Luscious Lívance: Czech Pancakes with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups (355ml) buttermilk 1 1/2 cups (355ml) buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• Butter or oil for greasing the pan Butter or oil for greasing the pan
• Powdered sugar and whipped cream for serving Powdered sugar and whipped cream for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
4. 4.
   Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and grease it with butter or oil.
5. 5.
   Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the pan, making small pancakes. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute or until golden brown.
6. 6.
   Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and keep warm. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
7. 7.
   Serve the Lívance warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with a dollop of whipped cream.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Buttermilk — If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Lemon zest — Make sure to use organic lemons or wash the lemons thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra fluffiness, separate the egg whites and beat them until stiff peaks form. Fold them into the batter just before cooking.
• Experiment with different toppings such as fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• To keep the pancakes warm while cooking the remaining batches, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C).

Serving advice

Serve the Lívance warm, either as a standalone treat or as part of a brunch spread. Dust them generously with powdered sugar and add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Lívance on a platter, stacked in a tempting tower. Sprinkle them with powdered sugar and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant presentation.