Flipping the Savings: Pancake Recipes and Cost-Saving Tips for Breakfast Bliss!

Image by Paul Besso

We all could do with some cost-saving ideas with the current cost of living crisis in mind: Here is one way to get three breakfasts for the price of one by doing slightly more hands-on work. And I do mean slightly; it will add about one minute to do the extras. Each of the recipes below will feed three to four people. That is, of course, if you are like me: in which case, double the recipe; just kidding.

The information regarding costs is from Ireland as of July first 2023. Regardless of where you reside, the saving should be similar.

What does it take to make pancakes: a degree in rocket science? You can buy the premixed powders in bags or premeasured bottles and add your liquids, and voila — You have Pancakes.

Alternatively, you can make them from scratch for a fraction of the cost: say €1.05 for between eight and ten large pancakes. That is the deluxe version; take out one egg, and the cost decreases to approximately €0.80. Add €.50 for electricity and €0.30 for gas, and you can make your own tasty pancakes for between €1.30 and €1.55 on the plate! That is between €.33 and €.39 per serving.

If I was to buy the bottle, mix €4.39 250g and add milk €0.26 and power €0.30/€0.50, the cost for the same yield jumps to between €4.69 and €4.89. What does that mean when people are struggling with the cost of living: If you choose either the non-deluxe version or the deluxe version — you can feed your family more than three pancake breakfasts for the price of one.

Deluxe Pancakes

Right, let’s talk pancakes. We’re not going to settle for any old mediocre job here. We aim for light, fluffy perfection that will make your taste buds sing. So pay attention, and let’s get flipping!

Ingredients:

• 200g all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 250ml milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. Start by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl. Add the sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick whisk to combine the dry ingredients evenly.
2. Whisk together the milk and eggs in a separate bowl until well beaten. Slowly pour the melted butter into the milk and egg mixture while whisking continuously. This will help prevent the butter from solidifying when it comes into contact with the cold milk.
3. Now, here comes the important part. Gradually pour the milk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking gently. It’s crucial not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing will result in tough pancakes, and we don’t want that, do we?
4. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flour to hydrate fully and will give you lighter pancakes.
5. While the batter rests, preheat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Grease the pan lightly with butter or oil. Remember, just a thin layer to prevent sticking, not a swimming pool!
6. Ladle approximately ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Let them cook until bubbles start to form on the surface, then carefully flip them over. Cook for another minute or so until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the pancakes from the pan and keep them warm. You can place them on a plate covered with a clean kitchen towel or keep them in a preheated oven set to low temperature until you’re ready to serve.
8. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the pan as needed. Remember to adjust the heat as you go to prevent burning or undercooking.

Now, the most crucial part: serving your masterpiece. Stack those fluffy pancakes high and drizzle them with maple syrup, or get creative with your favourite toppings. Fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips can take your pancakes to the next level.

So there you have it, shazam: a pancake recipe that will make you the breakfast hero. Now, get flipping and enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Everyday Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 200g all-purpose flour
• 25g sugar
• 10g baking powder
• 2.5g salt
• 300ml milk
• 1 large egg
• 30ml vegetable oil
• Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. Combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl and whisk them together to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
2. Create a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk, egg, and vegetable oil. Whisk everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
3. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flour to hydrate fully and will give you lighter pancakes.
4. Preheat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Grease the pan lightly with butter or oil.
5. Pour approximately 60ml of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then carefully flip them over. Cook for another minute or so until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and keep them warm. You can cover them with a clean kitchen towel or keep them in a preheated oven set to low temperature.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the pan as needed.

With this revised recipe, you will still end up with delightful pancakes that are light, fluffy, and even easier on the finances. Add your preferred toppings, such as syrup, fruit, or a simple sprinkle of powdered sugar and a squirt of Lemon juice. Enjoy your affordable and delectable mouthwatering pancakes!

Storage and Reheating of Leftovers

Storing Leftover Pancakes:

In case you have leftovers, you should take the following steps to avoid food waste and nullify the savings you have made.

1. Allow your pancakes to cool completely on a wire rack before storage to prevent them from becoming soggy due to trapped steam. Icky and sticky!
2. Once cooled, stack the pancakes with parchment or wax paper between them to prevent them from sticking together.
3. Place the stack in a large zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. Ensure all air is squeezed out before sealing the bag.
4. Store the pancakes in the refrigerator if you plan to use them within 1–2 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pancakes:

1. For refrigerated pancakes, you can reheat them in the microwave. Place 1–4 pancakes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel. Heat on high for about 20 seconds per pancake. Keep a close eye as microwaves vary in power.
2. For frozen pancakes, there’s no need to thaw them before reheating. You can microwave them using the above method, but extend the heating time to 40–60 seconds per pancake. Or you can reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Spread the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 10–15 minutes or until heated through.
3. You can also reheat the pancakes in a toaster. This works best for frozen pancakes. Just pop them in the toaster and use a light setting. The pancakes should come out warm and slightly crispy.

Always test a small part of the pancake before serving to ensure it’s heated all the way through. Remember, reheating times will vary based on the thickness of the pancakes and the power of your appliances. Enjoy your pancakes warm with your favourite toppings!

PS: If you want to take your pancakes to the next level, add 1 teaspoon of cream of Tarter, a small amount of Vanilla extract and a pinch of freshly ground nutmeg for a truly five-star experience.

Bonus: More Money Saving Tips

1. Buy in bulk: Larger quantities often offer better value per unit. Staple items like flour, sugar, and eggs can be bought in bulk and stored properly. Similarly, dry goods like oats and cereals usually have long shelf lives and can be bought in larger quantities when on sale.
2. Seasonal and Local Produce: Buying fruits and veggies that are in season and locally grown can also help save a considerable amount of money. They’re often cheaper and fresher than out-of-season or imported produce.
3. Make Your Own Mixes: Like your pancake recipes above, making your own mixes for things like Oatmeal, muesli, or granola can be much cheaper than pre-packaged alternatives. Plus, you can control the ingredients and customize them to your liking.
4. Use Leftovers: Don’t let anything go to waste! Yesterday’s dinner could be today’s breakfast. Leftover veggies can be added to an omelette. Leftover bread can be turned into French toast or an old-fashioned bread pudding. Be creative with your leftovers.
5. Plan Ahead: Take some time each week to plan your meals. This way, you can make sure you’re using all your groceries effectively, reducing waste and saving money.
6. Grow Your Own: If you have the space and time, growing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs can save a lot of money. Plus, there’s something very satisfying about eating something you’ve grown yourself!
7. Use Ai: This suggestion may seem strange, but it can save you money in some interesting ways. Tell the prompt to act as a chef of some iteration you like: Say Italian, and ask for ways to use leftovers or create cost-saving menus. You can find that here: you will not regret this suggestion https://chat.openai.com/

Remember, every little bit helps when it comes to saving money, especially during tough economic times. And these savings don’t have to come at the cost of delicious, satisfying meals. Your pancake recipes are a testament to that! Enjoy the savings and the scrumptious breakfasts.

For a final caveat: There is one thing I’d like to add. When making pancakes or any dish, remember to check the quality of your ingredients. Sometimes, buying the cheapest option is not the best for your health or the taste of your dishes.

It’s essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality. For instance, using good-quality flour and fresh eggs can make a difference in the taste and texture of your pancakes. And although these ingredients may cost a little more, the result can be well worth it.

Remember, cooking at home doesn’t just save money: it also allows you to control the quality and nutritional content of your meals. You can make healthier choices like using whole wheat flour for your pancakes or adding fruits, nuts, or Oatmeal for extra nutrition.