British Pancake Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Guide

Updated On: October 7, 2025

British pancakes are a cherished tradition, often enjoyed on Pancake Day (Shrove Tuesday) or as a delightful breakfast treat. Unlike their American counterparts, these pancakes are thinner, more delicate, and perfect for rolling or folding with your favorite fillings.

If you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply want to try a plant-based twist on this classic, this vegan British pancake recipe is just for you. It manages to capture the authentic texture and taste without using eggs or dairy, relying on simple, wholesome ingredients.

This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite toppings, from fresh fruits and maple syrup to savory options like sautéed mushrooms. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based cooking, these pancakes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into making these perfect vegan British pancakes that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, this vegan British pancake recipe is incredibly simple and uses pantry staples like flour, plant-based milk, and a bit of oil. No complicated substitutes or rare ingredients are required.

The batter comes together quickly, and the pancakes cook up light and perfectly thin, just like traditional British pancakes.

Additionally, these pancakes are versatile and work well with both sweet and savory accompaniments, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a quick snack. Plus, by going vegan, you avoid eggs and dairy, which means these pancakes are easier on digestion and suitable for those with allergies or dietary preferences.

And finally, making pancakes from scratch is always satisfying—and with this recipe, you get all the joy of flipping pancakes without compromising on flavor or texture. For more delicious vegan dishes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour – sifted for smooth batter
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) plant-based milk (such as oat, almond, or soy milk)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (plus extra for frying)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to add a slight sweetness)
  • ½ tsp baking powder (optional, for slight fluffiness)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for sweet pancakes)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Non-stick frying pan or crepe pan
  • Spatula
  • Serving plate
  • Ladle or measuring cup for pouring batter

Instructions

  1. Combine the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder (if using), and salt. This ensures a lump-free batter and even distribution of ingredients.
  2. Add the wet ingredients. Slowly pour in the plant-based milk and vegetable oil, then add the vanilla extract if using. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should be quite thin—similar to heavy cream. If it’s too thick, add a splash more plant milk.
  3. Rest the batter. Let the batter sit for 10 minutes at room temperature. This helps the flour absorb the liquid, resulting in tender pancakes.
  4. Heat your pan. Place a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the surface. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Cook the pancakes. Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour enough batter into the pan to thinly cover the bottom (about ¼ cup). Quickly tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter evenly and thinly.
  6. Flip carefully. Cook the pancake for 1-2 minutes until the edges lift easily and the underside is golden brown. Use a spatula to flip the pancake and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute on the other side.
  7. Keep warm and repeat. Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed.
  8. Serve warm. Enjoy your vegan British pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings or fillings.

Tips & Variations

For perfectly thin pancakes, make sure to swirl the batter quickly after pouring it into the pan.

  • Flour alternatives: You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends for a different texture and taste.
  • Flavor options: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice note.
  • Savory version: Omit sugar and vanilla, add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the batter, and serve with sautéed mushrooms or vegan cheese.
  • Filling ideas: Classic lemon juice and sugar, maple syrup with berries, or a dollop of coconut yogurt with sliced bananas.
  • Make ahead: Batter can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before using.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Pancake (approx.)
Calories 110 kcal
Carbohydrates 18 g
Protein 2 g
Fat 3.5 g
Fiber 1 g
Sugar 2 g
Sodium 120 mg

Serving Suggestions

Vegan British pancakes are incredibly versatile. For a classic approach, serve them with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a sprinkle of caster sugar.

This simple combo is a traditional favorite and highlights the lightness of the pancakes perfectly.

For a heartier breakfast, try topping them with sliced bananas, strawberries, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Adding a spoonful of nut butter or vegan yogurt can provide additional creaminess and protein.

If you prefer savory, fill your pancakes with sautéed mushrooms, vegan cheese, or smoky tofu. You might also like to check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for inspiration on vegan-friendly savory dishes to pair.

Conclusion

This vegan British pancake recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat without any animal products. Its simplicity means you can easily whip it up on any morning, impressing family or guests with fluffy, thin pancakes that taste just like the original.

Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize it with your favorite sweet or savory toppings, making it perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to try something new, these pancakes offer a delicious and inclusive option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Don’t forget to experiment with different plant-based milks and flavorings to find your perfect pancake combo.

For more inspiring recipes, explore our Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for a meaty main or sweeten your day with the Lemon Straws Recipe.

📖 Recipe Card: British Pancake Recipe Vegan

Description: A simple and delicious vegan version of traditional British pancakes. Light, thin, and perfect with your favorite toppings.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk (e.g. almond or oat milk)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Oil or vegan butter for frying

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually add plant-based milk, maple syrup, oil, and vanilla extract while whisking to form a smooth batter.
  3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or vegan butter.
  4. Pour a small ladle of batter into the pan, swirling to spread thinly.
  5. Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges lift and bottom is golden, then flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.
  6. Repeat with remaining batter and serve warm with desired toppings.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 24 g

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “British Pancake Recipe Vegan”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A simple and delicious vegan version of traditional British pancakes. Light, thin, and perfect with your favorite toppings.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT10M”, “totalTime”: “PT20M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 cup all-purpose flour”, “1 1/2 cups plant-based milk (e.g. almond or oat milk)”, “2 tablespoons vegetable oil”, “1 tablespoon maple syrup”, “1 teaspoon baking powder”, “1/4 teaspoon salt”, “1 teaspoon vanilla extract”, “Oil or vegan butter for frying”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Gradually add plant-based milk, maple syrup, oil, and vanilla extract while whisking to form a smooth batter.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or vegan butter.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour a small ladle of batter into the pan, swirling to spread thinly.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges lift and bottom is golden, then flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Repeat with remaining batter and serve warm with desired toppings.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “150 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “3 g”, “fatContent”: “5 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “24 g”}}

Photo of author

Marta K

Leave a Comment

X