Poffertjes Recipe
Introduction
Poffertjes are small, fluffy Dutch pancakes that are perfect for a cozy breakfast or dessert. Light, airy, and slightly sweet, they’re quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Try them dusted with powdered sugar for a simple, delicious treat.

Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk, warmed
- 1 package instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- Softened butter for greasing the pan
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, instant yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture rest until it becomes frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. When the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour along with the egg.
- Step 3: Use an electric hand mixer to beat the batter until smooth. You can also whisk by hand, though an electric mixer is quicker.
- Step 4: Cover the batter and let it rest for 45 minutes to 1 hour until very bubbly and doubled in size.
- Step 5: Heat a poffertjes pan or large skillet over medium heat. Grease each cup or the surface with softened butter. Scoop a heaping tablespoon of batter into each cup, or space batter evenly on the skillet.
- Step 6: Cook for about 2 minutes until bubbles appear on top of the uncooked batter, then flip each poffertje.
- Step 7: Cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and repeat with the remaining batter.
- Step 8: Serve fresh with a dusting of powdered sugar and your favorite sweet breakfast sides.
Tips & Variations
- For extra fluffy poffertjes, be sure to let the batter rest so the yeast can fully activate.
- Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the batter for a subtle flavor twist.
- If you don’t have a poffertjes pan, use a regular nonstick skillet and space out the batter in small rounds.
Storage
Store any leftover poffertjes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven to keep them crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make poffertjes without yeast?
Traditional poffertjes rely on yeast for their characteristic fluffiness, but you can try a baking powder substitute. The texture will be slightly different and less airy.
What should I serve with poffertjes?
They are delicious dusted with powdered sugar, but also wonderful with fresh fruit, maple syrup, whipped cream, or melted butter for a rich, sweet experience.
PrintPoffertjes Recipe
Poffertjes are traditional Dutch mini pancakes that are light, fluffy, and perfect for a sweet breakfast or snack. Made with yeast and flour, these tiny delights are pan-cooked until golden brown and typically served dusted with powdered sugar. They offer a delightful texture and mild sweetness, ideal for family breakfasts or festive occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 poffertjes 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Dutch
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk, warmed
- 1 package instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Other
- Softened butter for greasing the pan
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, instant yeast, and sugar. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy, indicating it is activated and ready.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour mixture, then add the large egg. Use an electric hand mixer to beat the batter until smooth, or whisk vigorously by hand for a smoother consistency.
- Let the batter rest: Cover the batter and allow it to rest for 45 minutes to an hour. During this time, the batter should become bubbly and approximately double in size due to yeast fermentation.
- Heat your cooking surface: Warm a poffertjes pan or a large skillet over medium heat. Grease each cup of the poffertjes pan or the surface of the skillet lightly with softened butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the poffertjes: Scoop a heaping tablespoon of batter into each cup of the pan or spaced on the skillet surface. Cook for about 2 minutes until bubbles form on top and the bottoms turn golden brown.
- Flip and finish cooking: Carefully flip each poffertje using a fork or skewer and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve: Remove poffertjes from the pan and serve immediately, dusted with powdered sugar and alongside your favorite sweet breakfast accompaniments.
Notes
- The batter rests for an extended period to develop the yeast flavor and to create a fluffy texture.
- If you don’t have a poffertjes pan, a large nonstick skillet can be used, spacing the batter to prevent them from running together.
- Softened butter is important for greasing to ensure an easy flip and prevent sticking.
- Serve poffertjes warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Powdered sugar is the classic topping, but you can add syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for variety.
Keywords: Poffertjes, Dutch pancakes, mini pancakes, breakfast recipe, yeast pancakes, sweet breakfast, fluffy pancakes

