Mango Pancakes: 6 Easy Steps to Tropical Bliss

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If you’re looking to brighten up your mornings or add a splash of sunshine to brunch, Mango Pancakes are about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine biting into a soft and delicate crepe, perfectly golden and infused with the subtle taste of mango, only to discover a creamy, cloud-like filling paired with the juiciest cubes of ripe mango. Every bite offers a burst of tropical flavor balanced with silky smooth cream and just the right touch of sweetness.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this mango pancake recipe is accessible, rewarding, and guaranteed to impress family and friends. If you’re looking for more tropical dessert inspiration, our tropical mango cheesecake delight is another crowd-pleaser that celebrates this beloved fruit.

Mango Pancakes not only awaken your taste buds but also bring a visual delight with their vibrant yellow color, creamy filling, and juicy fruit, making them perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something exotic. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this mango pancake recipe is accessible, rewarding, and guaranteed to impress family and friends.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Mango Pancakes

  • Bursting with fresh mango flavor in every bite
  • Light, delicate crepes that melt in your mouth
  • Perfect alongside other breakfast favorites like our perfect scrambled eggs for a complete brunch spread
  • Beautiful presentation—vivid golden rolls with lush cream and jewel-like mango pieces
  • Surprisingly simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps
  • Customizable for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a sweet snack
  • Kid-friendly and perfect for entertaining or treating yourself

Ingredients for Mango Pancakes

Creating the perfect Mango Pancakes is all about sourcing quality ingredients and balancing flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup full-fat milk – This forms the base for the crepe, adding richness and a tender texture
  • 1/3 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour) – Gives structure and holds the crepe together
  • 1/4 cup cornflour/cornstarch – Ensures the pancakes come out silky soft and almost translucent
  • 1/4 cup icing sugar (powdered sugar) – Adds a faint sweetness to the batter without overpowering the mango
  • 3 large eggs (about 55-60g/2oz each) – For binding, richness, and creating that classic crepe texture
  • 1/4 tsp yellow food coloring (optional) – To boost the sunny yellow hue, making your pancakes irresistibly bright
  • Canola oil spray – For greasing the pan and preventing sticking
  • 2 large ripe mangoes – Peeled and cut into thick, juicy strips (about 10-12 pieces per fruit). Ripe mangoes are key for optimum flavor and color
  • 3/4 cup thickened/heavy cream (cold) – The base of the dreamy, fluffy filling
  • 3 tbsp icing sugar (sifted) – Sweetens and stabilizes the cream filling
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds classic aroma and depth to the cream

Optional ingredients and garnishes:

  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
  • Diced extra mango or tropical fruits, for serving
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

It’s important to use high-quality, ripe mangoes, which not only bring incredible flavor but also vibrant color and juiciness to the filling. Using full-fat dairy makes the cream and pancakes extra luscious; however, substitutions are possible if desired.

Necessary Tools

Making Mango Pancakes at home doesn’t require professional equipment, but having the right tools prevents frustration and allows for a smooth, enjoyable cooking process.

  • 18cm/7-inch non-stick frying pan – The ideal size for crepes and essential for even, golden pancakes that release easily
  • Mixing bowls – One for the batter, one for whipping cream; it’s helpful if the cream bowl is metal or glass and chilled
  • Whisk – For quickly creating a smooth, lump-free batter
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve – To sift flour and sugars, resulting in the silkiest pancake and cream
  • Measuring cups and spoons – Precision ensures reliable results every time
  • Rubber or silicone spatula – Loosens pancake edges without scratching the pan
  • Canola oil spray – For a quick, even coating of the pan and perfect release
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer – Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks is much easier with an electric mixer, but a strong arm and hand whisk will do in a pinch
  • Sharp chef’s knife – For cleanly peeling and slicing mangoes into even pieces
  • Cutting board – The best surface for prepping fruit and assembling pancakes
  • Large plate or wire rack – For cooling the cooked pancakes before filling
  • Serving platter or plates – Present your beautiful finished mango pancakes with style

Bonus tools: A piping bag can help distribute the cream evenly, while a decorative sieve allows you to dust the pancakes with extra powdered sugar for presentation.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

