Pancakes are one of the most beloved and versatile dishes across the globe. Whether thin and delicate, thick and fluffy, sweet or savoury, nearly every culture has its own version of this simple yet satisfying treat. From breakfast to dinner and even dessert, pancakes come in many forms, each with its own unique twist.

The beauty of pancakes lies in their simplicity—just a few basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk can create endless variations. Their origins trace back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations cooking batter on hot stones. Today, every country has developed its own take on this dish, adapting it to local flavours and traditions.

Cottage Cheese Pancakes Recipe by Hiroko Liston
Many years ago, I learned how to cook Macedonian style Pancake from my Macedonian neighbour. I was surprised as it was quite different from the Pancakes that I usually cook. She used Greek style Yoghurt to make thick batter and a lot of Oil to fry it. Today I used Cottage Cheese instead of Yoghurt j…
CookpadHiroko Liston

Pancakes around the World

French Crêpes – Paper-thin pancakes, often filled with chocolate, jam, or ham and cheese.

Crepes Recipe by Kayden
I like Crepes
CookpadKayden

American Pancakes – Thick, fluffy stacks typically served with butter and maple syrup.

American Pancakes - my go to recipe Recipe by In cucina con Sofia
This is my go to recipe slightly adapted using less baking powder. Add some cinnamon for a different flavour and serve with your favourite topping. Here I used maple candied bacon 🥓
CookpadIn cucina con Sofia

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes – Extra airy, jiggly pancakes that feel like eating a cloud.

Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe by Bianca Mwale
Second attempt at Japanese fluffy pancakes and got them perfect this time after adding one more egg yolk to the initial recipe used. I cannot be prouder!
CookpadBianca Mwale


Moroccan Baghrir – Also known as "thousand-hole pancakes," these spongy pancakes soak up honey and butter beautifully.

Baghrir - Moroccan Semolina Pancakes Recipe by Gaytree Maharaj
Pancakes are my kids’ ultimate favorite breakfast, so I thought I would treat them, after all, they are on vacation. Little did they know I sneaked Semolina (Cream of Wheat) into their pancakes! Shhhh! They loved it! These Moroccan pancakes are cooked only on one side so the bubbles on the top turn …
CookpadGaytree Maharaj

Dutch Poffertjes – Small, puffed-up pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter.

Poffertjes Recipe by Nealey cooks
Mini Dutch Pancakes, sweet, cake like and easy! Traditional snack especially at Christmas. Perfect for toddlers and this recipe is made with one egg so you don’t have too much. I like them with Nutella!
CookpadNealey cooks


Ethiopian Injera – A savoury, spongy flatbread made from teff flour, used to scoop up stews and curries.

Ethiopian injera Recipe by Edwin Waweru
Sth to try for brunch
CookpadEdwin Waweru

Korean Hotteok – Sweet, stuffed pancakes filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.

Hotteok Korean Cooking Recipe by cookpad.japan
You will become hooked to the cinnamon. It uses brown sugar that has lots of minerals, and the sesame and peanuts are good for your skin. The point is to make sure that the filling paste inside is spread out evenly! Make it 0.8~1cm thick. This tastes great of you fry it up in lots of vegetable oil. …
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Secrets to the perfect pancakes

No matter the style, a few simple tricks can help achieve the best texture and flavour:

  • Let the batter rest – This helps develop better texture and flavour.
  • Use the right pan – A well-heated non-stick or cast iron pan ensures even cooking.
  • Flip at the right time – Wait until bubbles form on the surface before flipping for the best result.
  • Experiment with toppings – Whether you love sweet or savoury, the right toppings elevate the experience.

Pancakes can be adapted to suit any meal. They can be drizzled with honey, topped with fresh fruits, stuffed with creamy fillings, or even turned into savoury wraps with meats and vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes with Thai Ajard dipping sauce, Can be vegetarian too! Recipe by Emilys Home Cooked Kitchen
With credit to Yui Miles.....These pancakes are so delicious, they are so crispy. Perfect for anyone gluten intolerance because they are made with rice flour and creamy coconut milk. I hold my hands up right now, this is not my recipe, its Yui Miles recipe to be honest. Yui and I were on Channel 4’s…
CookpadEmilys Home Cooked Kitchen

Pancakes are more than just a dish; they’re a global tradition, a comfort food, and a canvas for creativity. Whether you stick to a classic recipe or try something new, pancakes offer a taste of cultures from around the world. Why not explore a new variation today?🥞

Find all our pancakes recipes on Cookpad:

7,105 easy and tasty pancakes recipes by home cooks
Huge variety of great homemade pancakes recipes including savoury pancakes, oats pancakes, potato pancakes, sourdough pancakes, nutella pancakes
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