Holy Crepe! Homemade Pancake Ice Cream?

Discover creative pancake & ice cream combos for Shrove Tuesday! Find recipe ideas, toppings, vegan options & more!

Shrove Tuesday, aka Pancake Tuesday has always been a fun family tradition for us. For years, we celebrated ‘Pancake Sunday’ every week. While we favour delicate crepe-style pancakes over thicker varieties, one thing remains constant – Pancake Day is a delicious highlight of our year!

Pancakes are incredibly versatile, they can be served either savoury or sweet and this year, we’re ‘flipping’ Pancake Day into a celebration of flavour, creativity, and the fun of combining two beloved treats – Pancakes and Ice Cream!

Get ready to ditch the traditional lemon and sugar and enjoy exciting pancake and ice cream ideas.

In this article, we’ll provide a little history of Shrove Tuesday, provide insights into global variations of this much-loved dessert and explain the delicious possibilities of combining pancakes and ice cream. From classic pairings to global-inspired creations, vegan options and gluten-free treats, and of course, we’ll provide inspiration and recipes to elevate your Shrove Tuesday celebration!

Use the following link to head straight to the recipes we’ve shared, or read along to learn more.

What is Shrove Tuesday?

Shrove Tuesday, also affectionately known as Pancake Day, is a tradition steeped in history, marking the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. This year, we celebrate on Tuesday, March 4th.

Historically, it was a practical way to use up the rich, indulgent ingredients in the pantry – butter, eggs, milk, and sugar – before the traditional Lenten fast began. Pancakes became the perfect vessel for these ingredients, transforming them into delicious and satisfying treats.

But why stop there? As ice cream enthusiasts, we believe in taking traditions to the next level! What better way to celebrate Shrove Tuesday than by indulging in the perfect pairing of pancakes and ice cream? Because let’s be honest, what’s a warm, fluffy pancake without a scoop (or two) of something cool and creamy melting on top?

Why is it Tuesday? Why not Shrove Wednesday?

Shrove Tuesday is on a Tuesday because it precedes Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. Lent is a period of 40 days leading up to Easter, traditionally observed by Christians as a time of fasting, reflection, and spiritual preparation.

Why Tuesday?

1. Preparation for Lent: Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of Lent. It’s a time to use up rich, indulgent foods like butter, eggs, and sugar before the fasting period begins.
2. Historical Significance: The term “shrove” comes from the Christian practice of being “shriven,” or confessed and absolved, before the start of Lent. This day was a time for confession and forgiveness, hence the name Shrove Tuesday.
3. Cultural Tradition: The tradition of eating pancakes on this day is believed to have originated in England, where it was a way to use up ingredients that would spoil during the Lenten fast. The day became known as Pancake Day, and the tradition has been passed down through generations.

Why Not Shrove Wednesday?

Shrove Wednesday doesn’t exist because Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, and Shrove Tuesday is the last day before the fasting period begins. The focus is on using up indulgent foods before the start of Lent, so it makes sense to have Shrove Tuesday right before Ash Wednesday.

(Why Ash Wednesday then? Why not Ash Thursday? We could be here a while..! lol).

Why the World Loves Pancakes

Pancakes hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world. Their universal appeal lies in their simplicity: with just a few basic ingredients—flour, eggs, milk, and a touch of sweetener—anyone can whip up a batch of these comforting treats.

But the true magic of pancakes lies in their versatility. Whether you prefer them sweet or savoury, thin or fluffy, pancakes can be adapted to suit any palate.

From a simple drizzle of honey and lemon juice, or maple syrup to elaborate toppings and fillings, pancakes offer endless opportunities for culinary creativity and delicious experimentation.

It’s no wonder they’re a much-loved breakfast, brunch, and dessert staple across cultures!

Pancake Styles Around the World

Pancakes come in a variety of styles and are loved globally. Each culture has its own unique take on this breakfast and dessert staple, from thin and delicate to thick and fluffy.