One of the joys of Mango Pancakes is their versatility—there are countless ways to adapt Mango Pancakes based on your dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or creative whims. Here are some thoughtful additions and substitutions to consider:

  • Dairy-Free Options: Substitute the full-fat milk with your favorite non-dairy milk (such as coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk) for crepes that are just as tender but suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan diets. Heavy cream can be swapped for coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream.
  • Gluten-Free Flour: Use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour and cornstarch combination in equal proportions. Because crepes are so thin, gluten-free flours generally perform well.
  • Sugar Alternatives: Replace the icing sugar with a powdered sugar substitute like erythritol, stevia blend, or coconut sugar powder for a reduced-sugar variant.
  • Additional Fruits: While mango is the star, you can add papaya, pineapple, or banana for extra tropical flair, or a handful of fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Enhanced Flavor: Incorporate a touch of lime zest or juice in the cream for a citrusy boost, or a drizzle of honey atop the crepes for extra natural sweetness.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the pancake batter for deeper flavor notes that pair well with mango.
  • Presentation: For extra festivity, sprinkle chopped pistachios, toasted coconut flakes, or a scatter of edible flowers on top just before serving.

When making substitutions, consider how each change might affect taste, texture, color, and overall presentation. For instance, using coconut milk will infuse your pancakes and cream with a subtle coconut note, harmonizing beautifully with mango. Similarly, gluten-free flours may require a touch more liquid to achieve a pourable, thin batter.

The most important ingredient, however, remains the mango—choose fruit that’s fragrant, slightly soft to the touch, and richly golden for the best taste and presentation.

How to Make Mango Pancakes

Bringing Mango Pancakes to life is an enjoyable and rewarding culinary adventure. The process is straightforward—make the crepe batter, cook the pancakes, whip up the dreamy cream, prepare juicy mangoes, and assemble everything together into heavenly golden rolls. Take your time to let the batter chill and don’t rush the assembly for best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

Begin by pouring the full-fat milk into a large bowl. Sift in the plain flour, cornstarch, and icing sugar to ensure a lump-free and silky mixture. Whisk thoroughly until all the ingredients are fully integrated and the batter is smooth. Add the eggs and yellow food coloring (if using) and continue whisking until the batter is thin and well combined. The yellow food coloring gives that signature sunny hue, boosting the pancakes’ visual appeal. Refrigerate the batter for at least one hour—this step helps to rest the gluten for ultra-tender crepes and enhances the final texture.

Step 2: Cook the Crepes

After chilling, gently stir the batter to reincorporate any settled flour. Measure out 45 ml (about 3 tablespoons) of batter per crepe. Heat a lightly oiled, non-stick 7-inch pan over medium-low heat. Pour the batter into the center—listen for a gentle sizzle—and swirl to cover the pan in a thin, even layer. Cook each crepe for 45 seconds to 1 minute until the center is set and the underside has no brown spots.

Using a rubber spatula, start loosening the edges halfway through. Once ready, flip the crepe onto a cutting board upside-down and allow it to cool. Continue with the remaining batter, stacking crepes as you go. Cool all crepes completely before assembling so the cream won’t melt.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Filling

Just before assembly, place your chilled heavy cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract into a cold bowl. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the mixture on high until stiff peaks form—about two minutes. The cream should be thick but smooth, able to hold its shape for rolling without being grainy or over-whipped.

Step 4: Prepare and Slice Mangoes

Peel the ripe mangoes, removing all skin and slicing the flesh away from the pit. Cut the mango into pieces about 7 x 2.5 x 1 cm (approximately 3 x 1 x 1/2 inch), aiming for even, chunky strips. These perfectly sized pieces will provide both taste and texture, ensuring mango goodness in every bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Mango Pancakes

Lay a cooled crepe flat on your work surface, with the side once in contact with the pan facing up. Spread a 1 cm (about 1/3 inch) layer of whipped cream along one third of the pancake, shaping it to match a piece of mango. Place a slice or two of mango on top. Roll the crepe burrito-style—fold one edge over the filling, tuck in the sides, and gently roll until seam-side down. Repeat with remaining crepes, cream, and mango.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Mango Pancakes are best enjoyed immediately, as the cream is at its most luscious and the crepes are tender. Arrange the pancakes seam-side down on a plate, with the vibrant mango and creamy filling peeking through. Dust with extra powdered sugar, top with mint, or scatter extra mango pieces for a beautiful presentation reminiscent of sunny tropical days.

