Name: Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 large eggs (50 g each w/o shell); 1½ Tbsp whole milk; ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract; ¼ cup cake flour; ½ tsp baking powder; 2 Tbsp sugar; 1 Tbsp neutral oil (for greasing the pan); 2 Tbsp water (for steaming); ½ cup heavy (whipping) cream; 1½ Tbsp sugar; 1 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar; Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.); Maple syrup

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 9 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of biting into clouds of pure, fluffy delight, then my Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe is here to make that dream come true. These pancakes are wonderfully airy and tall, with a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. Unlike traditional pancakes, they boast an almost soufflé-like softness that will have you swooning after just one bite. Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or simply want to treat yourself, these pancakes are a showstopper, perfect for impressing friends or indulging in a serene, cozy morning at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, containing a mixture with two layers: a dry white flour layer surrounding a yellow liquid layer in the center. A metal whisk is positioned inside the bowl, partially blending the layers together. At the edge of the bowl, a woman's hand lightly holds it steady, with natural skin tone visible and nails slightly polished photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you — each one plays an essential role in creating the heavenly fluff and subtle sweetness of these pancakes. From the lightness of whipped egg whites to the hint of vanilla and the gentle moisture from milk, every element contributes to making this Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe an instant favorite.

2 large eggs: The foundation for the meringue and batter, vital for structure and lift.
1½ Tbsp whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps bind the batter perfectly.
¼ tsp pure vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic sweetness that enhances flavor.
¼ cup cake flour: Use cake flour for a tender crumb and soft texture.
½ tsp baking powder: Gives that extra rise and lightness to the pancakes.
2 Tbsp sugar: Sweetens the batter just right and helps stabilize the meringue.
1 Tbsp neutral oil: For greasing the pan to prevent sticking without overpowering flavor.
2 Tbsp water: Used in steaming, ensuring the pancakes stay moist and tender.
½ cup heavy (whipping) cream: For making optional fresh whipped cream, luxuriously creamy.
1½ Tbsp sugar: To sweeten the whipped cream gently.
1 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar: Perfect for a light dusting on top.
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.): Adds a burst of freshness and color.
Maple syrup: The classic topping that complements fluffy pancakes beautifully.

How to Make Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you’ll need and setting up your cooking station. Using a kitchen scale for accurate measurements is a game-changer here, ensuring perfectly balanced batter. A nonstick frying pan with a lid is your best friend for making evenly cooked, luscious pancakes. Remember, working in small batches keeps the airy batter from deflating, which is key to achieving that soufflé-like height and fluffiness.

Step 2: Make the Fresh Whipped Cream (Optional)

This step is a little indulgence that perfectly complements your Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes. Chill your cream and sugar over an ice bath, then whisk vigorously until you get medium to firm peaks. The cold temperature helps whip the cream faster and yields a velvety, fluffy texture. Set this aside in the refrigerator so it’s fresh and ready to top your pancakes.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

Separate your eggs, then whisk the yolks with milk and vanilla until frothy and thickened. Sift your cake flour and baking powder into the yolk mixture so there are no lumps, which ensures a smooth batter base. Keep this aside while you prepare the meringue — this careful preparation builds the structure of your soufflé pancakes.

Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites into Meringue

Here’s the heart of the recipe: freezing the egg whites before whipping helps stabilize the meringue, resulting in those incredible peaks that lift the batter. Beat the whites until frothy, then slowly add sugar and whip until stiff peaks form. The glossy, firm meringue is what makes these pancakes soar in height and airy texture without collapsing.

Step 5: Fold In the Meringue

Folding the meringue in gently is an art. Start by mixing a third of the meringue into your yolk mixture with a whisk, then delicately fold in the rest by hand, preserving those precious air bubbles. Using a whisk instead of a spatula helps keep the batter light and fluffy, a crucial trick in the Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe.

Step 6: Cook Your Pancakes

Maintain a low and steady heat — around 300ºF — and lightly oil your pan for a smooth cooking surface. Spoon tall mounds of batter to create those signature lofty pancakes, stacking a few scoops on each to build their height. Add water to the pan and cover with a lid, creating steam that keeps the pancakes moist and tender. Flip gently when they’re ready to avoid any cracks. This slow, patient cooking process is what gives the pancakes their irresistible soufflé quality.

How to Serve Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a golden fluffy pancake piece with a small dollop of white cream on top held by a fork in the foreground. In the background, there is a white plate with several pale yellow pancakes stacked together. Around the pancakes, there are fresh strawberry slices with red and white gradients, dark blueberries, and a single blackberry, all placed on a white marbled surface. The scene is bright and crisp, with soft natural light highlighting the textures of the pancakes and fruits. A white cup with a blue pattern sits blurred in the far background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, and a handful of vibrant fresh berries effortlessly elevates these pancakes to dessert status. The touch of maple syrup drizzled over adds the perfect sweet, sticky finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your pancakes with lightly crisped bacon, fresh fruit salad, or a small bowl of yogurt for a complete and satisfying brunch platter. The pancakes’ delicate texture balances wonderfully with savory or tangy sides, making your meal feel decadent yet well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, stack your fluffy soufflé pancakes with layers of jam and whipped cream in between or create mini pancake towers for an adorable single-serving presentation. You can also experiment with flavored whipped creams like matcha or chocolate to add exciting variations to this classic recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll maintain their softness for up to 2 days, though the texture isn’t quite the same as freshly made.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal as it can affect the delicate texture, but if necessary, wrap each pancake tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat pancakes gently in a nonstick skillet over low heat with a lid on to preserve moisture, or microwave for a brief 20–30 seconds, but watch out not to overdo it as they can lose their signature fluffiness quickly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?

Whole milk is recommended because it provides the right amount of fat and consistency; lower-fat or plant-based milks may thin out the batter and affect the soufflé texture.

Why do I need to freeze the egg whites before whipping?

Partially freezing egg whites helps them whip more easily and achieve stiff peaks by stabilizing the proteins, which is essential for the fluffy structure of the pancakes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Since cake flour is used, substituting with a gluten-free flour blend might work but could change the texture; experiment with a fine gluten-free cake flour for best results.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to prepare and cook the batter in separate batches to prevent the meringue from deflating and keep your pancakes as fluffy as possible.

What if my pancakes don’t rise as tall as expected?

Be sure to gently fold the meringue without deflating it and keep your pan at the right low temperature while cooking covered to create steam; these techniques help pancakes rise beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to dive into this delightful Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Recipe and experience its cloud-like texture and light sweetness for yourself. It’s a recipe that brings joy to your morning table and warmth to your heart. Give it a try, and trust me, your brunch game will never be the same.