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Authentic Palacsinta Hungarian Pancakes

Light, thin Hungarian palacsinta pancakes made with simple ingredients. Perfect for sweet or savory fillings and easy enough for everyday cooking.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Batter

  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup whole milk (or almond/soy/coconut milk)
  • cup carbonated water (or sparkling mineral water)
  • cup orange juice (or lemon juice)
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)

For Cooking & Serving

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (or oil)
  • Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Any preferred sweet or savory filling

Instructions
 

  • Whisk the Eggs
    Add the eggs to a mixing bowl and whisk until frothy and well combined.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients
    Pour in the milk, carbonated water, orange juice, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt to distribute evenly.
  • Form the Batter
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until the batter becomes silky and lump-free. It should be thin and pourable.
  • Prepare Your Skillet
    Heat a lightly buttered non-stick skillet over medium heat until the butter sizzles.
  • Cook the Pancakes
    Pour a small ladle of batter into the skillet, swirling it into a thin circle.Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden, then flip and cook the second side.
  • Keep Warm
    Transfer cooked palacsinta to a plate and cover to keep warm while repeating with remaining batter.
  • Fill & Serve
    Add your favorite fillings — berries, whipped cream, Nutella, cheese, sautéed vegetables — then roll or fold. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Notes

  • Resting the batter helps create smoother, more elastic pancakes.
  • Adding citrus enhances flavor without overpowering the batter.
  • For crispier edges, cook a little longer on medium-high heat.
  • Perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacking, or dessert.