Romanian Pancakes Recipe – Clătite

Romanian Pancakes Recipe – Clătite 🇷🇴🥞

Romanian pancakes, known as Clătite, are a delightful childhood memory for many. These thin, delicate pancakes are a staple in Romanian households, often enjoyed with an array of delicious fillings. Traditionally, they are served with fruit jams, but many also indulge in Nutella, honey, or a sweet cheese mixture.

A Taste of Nostalgia

For many, the love for Clătite starts at an early age. Some might recall enjoying them with simple sugar, savoring the crunch and sweetness wrapped in a soft pancake. As taste preferences evolve, fillings like sour cherry jam, plum jam, or apricot jam become favorites—even if they tend to spill out deliciously from the ends! 😋

How to Make Romanian Pancakes – Step-by-Step 🥞

1️⃣ Prepare the Batter

👩‍🍳 Start by whisking the eggs in a large mixing bowl until they become light and fluffy. 🥄 Add the vegetable oil and salt, whisking to incorporate. 🥛 Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. 🌾 Slowly sift in the flour, ensuring there are no lumps. The batter should be smooth and silky. 💦 Finally, add the sparkling mineral water and mix gently for a light, airy consistency.

2️⃣ Cooking the Pancakes

🔥 Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly brush it with oil. 🫗 Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling it around to create a thin, even layer. ⏳ Cook for about a minute, until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown. 🔄 Flip carefully and cook for another 30 seconds. 🥞 Repeat the process, remembering to brush the pan with oil after each pancake.

3️⃣ Fill and Serve

🍒 Spread your favorite filling inside each pancake. 🌯 Roll them up or fold them into quarters. 🍯 Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey for extra indulgence. 😋 Enjoy warm!

Pro Tips for Perfect Clătite 👨‍🍳

✅ Use sparkling water for fluffier pancakes. It aerates the batter, making them light and soft. ✅ Don’t skip the salt! It enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness. ✅ Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This ensures a smoother consistency. ✅ Brush the pan lightly with oil. Too much oil makes the pancakes greasy; too little may cause sticking. ✅ Experiment with fillings. Traditional jams are delicious, but fresh fruits, chocolate spread, or even savory options like cheese and ham work great too!

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know

❓ Can the batter be made ahead of time? ✔️ Yes! It can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just whisk it before using. ❓ How to store leftover pancakes? ✔️ Leftover Clătite can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. But let’s be honest—they rarely last that long! 😉 ❓ Can these pancakes be made gluten-free? ✔️ Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the liquid slightly to maintain the right consistency. ❓ What’s the difference between Romanian pancakes and French crêpes? ✔️ While they are similar, Clătite tend to be slightly thicker and more elastic due to the addition of sparkling water, making them extra soft and tender.

Final Thoughts 🥞🇷🇴

Romanian Clătite are an absolute delight—easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for any time of day. Whether filled with traditional jams or modern twists like Nutella, they bring a taste of Romania straight to your kitchen. Try this simple recipe and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade pancakes! 😊 Have you tried this recipe? Let us know your favorite filling in the comments! 🍓🍫🍯