Japanese Pancakes, Hot Cakes and Soufflé Pancakes: What Are They And How Do They Differ?

Normally a classic breakfast item, pancakes are slowly becoming a go-to dessert choice, especially with the debut of the popular soufflé pancake. More and more restaurants and cafes have started adding soufflé pancake options to their menus, and also inspiring home cooks to make this dish at home. But what’s the difference between Japanese pancakes and soufflé pancakes? 

Japanese Hot Cakes 

Japanese pancakes (also known as hot cakes) are similar to American pancakes but are said to be fluffier and sweeter. In recent years, people have opted to use ring molds to make a more expanded fluffy version of a pancake. Comparing the recipes for American pancakes and Japanese pancakes, the key ingredient missing in the latter is butter as it makes pancakes more rich and moist. Japanese pancakes also use a bit more baking powder to get its really fluffy texture.

Soufflé Pancakes

Soufflé pancakes on the other hand, are really fluffy and have an airy texture due to a larger amount of egg whites added to the batter. To make the batter for soufflé pancakes, egg whites are beaten till soft peaks form and the rest of the ingredients are folded in gently so it doesn’t deflate before you get it in the pan. The key to cooking soufflé pancakes is low heat and patience. It’s best to eat them right away so you don’t lose that airy texture.

Soufflé pancakes are said to have been made popular by the diner Eggs N’ Things, first established in Hawaii in 1974, and later opened locations in Japan. They can be eaten with savory ingredients but are most popular as a dessert with fruit, whip cream, and powdered sugar. Some unique variations of toppings that have taken the public and social media by storm include ube syrup, matcha syrup, and milk tea flavored cream and brown sugar boba.

About the author: 

Samantha Kwok

Samantha is currently a 5th-year JET in Okinawa, originally from Hawaii. She has been somewhat connected to Japanese culture her whole life despite being Chinese American. She's had the privilege of traveling to Japan and experiencing Japanese culture at a young age. She loves food and is always looking to try new places. When she is not working or out eating, she is an avid baker at home and has been known to feed her colleagues an excessive amount of baked goods.