If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in fluffy clouds of sweetness with a gorgeous green twist, this Matcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe is your new best friend. These airy, tall, and irresistibly soft pancakes blend the delicate, earthy flavors of matcha with the light, melt-in-your-mouth texture of a soufflé, creating a brunch experience that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re a matcha lover or just looking to impress your friends at your next breakfast gathering, these soufflé pancakes will elevate your morning ritual to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Matcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe lies in its simplicity with ingredients that are easy to find but essential to creating that perfect texture and vibrant green color. Each element plays its role, from fluffy egg whites to the subtle, rich hint of matcha powder, resulting in a stack that tastes as gorgeous as it looks.
- 2 large eggs: Provides structure and the essential lift in the batter thanks to the separated whites and yolks.
- 2 Tbsp whole milk: Adds tenderness and moisture without weighing down the pancakes.
- ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, familiar sweetness.
- 30 g cake flour: Use cake flour for a fine, soft crumb; it creates the delicate texture soufflé pancakes are known for.
- 1 tsp matcha (green tea powder): Brings that unmistakable vibrant color and subtle earthy flavor that makes this recipe unique.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Adds a gentle rise to help puff up the batter perfectly.
- 2 Tbsp sugar: Balances the slight bitterness of matcha with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 Tbsp neutral oil: For greasing the pan to ensure the pancakes cook without sticking.
- 2 Tbsp water: Used for steaming the pancakes to keep them moist and fluffy while cooking.
- Optional – Fresh whipped cream: ½ cup heavy cream and 1½ Tbsp sugar to whip into airy topping.
- Optional – Toppings: Confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries add the final flourish that makes these pancakes irresistible.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Matcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before diving into mixing, separate your eggs carefully, placing the whites in a bowl and chilling them in the freezer for 15 minutes. This key step helps the egg whites whip up into the perfect meringue. Meanwhile, gather a 12-inch nonstick frying pan with a lid for cooking multiple pancakes at once, ensuring an even low heat environment for gentle cooking.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolks with Milk and Vanilla
Combining the egg yolks with whole milk and vanilla extract until thick and frothy gives your pancakes extra richness and flavor. This creamy base balances the sharper, greener taste of the matcha powder.
Step 3: Sift in Dry Ingredients
Sifting cake flour, matcha powder, and baking powder into the yolk mixture helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky batter. Stir just enough to combine – overmixing can deflate the delicate batter you are building.
Step 4: Make the Meringue
Bring out your partially frozen egg whites and begin whipping them on medium speed, gradually adding sugar as they become frothy. Increase to high speed until you get glossy, stiff peaks that hold their shape – this airy meringue is the cornerstone of those signature fluffy soufflé pancakes.
Step 5: Combine Meringue and Batter Gently
Start by folding one-third of the meringue into the yolk mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the rest without deflating the air bubbles. Use a gentle hand and a whisk for even incorporation, preserving as much loft as possible.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow with Steam
Heat your pan on the lowest setting to about 300ºF (150ºC) and lightly oil it. Use a ladle to mound tall stacks of batter for each pancake, layering multiple scoops for height. Add water to the pan and cover with a lid to create steam, which keeps the pancakes moist, tender, and perfectly risen as they slowly cook for about 6–7 minutes on one side, then flip carefully and cook another 4–5 minutes.
How to Serve Matcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
The best part of serving these Matcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe masterpieces is dressing them up. Freshly whipped cream, dustings of confectioners’ sugar, and an extra sprinkle of matcha powder enhance both the look and the earthy flavor. A drizzle of maple syrup adds a sweet, amber touch that perfectly complements the slight bitterness of the green tea.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your pancakes with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color. A simple side of fruit salad or even a lightly sweetened yogurt parfait balances the richness of the soufflé pancakes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your matcha pancakes tall for a dramatic presentation, or serve them individually on vintage plates with a colorful berry compote dripping down the sides. For a fun twist, add edible flowers or a dusting of toasted coconut flakes to surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
While these soufflé pancakes are best enjoyed fresh for their light and airy texture, any leftovers should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to two days but may lose some fluffiness.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not recommended as the delicate texture can suffer. If you must freeze, flash freeze individual pancakes on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag, and consume within a month for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pancakes in a low oven or microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Avoid high heat to preserve the soft, soufflé-like structure.
FAQs
What is the key to making fluffy matcha soufflé pancakes?
The absolute key is properly whipping your egg whites into stiff peaks and folding them gently into the batter without deflating the air bubbles. This trapped air is what gives the pancakes their signature height and cloud-like texture.
Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour?
While all-purpose flour can be used, cake flour is preferred because its lower protein content results in a softer, lighter crumb essential for soufflé pancakes. If using all-purpose, consider removing a tablespoon or two to mimic cake flour texture.
