Pancake Recipe: A healthier treat for Shrove Tuesday
We understand the importance of offering children tasty treats without relying on high-sugar options that can negatively impact their health. Finding recipes that are both nutritious and appealing to little ones can be a challenge, so we turned to an expert for help
Our very own award-winning Catering Manager, Kate, has developed a pancake recipe designed for families to enjoy together. These pancakes are made without added sugar or syrup, providing a lovely balance of food groups including grains, fruit, dairy (or alternatives), and healthy fats.
The addition of flaxseed offers a valuable source of omega-3, which is essential for brain development in both children and adults.
This means you can enjoy a special Shrove Tuesday treat while still giving your family something nourishing and satisfying, without relying on sugary toppings or empty calories.
A celebration can be both joyful and wholesome, and these pancakes are a perfect way to create happy memories while supporting growing bodies too.
Simple Egg Pancakes
A quick, gentle recipe for soft pancakes that are perfect for little hands.
You will need:
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk (or oat milk if preferred)
- 1 cup plain flour (or ground oats for a softer DEN-style option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon milled flax seed (optional)
- Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few mashed berries for natural sweetness
How to make them:
- Crack the egg into a bowl and whisk gently.
- Add the milk and melted butter.
- Stir in the flour, flax seed (if using) and baking powder until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick pan and spoon in small pancake rounds.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes each side until golden and soft
Vegan Pancakes (Egg-Free option)
Just as fluffy, just as comforting and perfect for dairy-free days.
You will need:
- 1 cup oat milk (or any plant milk)
- 1 cup plain flour (or ground oats)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon melted vegan butter
- 1 tablespoon milled flax seed (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mashed banana or apple purée (this replaces the egg beautifully)
- Optional: cinnamon or a tiny pinch of vanilla
How to make them:
- Add the oat milk to a bowl.
- Stir in the mashed banana or apple purée.
- Mix in the flour, baking powder, flax seed (if using) and melted vegan butter.
- Spoon into a warm non-stick pan in small rounds.
- Cook gently until bubbles appear, then flip carefully.
Serving Suggestion (Simple and Nourishing)
These pancakes are lovely served with:
- Sliced banana for gentle sweetness
- Warm stewed fruit (like apples, pears, or berries) for a cosy topping
- A spoon of Greek yoghurt or plant-based yoghurt for creaminess and a little protein boost
