Sunday in Brooklyn’s Iconic Malted Pancakes: Fluffy Brunch Perfection
Discover the secret to Sunday in Brooklyn’s famously fluffy, nutty malted pancakes and decadent hazelnut maple syrup—your ultimate brunch upgrade.
We’ve Cracked the Code to Sunday in Brooklyn’s Famously Fluffy Pancakes
At the heart of Brooklyn’s vibrant brunch culture lies a dish that has captivated both locals and food tourists alike: the Sunday in Brooklyn malted pancakes. Renowned for their cloud-like texture and signature nutty sweetness, these pancakes have become a must-try for anyone seeking the city’s best breakfast experiences. If you’re longing for an elevated homemade brunch and crave that perfect stack, this guide uncovers everything—from the cult recipe to expert tips and creative variations.
Why These Pancakes Are So Beloved
- Light and Fluffy Texture: Achieved by careful leavening and gentle mixing techniques.
- Malted Milk Powder: Adds a nostalgic yet sophisticated depth of flavor.
- Hazelnut Maple Syrup: A rich, indulgent topping that elevates the entire dish.
- Brunch-Worthy Presentation: Oversized, golden stacks with decadent drizzles.
Ingredient Breakdown: What Makes Them Unique
| Component | Key Ingredients | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Pancake Batter | All-purpose flour, sugar, malted milk powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, eggs, butter | Builds fluffy, flavorful base |
| Hazelnut Maple Syrup | Hazelnut butter, maple syrup, water, salt | Provides nutty, rich, sweet finish |
Malted Milk Powder: The Secret Ingredient
This is the secret flavor booster, giving the pancakes a subtle maltiness reminiscent of classic soda shop treats. Its natural sweetness and depth pair perfectly with the buttermilk richness and enhance the nutty syrup topping.
Hazelnut Maple Syrup: Decadent and Versatile
The iconic topping is not just maple syrup—hazelnut butter is whisked in to create a creamy, nutty profile. The result? A syrup you’ll want to use on pancakes, waffles, toast, and even in smoothies. Some recipes add a touch of water or whipped cream for thickness and pourability.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Make Sunday in Brooklyn’s Malted Pancakes at Home
Ingredients
- For the Pancakes:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons malted milk powder
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 4 cups buttermilk
- 8 large eggs
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- Nonstick cooking spray (for skillet)
- For the Hazelnut Maple Syrup:
- 1 cup hazelnut butter
- ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup water
- ½ tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
Directions
- Prepare the Hazelnut Maple Syrup:
Whisk together the hazelnut butter, maple syrup, water, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside, or refrigerate if making ahead of time. - Make the Pancake Batter:
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, malted milk powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and eggs until well blended. Slow mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined (do not overmix). Whisk in the melted butter until smooth. - Cook the Pancakes:
Heat two 6-inch nonstick skillets over medium heat and spray with nonstick spray. Add ½ cup of batter to each pan. When small bubbles appear and the bottom is golden (1.5–2 minutes), gently flip with a plastic spatula. Cook another 2 minutes until puffed and golden. Repeat until all batter is used. - Serve:
Stack pancakes on plates and generously top with hazelnut maple syrup. Serve immediately for best texture.
Tips for Success: Fluffy Pancakes Every Time
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just incorporated; overmixing yields dense pancakes.
- Medium Heat: Pancakes need a gentle, steady heat to cook through without burning.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh buttermilk and eggs improve both flavor and rise.
- Be Gentle When Flipping: These pancakes are delicate; quick but careful flipping keeps them intact.
- Let Batter Rest: A few minutes of rest before cooking can allow flour to hydrate and bubbles to form.
Hazelnut Maple Syrup Variations
- Alternative Nut Butters: Substitute hazelnut butter with almond or peanut butter for different flavors.
- Praline Twist: Combine maple syrup with caramelized or toasted nuts and a touch of cream for extra richness.
- Honey Butter: Whip butter with honey and a splash of cream as a lighter yet sweet alternative.
- Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest for a fresh, bright syrup.
