Austrian Kaiserschmarrn

Ingredients

• 3 egg yolks (large, separated)
• 0.75 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for the batter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 3 egg whites (large, separated)
• 2 tbsp butter (divided; for frying and caramelizing)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for caramelizing in the pan)
• powdered sugar (for dusting)
• vanilla sauce (for serving)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

2. 2

   Add the flour and salt to the egg yolk mixture and whisk until smooth. Set this batter aside.

3. 3

   In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is essential for the pancake's light and fluffy texture.

4. 4

   Gently whisk a small portion of the whipped egg whites into the flour batter to lighten it up.

5. 5

   Pour the remaining batter into the bowl with the rest of the egg whites. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold them together, being careful not to deflate the air.

6. 6

   Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add some butter or ghee to coat the bottom.

7. 7

   Pour all of the batter into the pan and use the spatula to flatten it out into one large, thick pancake.

8. 8

   Let the pancake cook for a few minutes until the bottom is set and golden brown.

9. 9

   Using your spatula, cut the pancake into quarters or large pieces and flip them over gently. Don't worry if it looks messy at this stage.

10. 10

    Continue to break or cut the pancake into bite-sized cubes or irregular pieces as they cook.

11. 11

    Make a small space in the middle of the pan. Add another knob of butter and a tablespoon of sugar.

12. 12

    Toss the pancake pieces in the melting butter and sugar to coat them, allowing the edges to become crispy and caramelized.

13. 13

    Once golden and crispy, remove from heat. Serve warm with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a side of vanilla sauce.

Notes

The name Kaiserschmarrn translates to 'Emperor's Mess'. For the best results, ensure your egg whites are whipped to very stiff peaks and fold them in gently to maintain the volume.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• pancakes
• austrian
• breakfast
• sweet
• vegetarian