Mango Pancakes are a light and tropical twist on classic crepes, featuring delicate yellow pancakes filled with luscious whipped vanilla cream and slices of juicy mango. Inspired by Hong Kong-style mango pancakes, this recipe makes a perfect brunch treat or elegant dessert. The soft texture of the crepe contrasts beautifully with the chilled filling, creating a refreshing yet indulgent bite that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pancakes:

• 45 g plain flour

• 2 tbsp cornflour

• 20 g icing sugar

• 20 g caster sugar

• Pinch of salt

• 200 ml warm full-fat milk

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp yellow food colouring (optional)

• Knob of butter, for frying

For the Filling:

• 250 ml double (heavy) cream

• 2 tbsp icing sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2–3 ripe mangoes (preferably Indian or Pakistani varieties)

To Serve (optional):

• Icing sugar, for dusting

• Sprigs of fresh mint

Directions

1. Make the Batter:

   • Sieve flour, cornflour, and icing sugar into a mixing bowl. Add caster sugar and salt.

   • In another bowl, whisk warm milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and food colouring (if using).

   • Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a smooth batter. Pass through a sieve to remove lumps.

2. Cook the Pancakes:

   • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat with a knob of butter.

   • Pour ~50 ml of batter into the pan, swirl to coat in a thin layer.

   • Cook on one side only until set (about 1 minute), no need to flip. Remove and cool.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • Whip cream with icing sugar and vanilla to medium peaks.

   • Cut mango into thick strips or chunks.

4. Assemble:

   • Lay a pancake flat, place mango and cream in the center.

   • Fold edges inward like a burrito to form a neat parcel, then flip seam-side down.

   • Dust with icing sugar and garnish with mint, if desired.

5. Chill or Serve:

   • Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to firm up before slicing.

Nutrients (Per serving, estimated)

• Calories: ~250–300 kcal

• Fat: ~18g

• Carbohydrates: ~22g

• Protein: ~3–4g

A Tropical Take on a Classic Dessert

Inspired by the East-meets-West fusion that defines much of Hong Kong’s culinary scene, Mango Pancakes reflect the refinement of European pâtisserie with a distinctly Asian flair. They resemble rolled crêpes or thin omelets, but what sets them apart is the vibrant yellow hue and the use of only one cooked side—leaving the inside soft and smooth for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The filling is equally important. The cream is lightly sweetened and softly whipped, infused with real vanilla to complement the natural sweetness of the mango. When wrapped in the tender pancake and sliced open, the combination is nothing short of delightful: creamy, fruity, airy, and rich all at once.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mango Pancakes strike a rare balance: they are light yet decadent, sophisticated yet playful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Each bite offers layers of texture—the gentle pull of the pancake, the airy lift of whipped cream, and the juicy burst of ripe mango. The dessert is cool, creamy, and refreshing, making it perfect for warm weather, special occasions, or when you simply want to impress.

The recipe also allows for customization, from adjusting the sweetness of the cream to adding flavor infusions like coconut, lime zest, or even a splash of mango purée in the batter. It’s a dessert that feels fancy without the fuss.

Flavor and Texture Highlights

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the mango, so choosing a ripe, sweet variety is key. Indian Alphonso or Pakistani Sindhri mangoes are ideal for their creamy flesh and rich aroma. When combined with cool whipped cream and a thin pancake wrapper, they shine as the centerpiece of this dessert.

The pancakes themselves are silky and soft with just enough structure to wrap without tearing. Cooking them on one side only ensures they stay tender and pliable, while the touch of food coloring gives them a signature sunny hue. The whipped cream, when made just to medium peaks, maintains volume while remaining smooth and spreadable.

Effortless Elegance

Despite their impressive look, Mango Pancakes are surprisingly easy to make. The batter requires no yeast or resting time beyond cooling the cooked pancakes. A simple hand whisk or blender will give you a smooth, lump-free mixture. Cooking the pancakes is also a breeze—they cook quickly in under a minute and need no flipping, making the process fast and low-stress.

Whipping the cream is straightforward, and the assembly is fun: a satisfying wrapping process that mimics gift wrapping or burrito folding. Once assembled, the pancakes can be chilled for 30 minutes to help them set, or served right away for a soft, cloud-like bite.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Mango Pancakes make a standout addition to any meal or gathering. Serve them at:

• Brunch: As a fresh alternative to heavy baked goods.

• Tea Time: A delicate treat with hot tea or iced jasmine green tea.

• Dinner Parties: Plated individually and garnished with mint for an elegant dessert.

• Birthdays or Holidays: A refreshing break from rich cakes or puddings.

They’re also perfect for summer events, as the chilled filling provides a light and cooling finish.

Tips for Success

• Choose ripe mangoes that are fragrant and give slightly when pressed. Avoid fibrous or underripe varieties, as they may affect texture.

• Cook pancakes one side only to keep them tender and easy to fold. Do not overcook or let them brown.

• Let pancakes cool before filling. Warm pancakes will melt the cream and make assembly difficult.

• Use medium-stiff whipped cream. Over-whipping can cause graininess, while under-whipping may lead to a runny filling.

• Chill before slicing. While not mandatory, chilling helps the pancakes firm up and hold their shape when cut.

Delicious Variations

Mango Pancakes are endlessly adaptable. Try some of these flavor and ingredient twists:

• Coconut Cream Filling: Add coconut milk or shredded coconut to the whipped cream.

• Mango-Lime Zest: Add lime zest to the cream for a zingy contrast.

• Berry Bliss: Replace mango with strawberries or raspberries for a new fruity profile.

• Matcha Pancakes: Add matcha powder to the batter for a Japanese-inspired twist.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a light drizzle of dark chocolate sauce for added richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these chilled, lightly dusted with icing sugar, and garnished with a sprig of mint or a sliver of mango. A side of mango purée or fruit coulis elevates the plate, and a dollop of whipped cream or a quenelle of mango sorbet makes for a more decadent presentation.

Pair them with floral teas, sparkling water with citrus, or even a lightly sweet dessert wine for an elegant finish to a meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Mango Pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for short periods:

• Make-ahead pancakes: Cook and cool the pancakes, then stack them with parchment between layers and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

• Whipped cream: Can be made ahead and stored in a sealed container for 24 hours.

• Assembled pancakes: Once filled, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Best served within a few hours for optimal texture.

• Freezing is not recommended, as the whipped cream may lose volume and the pancake texture may change.

Nutritional Highlights

Each serving of Mango Pancakes offers approximately 250 to 300 calories, making them a lighter dessert option compared to baked pastries or cream-laden cakes. Mangoes are naturally rich in vitamins A and C, while the whipped cream contributes satisfying fats for a creamy mouthfeel. The pancakes themselves are light and thin, providing structure without excess calories.

For a slightly lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream or replace part of the cream with Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the sugar in both the batter and the filling without sacrificing much in taste, especially if the mangoes are naturally sweet.

Conclusion

Mango Pancakes are a delightful blend of airy, creamy, fruity, and refreshing—a dessert that feels luxurious yet remains simple to make. With their delicate texture and tropical flavor, they’re perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Whether you’re exploring new brunch ideas, adding variety to your dessert table, or just embracing your love for mangoes, these pancakes are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Elegant enough for a dinner party yet approachable enough for a lazy weekend, Mango Pancakes are a celebration of texture and taste in every bite. Once you’ve had them, they’ll earn a permanent spot in your favorite dessert recipes.