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Austrian·Breakfast

Kaiserschmarn Austrian Torn Pancake

A light, fluffy, soufflé-style Austrian pancake that is torn into 'nuggets' and caramelized in the pan with butter and sugar. Known as 'Emperor's Mess,' this dish foregoes baking powder for whipped egg whites to achieve a superior texture.

Prep

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Cook

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Total

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Serves

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Method

  1. 01

    Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a medium bowl, combine the egg yolks, white sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Add the all-purpose flour and cold milk, then whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.

    Step 1
    Watch · 1:25
  2. 02

    In a separate clean bowl, add a few drops of lemon juice to the egg whites. Whisk the whites until they reach the 'shaving cream' stage, forming soft, dull peaks that hold their shape but are not dry or stiff.

    Step 2
    Watch · 2:44
  3. 03

    Transfer the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. Gently fold the two components together using a spatula until just barely combined and no white streaks remain. Do not overmix, as you want to preserve the air bubbles for a light texture.

    Step 3
    Watch · 3:15
  4. 04

    Melt a generous amount of butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the batter, cover the pan, and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and bubbles begin to break through the surface.

    Step 4
    Watch · 4:22
  5. 05

    Cut the pancake into quarters with your spatula to make flipping easier. Turn each quarter over and cook for another minute. Once set, use two spatulas to tear or cut the pancake into small, bite-sized 'nuggets.'

    Step 5
    Watch · 5:15
  6. 06

    Add a few small pieces of butter and a sprinkle of sugar to the pan. Toss and flip the pancake pieces over medium heat for a minute or two until the edges are caramelized and slightly crispy. Serve immediately with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of plum preserves.

    Step 6
    Watch · 7:05

From Chef John

  • “If you're one of these cooks that suffers from separation anxiety, you should give this technique a try.”
  • “We're making pancakes, not a soufflé, so do not stress about knocking too much air out of the whites.”
  • “You are, after all, the Michael Scarn of your Kaiserschmarn.”