How to Make Frying Pan Dumpling Cakes: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Frying pan dumpling cakes, also known as skillet cakes, are a simple, quick, and versatile treat that can be whipped up in no time. These cakes are soft on the inside with a crispy golden exterior, and they’re perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. Made with basic ingredients like cornmeal, flour, eggs, and yogurt, this recipe delivers a unique twist on the traditional pancake, bringing together a delightful texture and flavor.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, these frying pan dumpling cakes are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone in your household. This recipe is easy to follow, and once you master it, you can experiment with different variations and toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients for Frying Pan Dumpling Cakes
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful frying pan cakes:
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 cup of cornmeal (4.4 oz)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour (4.4 oz)
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1/2 cup of plain yogurt (4.2 fl oz)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
These ingredients come together to create a simple yet flavorful dough that is both soft and slightly crisp, making for a wonderfully textured cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Frying Pan Dumpling Cakes
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Whisk together until the ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring that the baking powder is mixed thoroughly with the flour and cornmeal. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, crack 2 eggs and whisk them lightly. Add 1/2 cup of plain yogurt to the eggs and continue mixing until smooth. The yogurt helps give the dumpling cakes a soft, tender texture and adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the overall flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet egg and yogurt mixture. Stir gently to combine everything until you have a thick, smooth batter. At this stage, be careful not to overmix the dough as it can make the cakes tough.
Step 4: Add Melted Butter
Now, slowly drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter into the batter while stirring. The melted butter will add richness to the dough and help achieve a nice golden color when frying.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once your dough is fully mixed and homogeneous, grease your hands with a small amount of butter or oil. Using your hands, shape the dough into small, flat balls or patties, approximately the size of a golf ball. Flatten them slightly, so they cook evenly in the pan.
Step 6: Heat the Frying Pan
Grease a non-stick frying pan with a bit of butter and place it over medium heat. Allow the pan to get hot enough, but not smoking. This ensures that the dumpling cakes will cook evenly without burning.
Step 7: Fry the Dumpling Cakes
Place the shaped dumpling cakes into the hot frying pan, leaving enough space between them so you can easily flip them over. Cook the cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until both sides are golden brown. Use a spatula to flip them carefully, ensuring they cook evenly.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Once both sides are browned and the cakes are cooked through, transfer them to a plate. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as honey, syrup, or fruit preserves. These frying pan dumpling cakes can be eaten on their own or paired with a hot beverage like coffee or tea.
Tips for Perfect Frying Pan Dumpling Cakes
1. Grease the Pan Properly
Ensure that you grease the pan adequately before frying to prevent the cakes from sticking. A light layer of butter or oil will give the dumpling cakes a crisp outer layer while keeping the inside soft and tender.
2. Cook Over Medium Heat
Cooking over medium heat allows the cakes to cook evenly without burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. If your heat is too high, the cakes will brown too quickly before the center has time to cook through.
3. Keep the Cakes Small and Flat
Shaping the cakes into small, flat rounds helps them cook faster and more evenly. Large, thick dumpling cakes may remain doughy in the center even when the outside is browned.
4. Experiment with Add-Ins
For a more flavorful twist, consider adding extras to the batter. A handful of cheese, chopped herbs, or even sweet additions like chocolate chips or dried fruits can elevate the taste and make each batch unique.
5. Use a Non-Stick Pan
A good-quality non-stick pan is ideal for making frying pan dumpling cakes as it reduces the chances of sticking and ensures a smooth cooking process.
Delicious Variations of Frying Pan Dumpling Cakes
1. Cheesy Dumpling Cakes
For a savory take, mix 1/2 cup of grated cheese into the dough before frying. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even parmesan works well for adding a delicious cheesy flavor to the cakes.
2. Sweet Dumpling Cakes
Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for a sweet and fragrant version of frying pan dumpling cakes. These are great when served with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey.
3. Herbed Dumpling Cakes
Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives into the batter to give the cakes a fresh, savory flavor. This variation pairs well with dips or as a side dish to soups and salads.
4. Pumpkin Dumpling Cakes
For a fall-inspired treat, mix 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin spice into the batter. This version is perfect for cozy mornings or as a festive dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I substitute yogurt with another ingredient?
Yes, if you don’t have plain yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or buttermilk. Both alternatives provide a similar tangy flavor and moist texture to the dough.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly denser due to the whole grains, but the dumpling cakes will still taste delicious.
3. How do I store leftover frying pan dumpling cakes?
If you have leftovers, store the dumpling cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or pop them into the toaster for a quick warm-up.
4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before frying. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and fry as usual.
5. Can I add fruits or other toppings to the batter?
Absolutely! You can fold in chopped fruits like bananas, blueberries, or apples for a fruity twist. Just be sure not to add too much moisture, or the batter may become too wet.
Conclusion
Frying pan dumpling cakes are a delightful and easy recipe that brings together the familiar ingredients of cornmeal, flour, eggs, and yogurt to create something truly special. Whether served sweet or savory, these cakes are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. The recipe is simple enough for beginners while offering plenty of room for customization, making it a great addition to your regular cooking rotation.
Next time you’re craving something warm, comforting, and delicious, try making these frying pan dumpling cakes—you won’t be disappointed!