Serving Suggestions

Showcasing Mango Pancakes is as much about aesthetics as it is about flavor. Serve them rolled and arranged on a white platter to let the golden color pop. Garnish with extra mango cubes or a sprig of fresh mint for a burst of green. These pancakes are perfect with a side of hot tea or tropical fruit juice. If you want to expand the spread for brunch, they pair beautifully with coconut yogurt, sliced bananas, or berries. For dessert, drizzle a bit of honey or serve with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream. For festive occasions, you can even present them layered, crepe-cake style, for an impressive visual twist!

More Delicious Treats You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these mango pancakes, you’ll also love our strawberry cream cheese pie and coconut sugar cloud tarts – both feature the same light, creamy textures that make these desserts so irresistible

Pro Tips & Tricks

  • Always let your crepe batter rest for at least an hour in the fridge. This crucial step relaxes the gluten and improves the texture of your pancakes.
  • Use a non-stick pan and a light spray of oil for the best results. Too much oil or butter will cause uneven cooking and browning.
  • The crepes should be thin and pliable, not thick. If your batter feels too thick, add a splash of extra milk until it flows easily.
  • When cooking crepes, medium-low heat is ideal. Too high and they’ll brown; too low and they’ll stick or become tough.
  • Whip your cream just before assembling to preserve its volume. Over-whipped cream turns grainy, so stop mixing as soon as stiff peaks form.
  • Don’t overfill the crepes or they’ll burst when rolled. Less is more—you can always offer extra mango and cream on the side.
  • Mango Pancakes are best enjoyed fresh. Prepare all your components ahead, but assemble just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
  • For extra shine and flavor, brush the finished pancakes lightly with warmed apricot jam or a mango glaze.

How to Store Mango Pancakes

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), store the crepes, whipped cream, and mango filling separately. Stack cooled crepes with baking paper or plastic wrap between each so they don’t stick together. Store the crepes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The whipped cream should be kept cold and may need a gentle re-whip before use. Pre-cut mango pieces should be sealed in a container and used within 24 hours for maximum freshness. Assembled Mango Pancakes do not store well, as the crepes may become soggy and the cream may collapse, so it’s best to assemble only what you’ll eat right away.

General Information

Mango Pancakes originated in Hong Kong’s vibrant dessert scene, blending elements of traditional French crepes and luscious tropical fruit. Over time, they became a beloved treat at dim sum restaurants, and their fame spread worldwide as foodies embraced their unique combination of textures and flavors.

The modern Mango Pancake is appreciated in many cuisines and adapts easily to Western kitchens. The hallmark of a great Mango Pancake is vibrant color, tender pancake texture, and a generous filling of real fruit and airy cream. They are naturally vegetarian, and can be adapted to fit gluten-free, dairy-free, or reduced sugar diets with simple substitutions. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a sweet snack, or as an elegant dessert, Mango Pancakes are sure to win hearts wherever they go.

FAQs

What are mango pancakes made of?

Mango Pancakes feature a thin, tender crepe (made from milk, flour, cornflour, sugar, eggs, and optional food coloring), filled with lightly sweetened whipped cream and fresh mango slices. The result is a light and refreshing treat with the taste and texture of a tropical dessert.

Is mango good on pancakes?

Absolutely! Mangoes are fragrant, juicy, and slightly tangy, making them the perfect complement to the mild, buttery flavor of pancakes. Their sunny color and natural sweetness enhance both taste and appearance, making mango pancakes a standout treat.

Can I just add fruit to pancake mix?

While mixing fruit directly into a traditional American pancake batter works fine, Mango Pancakes are best assembled by rolling silky crepes around clouds of cream and chunks of mango. This preserves the delicate texture of the crepe and allows each bite to include both fruit and filling.

Where did mango pancakes come from?

Mango Pancakes originated in Hong Kong as a popular dessert at modern Chinese restaurants, especially dim sum houses. They quickly became famous for their elegant presentation and innovative use of tropical fruit.

Can I make Mango Pancakes ahead of time?

