Pancakes with Dandelion Syrup

Name: Pancakes with Dandelion Syrup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups dandelion flowers (washed and stems removed); 2 cups water; 2 cups sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

When I first tried making pancakes with dandelion syrup, I never imagined how delightful the combination would be. The floral notes of the syrup perfectly enhance the fluffy pancakes. Each bite delivers a gentle sweetness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. This recipe has quickly become a weekend favorite in our house. The process is simple yet rewarding, turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-20T15:18:19.969Z

When I first discovered that dandelions were edible, I was intrigued and decided to experiment with their syrup. I found that the syrup's sweetness complements the pancakes beautifully. While cooking, let the pancakes bubble before flipping, ensuring they're fluffy. The dandelion syrup adds a unique twist that elevates this traditional breakfast dish.

Revisiting the basic pancake recipe allowed me to appreciate how versatile it can be. I recommend adding a dash of vanilla or cinnamon to the pancake batter for an extra layer of flavor. This simple addition transforms an ordinary breakfast into a lovely morning treat!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The unique, floral sweetness of dandelion syrup adds a surprising twist
Fluffy pancakes that are easy to make and hard to resist
An opportunity to forage and use wild ingredients in your cooking

Understanding Dandelion Syrup

Dandelion syrup brings a unique, floral quality that cannot be replicated with traditional syrups. This ingredient not only contributes a delightful sweetness but also offers health benefits, such as aiding digestion. When foraging for dandelion flowers, ensure you collect them from areas free of pesticides and pollutants. Look for vibrant yellow blooms and remove any wilted or discolored flowers to maintain the syrup's flavor and appearance.

The syrup’s texture can vary depending on the cooking time. If you prefer a thinner syrup, decrease the simmering time slightly. For a thicker consistency, let it simmer a little longer until it coats the back of a spoon. Remember, the syrup will thicken more as it cools, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the simmering duration to find your ideal consistency.

Perfecting Fluffy Pancakes

Achieving perfectly fluffy pancakes relies on two main factors: not overmixing the batter and ensuring your skillet is at the right temperature. After combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until no dry flour remains. A few lumps are okay; they help keep the pancakes airy. If overmixed, the gluten develops too much, resulting in dense, chewy pancakes instead of the desired light texture.

When cooking, ensure your skillet doesn't get too hot; a medium heat setting is usually best. You can test the skillet by sprinkling a few drops of water on it—if they dance and evaporate quickly, it's ready. Look for bubbles forming on the surface of the pancakes before flipping them; this indicates that they are ready to turn over and should cook until golden brown on both sides for the best flavor and appearance.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dandelion Syrup

2 cups dandelion flowers (washed and stems removed)
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to prepare the dandelion syrup a day earlier for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your pancakes and syrup:

Prepare the Dandelion Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the dandelion flowers and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes. Strain the liquid into another pot, discarding the flowers. Add sugar and lemon juice, and bring to a boil again. Reduce the heat and simmer until it thickens, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool.

Make the Pancake Batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—don’t overmix!

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.

Serve

Stack the pancakes on plates and drizzle the dandelion syrup generously over them. Enjoy warm!

Pair these pancakes with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an added treat!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, try to use freshly foraged dandelion flowers. Ensure they are free from pesticides and pollutants. You can also substitute dandelion syrup with other floral syrups if desired.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover dandelion syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a month. Be sure to label the container with the date. The syrup’s flavor improves with time, allowing the floral notes to deepen. Just remember to give it a good shake before using, as some separation may occur.

Pancakes can also be stored, but it’s important to cool them completely first. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers if stacking. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Serving Suggestions

While dandelion syrup is a delightful topping, consider adding fresh fruits like berries or banana slices on top of the pancakes to enhance their flavor and nutrition. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add both creaminess and crunch, elevating your pancake breakfast into a special occasion.

For a twist on traditional pancakes, try adding 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the pancake mix, inviting additional layers of flavor that complement the dandelion syrup beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought syrup?

Yes, though the dandelion syrup adds a unique homemade touch.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the syrup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ What if I can't find dandelion flowers?

You can use other floral syrups or even fruit compotes as an alternative.