Who doesn't love a pancake? Sweet or savoury; sugar and lemon or chocolate. All delicious options! With Pancake Day fast approaching we thought we would get ready to make this tasty treat in the great outdoors. In previous years we have always made our pancakes on the hob, but this year shall be kicking it up a gear and using our new outdoor Pancake Pan!
Making pancakes over a campfire using a pancake pan is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the great outdoors. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can make pancakes that are just as fluffy and delicious as the ones you make at home, with the added thrill of doing it over an open flame!
First, you'll need a pancake pan that is specifically designed for use over a campfire. Do not use a standard pan: it will not end well! Our pan is made from specially designed carbon steel meaning that it is not only hardwearing and able to resist high temperatures, but is also light enough to manoeuvre easily. Long handles are also a necessity to make sure that you can remain a safe distance from the flames when cooking. Be sure to season your pan with oil before using it for the first time, this will prevent the pancakes from sticking to the pan.
Next, you'll need to gather your ingredients. You will need:
- 2 cups / 568g of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup / 250ml of milk
- 4 tablespoons of butter (divided)
So you've prepped your pan and got all your ingredients together….. it's finally time to get stuck in to the cooking!
Mix the dry ingredients together in one bowl (flour, baking powder, salt and sugar) and the wet ingredients together in another (eggs and milk). Then, add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If on a campsite you may find it easier to buy shop bought batter which just needs mixing with water. This is equally good and definitely easier if in the wilderness!
Once your batter is ready, heat your pan over the campfire or fire pit. You'll know the pan is hot enough when a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface. Add a little bit of butter (about 1 tablespoon) to the pan and use a ladle to pour the batter onto the pan. Be sure to pour the batter in the middle of the pan to ensure even cooking.
Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes on one side, or until bubbles start to appear on the surface. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side. Repeat this process until all the batter is used up, adding butter to the pan as needed.
And that's it! Serve your pancakes hot with your favourite toppings such as syrup, butter, or berries. Or as my boys love, peanut butter, chocolate and marshmallows!
Enjoy the delicious taste of campfire pancakes with your family and friends on your next camping trip or like us, round the fire pit in the garden this Pancake Day!