You can prepare the crepes, cream, and mango slices in advance, but for best results, assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

How do I keep the pancakes from sticking to the pan?

Ensure your non-stick pan is properly preheated and lightly greased with oil spray. If crepes are still sticking, a bit more oil or lowering the temperature usually helps.

Can I freeze Mango Pancakes?

Freezing is not recommended for assembled pancakes, as the cream and mango lose their texture. However, you can freeze unfilled crepes wrapped tightly for up to one month.

Conclusion

Mango Pancakes are an irresistible fusion of rich cream, juicy mango, and silky crepe—a true celebration of flavor, texture, and color. Whether you’re recreating a beloved Hong Kong dessert or exploring new brunch territory, this recipe delivers tropical joy in every bite. So brighten your table and your tastebuds with this delightful treat, and savor a little sunshine all year round.

Nutritional Information

A serving of two Mango Pancakes contains approximately:

  • 320 calories
  • 8g protein
  • 14g fat (predominantly from cream and eggs)
  • 44g carbohydrates (mostly from flour, sugar, and mango)
  • 1g fiber
  • 22g sugar (natural and added sugars)
  • 90mg cholesterol
  • 115mg sodium

Keep in mind, values will vary with ingredient brands and serving size. For lighter versions, try low-fat dairy, sugar alternatives, or gluten-free flours. Despite their decadence, Mango Pancakes offer vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants thanks to generous fresh mango, making them a balanced treat when enjoyed in moderation.

Ready to savor every bite of Mango Pancakes? Dive in and enjoy the sweet, golden taste of the tropics at your own table!

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How to Make Mango Pancakes

Mango Pancakes – Fluffy Crepes with Fresh Mango & Cream


  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including refrigeration and cooling time)
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mango Pancakes are delicate, thin crepes filled with silky whipped cream and sweet, juicy mango slices. A popular treat in Hong Kong-style dessert cafés, these pancakes balance the soft, lightly sweetened crepe with rich cream and the fresh brightness of perfectly ripe mango. Each pancake is individually hand-rolled, ensuring a beautiful presentation and a luxurious bite every time. The dessert is best enjoyed fresh as the crepe and cream combine for a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for special occasions or tropical-inspired gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup full-fat milk
  • 1/3 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour)
  • 1/4 cup cornflour (cornstarch)
  • 1/4 cup icing sugar (powdered sugar)
  • 3 large eggs (55-60g each)
  • 1/4 teaspoon yellow food colouring
  • Canola oil spray
  • 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced into 1012 pieces
  • 3/4 cup thickened (heavy) cream, cold
  • 3 tablespoons icing sugar (powdered sugar), sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, add milk. Sift in flour, cornflour, and icing sugar. Whisk until smooth.
  2. Add eggs and food colouring. Whisk until batter is combined and lump-free; mixture will be thin.
  3. Refrigerate batter for 1 hour.
  4. Mix batter again; measure out 45ml (3 tbsp) per crepe.
  5. Heat a lightly oiled 18cm/7″ non-stick pan over medium-low heat.
  6. Pour batter into pan, swirl to coat base, and cook for 45 seconds to 1 minute until set.
  7. Loosen edges with spatula halfway through; flip crepe out upside down onto a board. Ensure the surface is set and underside has no golden patches.
  8. Repeat process for remaining crepes, stacking finished ones.
  9. Allow crepes to fully cool for 1 hour before filling.
  10. For the cream, beat cold heavy cream with icing sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  11. Place a crepe on the surface (pan-contact side up), spread 1cm thick cream in the shape of a mango slice one-third up the pancake, and top with a mango slice.
  12. Roll crepe burrito-style with mango and cream inside. Place seam-side down.
  13. Repeat for remaining pancakes. Serve immediately.

Notes

Substitute cornflour with extra plain flour for a less tender crepe, or swap mango with strawberries for variation. Make crepes a day ahead and refrigerate, but only fill and roll before serving to keep them fresh. Store unfilled pancakes between parchment in the fridge. For troubleshooting, ensure pan is not too hot (no browning) and batter is well mixed after refrigeration to avoid settled flour. Whip cream when cold for best results; overwhipping can lead to grainy texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop (Pan-Cooked)
  • Cuisine: Hong Kong

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pancake
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 19g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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