Kaiserschmarrn (Emperor's Cut-Ups)
Kaiserschmarrn or Kaiserschmarren is a shredded pancake, which has its name from the Austrian emperor Franz Joseph I, who was very fond of this kind of fluffy shredded pancake. It's a light and fluffy "pancake" that is perfect for Brunch-- or even as a light evening meal. In Bavaria, it is often served with a plum compote. We like ours lightly dusted with powdered sugar and with homemade apple sauce, on the side. Either way, it's easy to make and delicious!
Servings 4
Equipment
- 1 12" skillet non-stick is ideal
Ingredients
- 1-⅓ cups flour
- 1-¾ cups cold milk
- 4 egg yolks whites reserved
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 Tbsp. melted butter
- 2 Tbsp. sugar
- 2-3 Tbsp. clarified butter melted butter is fine
- Powdered or cinnamon-sugar for dusting
Plum Compote (optional)
- 1 pound Italian Prunes These are very seasonal, in the fall. I have not tried American plums.
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Mix the flour, milk, egg yolks, salt, melted butter and 1 Tbsp sugar into a smooth batter.
- Cover and let rest 30 minutes for the flour to swell.
- Beat the egg whites with 1 Tbsp. sugar until stiff and gently fold into the batter.
- Melt the clarified butter in a non-stick pan; pour the batter in, cover and cook.
- Once the underside of the pancake has turned golden, turn it over and continue to cook uncovered until the other side has also turned golden brown.
- Cut up into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle the pancake, while still hot, with powdered sugar or a mixture of cinnamon sugar.
For the Plum Compote (Optional)
- Slice each plum in half, and remove the seed. Slice each half into halves again. Likewise, you can also cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the sugar, vanilla and water. Simmer for about 20 minutes until well softened.
- Any leftover compote is delicious over vanilla yogurt for a healthy snack.
Notes
TIPS & HINTS: Strained pears, applesauce or plum compote is the traditional condiment, but I've been known to use Maple Syrup as well.