Let’s look at some popular pancake styles from around the world:

• Thin UK Pancakes: These delicate pancakes are typically enjoyed on Shrove Tuesday, rolled or folded with a simple filling of lemon juice and sugar. Their light texture makes them a perfect canvas for a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a homemade berry compote.
• Fluffy American Pancakes: Known for their thick, fluffy texture, American pancakes are a breakfast favourite often served in stacks with butter and maple syrup. For an extra indulgent treat, top them with a generous scoop of maple ice cream, candied pecans, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup.
• Delicate French Crêpes: These paper-thin pancakes are traditionally enjoyed with sweet or savoury fillings, such as Nutella, jam, or cheese and ham. Their versatility makes them ideal for wrapping around pistachio ice cream and drizzling with rich chocolate sauce.
• Blinis (Russia): These small, yeasted pancakes are a staple of Russian cuisine, often served with savoury toppings like smoked salmon, sour cream, or caviar. For a playful sweet/savoury mix, try them with crème fraîche ice cream and a dollop of caviar, or pair them with a refreshing berry sorbet.
• Dutch Poffertjes: These miniature, puffy pancakes are a popular Dutch treat, traditionally served with butter and powdered sugar. Elevate them with a drizzle of stroopwafel-flavoured syrup and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.
• Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Known for their incredibly light and airy texture, these cloud-like pancakes are a recent sensation. Enhance their delicate flavour by topping them with matcha ice cream and sweet red bean paste for a harmonious blend of Japanese flavours.
• Korean Hotteok (Sweet Stuffed Pancakes): These sweet pancakes are filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, creating a warm and comforting treat. Take them to the next level by filling them with brown sugar ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra burst of flavour.

Homemade Pancake & Ice Cream Recipes

Now for the pièce de résistance – a recipe that combines the best of both worlds—pancakes and ice cream!

Our homemade pancake ice cream captures the warm, comforting flavour of freshly made pancakes in a creamy, frozen treat. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Shrove Tuesday in a truly unique and unforgettable way.

Basic Pancake Recipe (UK Style)

Let’s start with preparing some pancakes for our pancake ice cream, simple and super easy to prepare. This recipe makes thin, crepe-like pancakes perfect for rolling or folding.

Ingredients (Makes about 8-10 pancakes):

• 100g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 300ml milk
• 1 tbsp melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• Pinch of salt

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Make a well in the centre and crack in the eggs.
3. Using a whisk, gradually incorporate the eggs into the flour, starting from the centre and working outwards.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until you have a smooth batter.
5. Stir in the melted butter.
6. Heat a lightly greased frying pan or crepe pan over medium heat.
7. Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan and swirl to coat the surface evenly.
8. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
9. Stack the pancakes as you go, or keep them warm in a low oven.

Nutritional Values (Per Pancake, Approx. 10 Pancakes)

• Calories: 85 kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Sugars: 2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Fibre: 0.5g | Salt: 0.1g

Note: These values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Homemade Pancake Ice Cream Recipe (No-Churn)

Now you’ve got a stack of pancakes, we need to prepare our ice cream base. This recipe uses a no-churn ice cream method for ease of preparation.

Ingredients:

• 400ml double cream
• 397g tin condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4-5 pancakes, cooked and cooled (from the recipe above)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Method:

1. Crumble or chop the cooled pancakes into small pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whip the double cream until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold in the condensed milk and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Swirl in the maple syrup and cinnamon (if using).
5. Gently fold in the crumbled pancakes, being careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and smooth the surface.
7. Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.

Nutritional Values (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)

• Calories: 450 kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Sugars: 40g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Fibre: 1g | Salt: 0.2g

Note: These values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Tips and Variations:

• Caramelised Pancakes: For a richer flavour, caramelise the pancake pieces in a pan with a little butter and sugar before adding them to the ice cream.
• Pancake Swirl: Instead of mixing the pancakes into the ice cream, layer them throughout the container as you pour in the mixture for a marbled effect.

Ice Cream Topping & Fillings

The true magic happens when you start experimenting with ice cream flavours and toppings! Draw inspiration from pancake traditions around the world to create truly unforgettable combinations:

• Classic Pairings: Start with tried-and-true combinations like vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or salted caramel ice cream. These pair beautifully with thin UK-style pancakes or as a topping for fluffy American pancakes.
• Creative Combinations: Elevate your crêpes with a scoop of lemon curd ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a zesty French-inspired treat. Or, embrace a touch of decadence with Nutella swirl ice cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. For a warming, autumnal flavour, try brown butter pecan ice cream drizzled with maple syrup.
• Global Inspiration:
  • Russian Blinis: Serve with crème fraîche ice cream and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and tangy twist on a classic Russian combination.
  • Dutch Poffertjes: Pair these miniature pancakes with a scoop of speculoos (spiced biscuit) ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a taste of the Netherlands.
  • Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Top these cloud-like pancakes with matcha ice cream and sweet red bean paste for a harmonious blend of Japanese flavours.
  • Korean Hotteok: Fill these sweet pancakes with brown sugar ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a warm and comforting treat.
• Homemade Toppings: Take your pancake and ice cream creations to the next level with homemade toppings like hot fudge sauce, caramel sauce, fruit compotes, candied nuts, or freshly whipped cream.

