Kaiserschmarren (Austria)

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

The name "Kaiserschmarren" combines Kaiser (meaning "emperor") and Schmarren (meaning "mess" or "scramble" in Austrian German). According to legend, it was created for Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, who loved simple yet delicious foods. Stories vary, with some saying it was a happy accident when a pancake broke in the pan, and others claiming it was a special creation to suit the Emperor's taste.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (240ml) milk

• 4 large eggs, separated

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp salt

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)

• 2 tbsp raisins (optional, soaked in rum or water)

• 1–2 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting

  
  

For Serving

• Plum or apple compote (optional)

• Fresh berries (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. If using raisins, fold them into the batter.

  
  

Whip the Egg Whites

• In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

  
  

Fold in the Egg Whites

• Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them. This will help keep the pancake light and fluffy.

  
  

Cook the Kaiserschmarren

• In a large skillet (10–12 inches) over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Pour half of the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly.

• Cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the top is starting to set. Flip or cut the pancake into quarters to make flipping easier. Cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes.

• Once both sides are golden, use a spatula to cut or tear the pancake into bite-sized pieces. Add ½ tbsp butter and sprinkle 1 tbsp sugar over the pieces, then gently toss until slightly caramelized. Transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the remaining batter.

  
  

Serve

• Dust the Kaiserschmarren generously with powdered sugar and serve with plum or apple compote on the side, or garnish with fresh berries if desired.