Don’t pour pancake batter into pan before 1 step says MasterChef star

Whilst pancakes are best enjoyed on Shrove Tuesday, there’s nothing to stop us cooking them all year round.

Versatile as a breakfast option or a snack – and enjoyed both traditionally thin and in a puffier ‘American style’ – there’s a pancake preference for everyone especially when it comes to toppings. To ensure yours come out perfect, meanwhile, MasterChef star Marcus Wareing has shared his recipe and urged all home cooks to follow one simple step.

One of the hit BBC show’s judges, culinary expert Marcus began a TikTok video by declaring: “This is the only pancake recipe you will ever need.” The 56-year old pointed out he would be creating a “classic pancake batter”, using plain four, which he sieved into a mixing bowl.

Marcus then added sugar before cracking four egg yolks into the mix. Next he poured in milk, expressing the importance of mixing the ingredients with a whisk to create a “nice consistency”, one that’s “not too thick, not too thin”.

As for his “really important” trick, Marcus said you must get your pan warm first. “Just put a little bit of oil into the pan,” he added before pouring in his mixture to create the first pancake.

Meanwhile, London chef and restaurant owner, Nima Safaei has outlined the value of patience when it comes to pancake making. “A good batter should always rest, even briefly,” he advised. “Thirty minutes allows the mixture to relax and improves the texture of the pancakes.”

Although lemon and sugar are the most popular pancake topping choices in the UK, Nima revealed that while “simplicity wins” for him. However, he admitted it’s fine should foodies wish to add “an Italian touch” to the dish.

“Lemon and sugar is timeless,” he enthused. “Nutella is always a favourite. Fresh berries with cream feel light and elegant.” As for his Mediterranean twist, Nima recommended trying “mascarpone with honey and toasted hazelnuts”.

“It’s indulgent, balanced, and delicious,” he declared.

A BBC poll revealed that 31% of voters chose lemon and sugar as their top pick, followed by 17 per cent who preferred chocolate hazlenut, sometimes paired with banana. Maple syrup came in third at 14 per cent, while eight per cent opted for bacon, served with or without syrup.

Other favourite toppings included fresh fruit such as blueberries, bananas, or applesauce, ice cream, and chocolate sauce.

More adventurous combinations were also seen in the options, with some trying smoked salmon and cream cheese for a surprising savoury twist.