Want to know what the all-time most visited pancakes are on BBC Good Food? From classic crêpes to fluffy American pancakes and special dietary options, read on for our 15 most popular recipes over the past few years. Whether you are looking for plain crêpes, a special twist on Eggs Benedict or indulgently sweet and sticky chocolate-stuffed pancakes, our biggest hitters are sure to provide some inspiration.
For plenty more fabulous flippable recipes, also check out our collection of pancake recipes and Pancake Day ideas.
1. Easy pancakes
We can reveal that Good Food’s most popular pancake recipe (by a landslide margin) are these classic French-style crêpes. While this isn’t an especially fancy pancake, its easy, foolproof formula has stood the test of time, earning it the coveted top spot as king of crêpes. Perhaps part of our easy pancakes appeal is their simplicity, acting as a canvas for all kinds of toppings – whether you want to slather them in melted chocolate or opt for a classic lemon and sugar, these versatile crêpes have catered to all tastes and trends over the years.
Discover more delicious crêpe recipes, from classic crêpes Suzette to savoury buckwheat crêpe madames.
2. American pancakes
Over the past few years, we’ve noticed a growing interest in American-style pancakes, and it’s not hard to see why. A thick, fluffier alternative the European pancake, these beauties are easily stackable and can be loaded with all the toppings imaginable.
Check out our most popular American pancakes for an easy recipe, which demands to be covered in sticky maple syrup and anything else you fancy! We’ve also got lots more American pancake recipes with a variety of toppings and fillings.
3. American blueberry pancakes
One of our oldest recipes, this fruity variation of American pancakes makes a delicious dessert or brunch. Incorporating blueberries into the mixture gives these pancakes delicious little fresh pockets of flavour that burst when you bite into them. Teamed with maple syrup, these American blueberry pancakes are a sweet sensation.
For a step-by-step guide of how to make them, watch our video on how to make American pancakes.
4. Chocolate-stuffed pancakes with caramelised banana
Looking for an all-out indulgent brunch recipe? These sweet and sticky American pancakes come with a hidden chocolate centre and are oozing with maple syrup. Golden caramelised bananas are stacked between the pancakes, and it’s finished with a scattering of crunchy hazelnuts. These chocolate-filled pancakes have long been a favourite with our audience and well worth the effort.
Looking for more showstopping brunch and dessert options? See our pick of the most indulgent pancake recipes.
5. Fluffy American pancakes with cherry-berry syrup
If you like a combination of sweet and savoury, these American cherry pancakes have it down to perfection. Fully loaded with layers of silky mascarpone, tangy fruit compote and sweet maple syrup, then topped with rashers of crispy grilled bacon for a satisfying salty kick. These beauties took pride of place as one of our magazine cover stars, and have gained a loyal following since.
Treat yourself to more sweet pancake recipes.
6. Scotch pancakes
Similar to American pancakes, Scotch pancakes are slightly smaller and denser with a crisp outside. Hailing from Scotland, they are also known as drop scones, and traditionally made by dropping batter onto a griddle. Enjoy them with butter for a simple teatime snack or a quick and easy breakfast.
Also try this recipe for drop scones.
7. Fluffy Japanese-style pancakes
One our most popular new recipes. Not only are these pancakes irresistibly light and fluffy, they also have a delightful wobble. Cook the batter on a low heat in crumpet tins to give them some height, then carefully stack your Japanese fluffy pancakes in a neat tower and watch them jiggle.
We’ve got plenty more fabulously fluffy pancake recipes for you to try, or take a look at this okonomiyaki recipe for another Japanese-style pancake.
8. Banana pancakes
Consistently in our top 5 for the last few years, these easy banana pancakes may be small but they are also mighty when it comes to flavour. As a bonus, they don’t require any flour! Whip them up in just 10 minutes for a speedy, low-calorie snack served with some raspberries and chopped pecans.
Find more brilliant banana pancake recipes and see our pick of the best banana pancake recipes.
9. Eggs Benedict pancakes
We’ve reinvented this classic breakfast dish in pancake form and it’s a hit! Slices of thick ham, spinach and creamy hollandaise are sandwiched between herby American pancakes and topped with a runny poached egg. That’s breakfast sorted.
Try our recipe for Eggs Benedict pancakes, then browse more scrumptious savoury pancake recipes.
10. Ham & cheese pancakes
From croque monsieur to baguettes and omelettes, ham and cheese is a classic flavour combination that also works especially well as a pancake filling. With gooey gruyère, smoked ham and chives, these savoury crepes are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a light supper or late night cravings – we wouldn’t judge you.
Whip up our ham and cheese pancakes in less than 20 minutes, then check out more savoury crêpe recipes.
11. Crispy duck pancakes
Recreate a popular Chinese takeaway favourite with our quick and healthy makeover. Emma Freud’s recipe for crispy duck pancakes couldn’t be easier – the batter is made with just two ingredients and cooks in seconds. Top this with a fruity homemade plum sauce, crispy shredded duck pieces and crunchy veg for a next-level Friday night takeaway experience.
12. Potato pancakes
There is no end to the versatility of the humble potato. We’ve even found that they’re delicious mashed and incorporated into pancakes. These savoury sensations have a soft texture from the mash and a slight herby flavour from the chives. Serve our potato pancakes with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs for a winning breakfast or brunch.
Free-from pancakes
When it comes to special diets, we’ve got you covered on the pancake front. Discover our most popular alternative options for gluten, dairy and egg-free pancakes.
13. Easy vegan pancakes
Followers of a vegan diet shouldn’t have to miss out on perfectly fluffy pancakes. Use your own choice of plant-based milk in place of dairy in this easy vegan pancakes recipe. It’s a great base to layer up with your favourite toppings – vegan chocolate chips, coconut yogurt, bananas and blueberries all work well.
Check out more of our best ever vegan pancake recipes.
14. Banana oat pancakes
Looking for a healthy pancake recipe that’s full of flavour? Our dairy-free banana oat pancakes contain oat milk and mashed bananas for natural sweetness. Make them light and fluffy by whisking and folding whipped egg whites into the batter. Served with a dollop of yogurt and fresh berries.
Discover more dairy-free pancake recipes.
15. Gluten-free pancakes
Substitute regular flour for a specialist alternative and you have a basic gluten-free crêpe. The batter can be whisked up in just five minutes and is easy enough for children to help out with. These gluten-free pancakes are lusciously light and delicate but won’t fall apart when you flip them. Enjoy with a range of sweet or savoury fillings.
See our collection of gluten-free pancake recipes for plenty more ideas. You can also find more information about free-from pancake making in this guide on how to make pancakes with eggs, flour or milk.
Discover more perfect pancake recipes…
Top 10 pancake fillings
Top 10 savoury pancake recipes
Top 10 vegan pancake recipes
Top 5 American pancakes
Best healthy pancake recipes
How to make fluffy pancakes
Pancake recipes for kids