How do I prevent the pancakes from collapsing?
Cooking on low heat with lid-on steam is vital, as is ensuring the inside is fully cooked before flipping. Avoid overbeating or underbeating the meringue, and fold the batter delicately to maintain structure.
Is matcha powder easy to find?
Yes, matcha powder is widely available in grocery stores, specialty tea shops, or online. Look for culinary-grade matcha for cooking; it has a brighter color and slightly stronger flavor suited for this recipe.
Can I make these pancakes vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on eggs and dairy for its texture, so substitutions can be challenging. However, experimenting with aquafaba (chickpea water) for meringue and plant-based milk may work, though results will vary greatly from traditional soufflé pancakes.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve whipped up this Matcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a cherished morning favorite. The perfect combination of beautiful green tea flavor, incredible fluffiness, and versatile serving options makes it a recipe worth keeping and sharing. So treat yourself and your loved ones to this unique pancake experience that turns any brunch into a joyful celebration.
PrintMatcha Soufflé Pancakes Recipe
These Matcha Soufflé Pancakes are irresistibly airy and fluffy, giving you a cloud-like texture infused with the delicate flavor of Japanese green tea powder. Perfect for a Sunday brunch, these pancakes are topped with homemade whipped cream, maple syrup, and an extra dusting of matcha powder for a beautiful, flavorful breakfast treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 pancakes (3-inch each)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Matcha Soufflé Pancakes
- 2 large eggs (50 g each without shell)
- 2 Tbsp whole milk
- ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract
- 30 g cake flour (¼ cup minus 1 tsp; sifted)
- 1 tsp matcha (green tea powder) (2 g)
- ½ tsp baking powder (1 g)
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp neutral oil
- 2 Tbsp water (for steaming)
Fresh Whipped Cream (optional)
- ½ cup heavy (whipping) cream
- 1½ Tbsp sugar
Toppings
- 1 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.; optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the whipped cream (optional): Set an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice water and resting a medium bowl on top. Add ½ cup heavy cream and 1½ Tbsp sugar to the cold bowl. Whisk at high speed until medium to firm peaks form. Keep chilled until serving.
- Separate eggs and chill whites: Separate the 2 eggs into yolks and whites. Place egg whites into a bowl and freeze for 15 minutes to partially freeze them, which helps achieve a perfect meringue.
- Mix egg yolk batter: Add 2 Tbsp whole milk and ¼ tsp vanilla extract to yolks. Whisk until thick and frothy. Sift together 30 g cake flour, 1 tsp matcha powder, and ½ tsp baking powder, then whisk into the yolk mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Make the meringue: Remove egg whites from freezer (should be half frozen). Beat on medium-low until frothy, gradually adding 2 Tbsp sugar in thirds. Increase speed to high and beat to stiff peaks—glossy texture and peaks that stand straight or slightly fold at tips.
- Heat frying pan: Warm a 12-inch nonstick skillet over the lowest heat setting until the surface reaches 300ºF (150ºC). Brush lightly with 1 Tbsp neutral oil, then wipe excess with a paper towel to avoid spotty frying.
- Combine meringue and batter: Fold one-third of the meringue into the yolk mixture by whisking to lighten. Gently fold half of remaining meringue using a whisk to retain air bubbles. Finally, fold in the rest of the meringue gently until fully combined and smooth.
- Form pancakes: Keep pan heated at 300ºF (150ºC) on low. Using a ladle (~2–3 Tbsp), pile batter into tall mounds—start with two scoops per pancake for three pancakes. Add a third scoop once the surface feels slightly dry.
- Steam cook pancakes: Add 1 Tbsp water into three empty pan spaces and cover with a lid. Cook for 6–7 minutes on low heat to steam and set the pancakes. After 2 minutes, add a final scoop on each pancake to build height. Add more water if evaporated and cover.
- Flip pancakes: After 6–7 minutes, gently loosen and flip each pancake using a rolling motion with an offset spatula. Add another 1 Tbsp water to empty pan spots, cover, and cook the other side for 4–5 minutes on lowest heat.
- Serve: Plate pancakes and top with fresh whipped cream, fresh berries, a dusting of confectioners’ sugar and matcha powder, and drizzle maple syrup. Enjoy immediately for best texture.
- Store leftovers: Store pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid deflating.
Notes
- Use the fluff and sprinkle method or weigh flour for accuracy to avoid dense pancakes.
- Partially freezing egg whites helps create a stable meringue for fluffy texture.
- Beat egg whites to stiff peaks but avoid overbeating, which can cause graininess and deflation.
- Cook pancakes slowly over low heat with steaming water to keep them moist and prevent collapsing.
- Do not rush flipping; wait until pancakes can be gently moved to avoid cracks.
- Best eaten fresh; stored leftovers may lose fluffiness.