Make Ahead & Storage Instructions
- Hazelnut Maple Syrup: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before using.
- Pancake Batter: Can be prepped and refrigerated overnight for morning cooking (whisk gently before use).
- Cooked Pancakes: Lay on a wire rack until cool, then store in a sealed bag in the fridge for 2 days, or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the toaster or oven.
Brunch Serving Suggestions
- Stack pancakes high and garnish with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped roasted hazelnuts.
- Pair with a side of smoked bacon or breakfast sausage for savory contrast.
- Offer additional toppings like whipped cream, citrus wedges, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- For drinks, serve strong coffee, chai, or a classic brunch mimosa to round out the meal.
Sunday in Brooklyn: Café Culture and Inspiration
Sunday in Brooklyn café helped kick off a revolution in American pancakes—redefining what a brunch stack could be. When chef Jaime Young unveiled his malted pancakes with hazelnut maple syrup, he merged comfort food nostalgia with inventive technique: fluffy like childhood classics, but sophisticated in flavor and presentation.
This culinary innovation set the standard for thick, multilayered American pancakes and spawned dozens of creative riffs and remakes, inspiring home cooks and bloggers across the country to embrace malted milk, nut butters, and gourmet syrups in their pancake repertoires.
Expert Tips from Recipe Remake Creators & Café Insiders
- Malted Milk Powder: Just a tablespoon can make a noticeable difference—don’t skip it if you want authentic flavor.
- Infused Syrup: Homemade syrup can be used in smoothies, other breakfast dishes, or even desserts for weeklong flavor boosts.
- Pan Size Matters: Use a 6–8 inch nonstick skillet for the perfect pancake diameter.
- Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to spin the recipe with alternate nut butters or toppings to suit your taste.
Pancake Troubleshooting FAQ
Q: Why do my pancakes turn out dense instead of fluffy?
A: Dense pancakes are usually caused by overmixing your wet and dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, and gently fold in the butter.
Q: Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Note: texture may differ slightly due to absence of gluten.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have malted milk powder?
A: The malted flavor is distinctive but optional. You can omit it or try a teaspoon of milk powder with a touch of barley syrup or malt syrup for similar notes.
Q: How do I keep pancakes warm for a crowd?
A: Place cooked pancakes on a wire rack-lined baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve. This keeps them fluffy and prevents sogginess.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: Substitute buttermilk with unsweetened plant milk plus a tablespoon of lemon juice, and use vegan butter. Choose a nut butter that’s dairy-free for the syrup.
Pancakes Beyond Brunch: Creative Serving Ideas
- Pancake Sandwiches: Layer with whipped cream or sweetened ricotta for dessert-inspired sandwiches.
- Stacked Birthday Cakes: Frost layers of pancakes with cream cheese or chocolate ganache for celebratory treats.
- Mini Pancake Cereal: Make palm-sized pancakes for a whimsical, kid-friendly breakfast.
- Flavor Twists: Add blueberries, chocolate chips, or cinnamon to the batter for seasonal variance.
Recipe Remake Community: Join the Pancake Craze
Home chefs have begun sharing their own baking adventures inspired by iconic restaurant recipes. If you recreate these pancakes, snap a photo and tag your favorite food inspiration accounts; it’s a delicious way to be part of a nationwide brunch movement—one full stack at a time.
Summary Table: Quick Tips for Perfect Pancakes
| Step | Key Tip |
|---|---|
| Mixing | Do not overmix batter |
| Cooking | Medium heat, gentle flip |
| Serving | Stack high, top generously |
| Storage | Seal and refrigerate/freeze |
| Variations | Experiment nut butters & toppings |
Conclusion: Bring Sunday in Brooklyn Home
Whether you’re a devoted brunch enthusiast or simply passionate about elevating breakfast, mastering the art of the Sunday in Brooklyn malted pancake lets you savor New York culinary innovation from the comfort of your own kitchen. With each golden, fluffy bite and the rich drizzle of hazelnut maple syrup, everyday mornings become a celebration worthy of your favorite city café.
