightful pancakes.

By following the steps and expert tips, you’ll create a batch of pancakes that are light, airy, and perfectly golden brown every time. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious and indulgent start to your day!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes

jamie oliver american pancakes

Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes are a wonderfully versatile base for various creative adaptations, allowing you to personalize them based on your tastes, dietary restrictions, or available ingredients. Here are some easy and delicious variations you can try:

  1. Banana Pancakes:
    To make your pancakes extra moist and naturally sweet, incorporate ripe mashed bananas into the batter. For every 1 cup of flour, mash one ripe banana and stir it into the mixture. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. This will result in soft, fluffy pancakes with a mild sweetness, perfect for breakfast.

  2. Berry-Infused Pancakes:
    Add a burst of freshness by folding in your favorite berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries into the batter. For a twist, you can also layer fresh berries between pancakes as you stack them, so every bite is bursting with flavor.

  3. Vegan Pancakes:
    For a plant-based variation, you can easily swap the eggs and milk with dairy-free alternatives. Use almond milk or oat milk and substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken). You can also add a tablespoon of coconut oil to keep the pancakes rich and moist.

  4. Chocolate Chip Pancakes:
    For a decadent twist, fold in some chocolate chips or chunks into the batter just before cooking. The chocolate melts into gooey pockets, adding a rich, indulgent touch. You can even try dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

  5. Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes:
    For a cozy, spice-infused breakfast, mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Once you pour the pancake batter onto the pan, use a spoon to drizzle the cinnamon-sugar mixture in a swirl pattern. As the pancakes cook, you’ll get a cinnamon-infused flavor throughout.

  6. Oatmeal Pancakes:
    If you’re looking for a hearty, more filling pancake, add a half-cup of ground oats or oatmeal to the batter. This will not only give the pancakes a nutty flavor and chewy texture but also add more fiber to your meal.

These variations allow you to get creative with your pancakes, ensuring they suit your taste and dietary needs while still retaining the fluffy, comforting essence of Jamie Oliver’s original recipe.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftover American pancakes properly ensures that they retain their fluffiness and flavor for later use. Here are some best practices for storing them:

  1. Allow Pancakes to Cool:
    Before storing, allow your pancakes to cool completely to prevent condensation. If you place hot pancakes into storage containers, the moisture can make them soggy.

  2. Refrigerating Leftovers:
    To store pancakes for a short period (1-2 days), place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. You can stack the pancakes with a piece of parchment paper in between to prevent them from sticking together. Store the container in the refrigerator.

  3. Freezing Pancakes:
    If you want to store your pancakes for a longer period (up to 2 months), freezing is a great option. Lay the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, stack the pancakes with parchment paper between them and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents the pancakes from sticking together.

  4. Reheating:
    To reheat refrigerated pancakes, simply warm them up in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a toaster for an extra crispy finish. For frozen pancakes, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave them on a low setting for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they’re heated through. You can also warm them up on a skillet for a few minutes on each side for a crispy exterior.

By following these simple tips, your leftover pancakes will stay fresh, moist, and delicious when reheated.

What Goes Well With American Pancakes?

While pancakes are delicious on their own, they shine even brighter when paired with the right toppings and sides. Here are some ideas for what goes well with American pancakes:

  1. Maple Syrup & Butter:
    The classic combo, maple syrup and butter, never disappoints. The richness of the butter complements the sweet syrup, making each bite indulgent. For added flavor, you can try cinnamon butter or flavored syrups, like blueberry or strawberry.

  2. Fresh Fruits:
    Fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries pair wonderfully with pancakes. They not only add a refreshing, fruity contrast but also brighten up the dish with vibrant colors. You can serve them fresh, or sauté the fruits in a bit of butter and cinnamon for a warm topping.

  3. Whipped Cream:
    Light and fluffy whipped cream is a decadent topping that pairs beautifully with pancakes. You can make your own or buy pre-made cream. For extra flavor, try adding vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream.

  4. Bacon or Sausages:
    If you’re looking to add some savory elements, crispy bacon or sausages make the perfect pairing with pancakes. The salty, savory flavors contrast with the sweetness of the pancakes, creating a satisfying balance.

  5. Nut Butters:
    Almond butter, peanut butter, or hazelnut spread offer a creamy, nutty element to your pancakes. These spreads add a touch of protein and flavor depth that complements the soft texture of the pancakes.

  6. Yogurt:
    For a lighter, tangy addition, a dollop of Greek yogurt or flavored yogurt provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of pancakes. You can also drizzle honey or agave syrup on top for additional sweetness.

  7. Nuts and Seeds:
    Chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds, or even a sprinkle of chia seeds or flaxseeds, add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. These ingredients can also elevate the nutritional value of your meal.

  8. Ice Cream:
    If you’re in the mood for a dessert-style breakfast, ice cream is a fun and indulgent topping. Whether you opt for vanilla, chocolate, or fruit sorbet, a scoop of ice cream can transform your pancakes into a decadent treat.

Conclusion

American pancakes, especially when prepared using Jamie Oliver’s easy recipe, are incredibly versatile and adaptable. Whether you prefer them with a classic drizzle of syrup or topped with fresh fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips, the possibilities are endless.

Furthermore, by storing your pancakes properly, you can enjoy them again later without sacrificing their delightful fluffiness. With the right sides and toppings, pancakes can easily turn into a decadent breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Get creative and make each pancake experience uniquely your own!.

FAQs

What Are The Ingredients Required For Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes?

The ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes include flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, eggs, milk, and butter. Additionally, you can use vanilla extract for added flavor and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Fluffy?

To make Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes fluffy, ensure you sift the flour and baking powder together to aerate the mixture. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the pancakes dense. The batter should have a lumpy texture.

Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead Of Plain Flour In Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for plain flour in Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes, but the texture and flavor may change slightly. Whole wheat flour will make the pancakes a bit denser and give them a nuttier taste.

How Do I Know When Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Are Ready To Flip?

The pancakes are ready to flip when you start seeing small bubbles on the surface, and the edges look set. Once this happens, carefully flip them over with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the pancakes ahead of time. Cook them, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a toaster or microwave when ready to serve.

What Toppings Work Well With Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes?

Popular toppings for Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes include fresh berries, maple syrup, whipped cream, banana slices, or a drizzle of honey. You can also add chocolate chips or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Is It Necessary To Use Butter In Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Recipe?

Butter adds richness and flavor to Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes, but you can substitute it with oil or a dairy-free option like coconut oil if you prefer. The key is to ensure the batter has enough fat for a soft and tender texture.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes Gluten-free?

To make Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes gluten-free, replace the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that is designed for baking to get the best texture and consistency in the pancakes.

Can I Add Fruit To The Batter Of Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes?

Yes, you can add fruit such as blueberries, chopped bananas, or raspberries to the batter for extra flavor. Just fold the fruit into the batter gently so it doesn’t break up, and cook as usual.

What Type Of Pan Is Best For Cooking Jamie Oliver’s American Pancakes?

A non-stick frying pan or griddle is ideal for cooking Jamie Oliver’s American pancakes. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to flip without sticking. Make sure the pan is preheated before adding the batter.