Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. It sets the tone for the hours ahead and can be a source of joy and comfort.

For many Australians, they understand the value of starting the day with something delightful, and we're always on the lookout for recipes that are both simple and satisfying.

Allie Charnthorn Reinmann from Lifehacker Australia shared her recipe for feta and honey pancakes—a dish that promises to elevate your morning routine with its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.


Why settle for ordinary pancakes when you can indulge in a breakfast that feels like a treat you truly deserve?

Feta and honey pancakes are not just a meal; they're an experience. The combination of salty, tangy feta cheese with the sweet, floral notes of honey creates a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

This dish is a testament to the joy of trying new things and the pleasure of eating food that's made with a little extra love.


Allie shared that the inspiration for this dish may have come from a fleeting image on social media, but the concept is rooted in culinary tradition.

Feta cheese, with its rich history in Greek cuisine, and honey, a natural sweetener used since ancient times, come together to create a modern twist on a classic breakfast staple.


Here's how you can make your own feta and honey pancakes and start your day with a smile, according to Allie:

Ingredients:

• Your favorite pancake batter (boxed mix, homemade, or gluten-free)
• Greek feta cheese, sliced into ¼-inch planks or crumbled
• Honey for drizzling
• Butter for the skillet

Instructions:
1. Prepare the pancake batter

The ingredients added to these pancakes elevate their flavor, allowing you to utilize any pancake recipe of your choice—whether it's a boxed mix, homemade from scratch, or even gluten-free.

Allie recommends slightly decreasing the amount of liquid used to ensure a thicker batter consistency, as a runny pancake batter may result in cheese chunks protruding from the pancakes.

While not a major issue, Allie prefers a thicker batter that allows the cheese to blend in.

‘I used boxed pancake mix and subtracted a 1/4-cup of water from their suggested one cup of water. Prepare your batter and have it ready by the pancake skillet,’ she advised.


2. Griddle the cheese

Allie suggests using a pre-crumbled sheep's milk cheese, readily available in the refrigerated section of grocery stores, or Greek feta, which typically comes in a block marinated in brine.

She advised slicing the feta into 1/4-inch planks, and if they break, simply arrange them closely together in the pan.

Place a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat, and add a slice of feta or a spoonful of crumbles to the melted butter.

While it may sizzle briefly due to the brine, it will settle after a few seconds.

‘Once the butter turns a medium brown, you’ll see the bottom edge of the feta is browning, too. Scoop the prepared pancake batter over the feta. I use about a ¼-cup of batter per pancake,’ she explained.


3. Cook the pancakes and serve with a drizzle of honey

Prepare the pancake as usual, allowing the first side to cook thoroughly and flipping it once the bubbles on the edges dry out.

Allie encourages carefully lifting the pancake with a thin spatula, ensuring to scrape under it to preserve the crispy layer of feta that forms where it meets the pan.

Transfer the cooked pancakes to a wire rack to cool while you finish the remaining batch, and serve the warm pancakes with a generous drizzle of honey.

Allie said that the crispy, golden crust formed by the feta cheese is reminiscent of the delightful texture found in feta fried eggs.

While the cheese develops a fantastic frico crust where it touches the hot pan, just beneath it remains creamy, salty, and briny warm feta.

‘Honey is the perfect companion to the feta’s powerful flavor profile, but a classic maple syrup application will be just as magical,’ she added.


Looking for more ways to elevate your pancake game?

After indulging in the delicious combination of feta and honey pancakes, why not explore a more relaxed approach to pancake-making with April's lazy day baked pancakes?

These recipes offer a delightful contrast in preparation methods, providing options for both the adventurous and those seeking simplicity.

Whether you're in the mood for a crispy, savory treat or a fluffy, fuss-free delight, there's a pancake recipe to suit every taste bud and occasion.
Would you give these pancakes a try? Do you have your own recipe for making pancakes? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.