With a little imagination, you can transform your pancakes and ice cream into a culinary adventure, inspired by flavours from around the globe!

Vegan & Gluten-Free Pancake & Ice Cream Options

With a growing awareness of dietary restrictions, it’s now easier than ever to adapt your pancake and ice cream creations to ensure inclusivity for all. After all, everyone deserves to enjoy the fun of Shrove Tuesday!

Here’s how to cater to vegan and gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavour or enjoyment.

Vegan & Gluten-Free Pancakes

The foundation of your pancake masterpiece starts with the right recipe. Experiment with different flours, such as:

• Almond Flour: Adds a slightly nutty flavour and delicate texture. Combine it with a binder-like flaxseed meal for best results.
• Oat Flour: Creates a soft and slightly chewy pancake.
• Buckwheat Flour: Offers a unique, earthy flavour and a slightly denser texture.
• Gluten-Free Blend: Use a pre-made gluten-free flour blend for convenience.
  Replace dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. For egg replacements, try mashed banana, applesauce, or a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water, left to sit for 5 minutes).

Vegan Ice Cream

The joy of vegan ice cream lies in the creative possibilities of making it at home! We have a selection of vegan recipes that utilise plant-based ingredients to create incredibly creamy and flavourful frozen treats.

Here are a few popular bases to explore:

• Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates a rich and decadent ice cream with a subtle coconut flavour. Perfect for tropical-inspired creations or pairing with chocolate.
  • 👉🏽 See our article – Vegan And Dairy-Free Homemade Ice Cream Using Coconut Milk
• Cashew Cream: Soaking and blending cashews creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy base that’s neutral in flavour, allowing other ingredients to shine.
• Almond Milk: Using almond milk, though not as rich as other options, creates a lighter and refreshing ice cream, especially suitable for fruit-based flavours. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a lower-calorie vegan ice cream.
  • 👉🏽 See our article – Homemade (Dairy-Free) Almond Milk Ice Cream Recipe
• Avocado: Believe it or not, avocado can create an incredibly creamy and surprisingly delicious ice cream! It adds richness and healthy fats while remaining relatively neutral in flavour when combined with other ingredients.

Experiment with different flavour combinations and ingredients to create your own signature homemade vegan ice cream for Pancake Day!

Topping Swaps

Complete your vegan and gluten-free pancake and ice cream creations with a variety of delicious toppings:

• Fresh Fruit: Berries, bananas, sliced peaches, and citrus segments are always a winning choice.
• Maple Syrup: A classic vegan-friendly sweetener.
• Date Syrup: A naturally sweet and caramel-like syrup made from dates.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate Sauce: Many brands offer delicious dairy-free chocolate sauces made with dark chocolate or cocoa powder.
• Toasted Nuts: Almonds, pecans, walnuts, and hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavour.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: A light and fluffy alternative to traditional whipped cream.
• Dairy-Free Caramel Sauce: Made with coconut cream or other plant-based ingredients.

By making these simple swaps, you can create delicious and inclusive pancake and ice cream experiences that everyone can enjoy

Pancake Day Ice Cream Challenge!

Why not turn your Shrove Tuesday celebration into a fun and engaging competition for the family? Encourage your friends and family to create their own unique pancake and ice cream masterpieces.

Consider these categories for judging:

• Most Creative: Award points for originality and unexpected flavour combinations.
• Best Flavour Combination: Let the taste buds decide which creation reigns supreme.
• Most Visually Appealing: Award points for presentation and artistic flair.
• Most flipped pancakes: You’ve got to have this category too!

The Final Flip

As Shrove Tuesday approaches, let’s flip tradition on its head and embrace the delicious union of pancakes and ice cream! From revisiting global pancake styles with inspired ice cream twists to creating your own signature pancake ice cream recipes, there’s no limit to the delicious possibilities.

So, this Pancake Day, why not ditch the usual lemon and sugar and embark on a culinary adventure? Gather your family and friends, experiment with flavours, and create a truly unforgettable celebration. After all, what’s life without a little sweet indulgence?

👉🏽 What innovative pancake and ice cream creation will you be flipping up this Shrove Tuesday? Share your delicious ideas in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.

We hope that you have enjoyed our article – Holy Crepe! Homemade Pancake Ice Cream? – and above all, we have inspired you to give our recipe ideas a go for this Pancake Day. If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we will be happy to get back to you.

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