Griddle Cakes Recipe

Griddle Cakes, also known as pancakes or flapjacks, are a beloved breakfast staple enjoyed by people all around the world. These fluffy and delicious cakes, often served with maple syrup or fresh fruits, have a rich history that dates back centuries. In this recipe, we will be using a classic recipe that yields delightful griddle cakes that are perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

The origins of griddle cakes can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Greeks. These civilizations commonly made flat, unleavened pancakes using wheat flour, salt, and water. Over time, the recipe evolved, and various cultures added their own twist to the pancakes. In medieval Europe, pancakes were often made with ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter, making them more similar to the modern griddle cakes we enjoy today.

Here is the recipe for these delectable Griddle Cakes:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of flour
- 3 teaspoons of Dr. Price's Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 3/4 cup of milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of shortening

Instructions:
1. Begin by sifting together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sifting the dry ingredients will help ensure a smooth batter without any lumps.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, well-beaten eggs, and melted shortening. Whisk them together until well blended.

3. Gradually pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently. Use a spoon or a whisk to mix the batter until it is well incorporated and no lumps remain. Avoid overmixing as it can lead to tough pancakes.

4. Preheat a griddle or a non-stick pan over medium heat. If using a griddle, ensure it is well-greased to prevent the pancakes from sticking.

5. Once the griddle or pan is hot, pour approximately 1/4 cup of the batter onto the cooking surface for each griddle cake. You can adjust the size of the cakes according to your preference.

6. Cook the griddle cakes for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the pancakes gently using a spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat this step with the remaining batter.

7. Once cooked, transfer the griddle cakes to a serving platter. You can keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you cook the rest of the batter.

Now that your Griddle Cakes are ready, you can serve them with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. These pancakes are versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking.

Fun Fact: Did you know that pancakes have their very own day of celebration? In the United States, National Pancake Day is observed on February 25th each year. It is a day where people indulge in stacks of pancakes and often participate in pancake-themed events and fundraisers.

Similar dishes to griddle cakes from different cultures include:

1. French Crepes: These thin and delicate pancakes are a popular French treat. Made with a simple batter of flour, milk, eggs, and a touch of butter, crepes can be filled with sweet or savory fillings like Nutella and strawberries or ham and cheese.

2. Dutch Baby Pancake: Also known as a German pancake, this dish is a cross between a pancake and a popover. The batter is poured into a hot skillet and baked in the oven, resulting in a puffy and golden pancake that is often served with powdered sugar and lemon juice.

3. Japanese Souffle Pancakes: These fluffy and jiggly pancakes gained popularity in recent years. Made with a light and airy batter, souffle pancakes are cooked on a low heat, resulting in tall and fluffy cakes that are delightfully soft and melt-in-your-mouth.

Griddle Cakes, with their rich history and adaptability, continue to be a beloved breakfast choice worldwide. Whether you prefer them plain or loaded with toppings, these delicious pancakes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.