These pandan pancakes with coconut custard filling are a delightful twist on a traditional Southeast Asian dessert, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. With their bright green color, fluffy texture, and sweet, creamy filling, they’re as beautiful to look at as they are satisfying to eat. Made with aromatic pandan and rich coconut milk, these pancakes are both indulgent and naturally fragrant. Ideal for college students looking for an easy yet unique back-to-school breakfast, this dish brings an exotic flair to everyday cooking without requiring complicated techniques. The contrasting textures and complementary flavors make it suitable not only for breakfast but also as a dessert or mid-day snack that adds an uplifting, tropical note to your meals. The ease of preparation and adaptability also make it a perfect go-to for those seeking something new yet manageable for weekday routines.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup pandan juice or pandan extract
- 3/4 cup coconut milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Butter or oil for cooking
For Coconut Custard Filling:
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine the pandan juice, coconut milk, and egg. Mix well.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat a lightly greased nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Pour a small amount of batter into the pan to form small pancakes. Cook until bubbles appear, then flip and cook the other side.
- For the filling, combine the coconut milk, sugar, egg yolk, and cornstarch in a small saucepan.
- Stir over medium heat until thickened. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt, then let it cool.
- Spoon the custard onto one side of each pancake, fold, and press gently to seal.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrients
- Calories: 180 per pancake
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 90mg
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes this recipe a standout is its combination of visual appeal and deep cultural roots. The vivid green of the pandan not only signals freshness and vibrance but also sets it apart from the usual golden-brown pancakes we’re used to. The aroma of pandan, which is often compared to a mix of vanilla and jasmine, turns each bite into a sensory delight. Pair that with the creamy, subtly sweet coconut custard, and you’ve got a dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and culinary adventure.
Another reason this recipe shines is its sheer versatility. You can adjust the size of the pancakes depending on whether you’re serving them as a breakfast main or a dainty dessert. The custard can also be prepped in advance, making it a time-saving option for busy mornings or weekend meal prep. For students and working professionals, this is a dish that brings gourmet flavor into your home without requiring professional skills or exotic tools. Whether served warm straight from the skillet or packed into a container for later, these pandan pancakes bring something unique and joyful to the table.
The Benefits of the Ingredients
Each component of this dish carries both flavor and function. Pandan juice or extract provides more than just a pleasant green hue—it is known for its antioxidant properties and mild sedative effects, which can be calming during stressful mornings or late-night study sessions. Its aromatic profile enhances the sensory enjoyment of the meal, promoting a sense of well-being.
Coconut milk is another nutritional gem. It is rich in lauric acid, a healthy fat that supports immune function. It also contains essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, which are vital for heart and muscle health. The egg used in both the pancake batter and custard offers protein and choline, which supports brain function—a bonus for those heading back to school.
Cornstarch in the custard acts as a gentle thickener without the need for gelatin, making the recipe vegetarian-friendly. It contributes to the custard’s smooth consistency while keeping the ingredient list short and accessible. Finally, using minimal sugar means you can control the sweetness level based on your preferences, making it adaptable for kids, adults, and those looking to reduce sugar intake.
These ingredients not only work together harmoniously but also support a range of dietary needs and lifestyles. The dish can be modified to be gluten-free by using rice flour or another alternative, and dairy-free by sticking with coconut milk throughout. It’s a wonderful example of how delicious food can also be nutritious and accommodating.
Cooking Tips
To make sure your pandan pancakes turn out perfectly, consider a few helpful tips. First, let the batter rest for about 10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and results in a more cohesive texture. When cooking the pancakes, use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned griddle to prevent sticking. A medium heat is key—too high and the pancakes will brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
If you’re using pandan extract instead of fresh juice, be mindful of its strength; it’s quite concentrated. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste. For the custard, low and slow is the rule. Constant stirring ensures that it thickens evenly without forming lumps or scrambling the yolk. Once thickened, chill it slightly for easier spreading.
If you’re planning ahead, both the pancakes and custard can be made a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble just before serving. You can even freeze the cooked pancakes—just thaw and reheat them gently in a pan or microwave. For packed lunches or snacks, fold the pancakes into little pockets or roll them up like wraps. They hold together well and maintain their texture even after sitting out for a while.
Want to make them even more indulgent? Add a little toasted shredded coconut to the filling or pancake batter. It adds a delightful crunch and enhances the tropical flavor profile even further. You can also play with fillings by swapping in fruit preserves, cream cheese, or even a chocolate spread for a different spin on the same recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These pandan pancakes are flexible enough to suit a range of serving styles. For a quick breakfast, just pair a couple of folded pancakes with a cup of coffee or tea. If you’re going for presentation, arrange them on a platter with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk or coconut syrup and a scattering of fresh tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, or pineapple.
They can be served warm, room temperature, or even slightly chilled depending on your preference. Dust them with powdered sugar for a finishing touch or sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a little nutty contrast. For dessert, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The contrast between warm pancakes and cold ice cream is a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re entertaining or celebrating a special occasion, these pancakes also pair beautifully with Thai milk tea, iced matcha, or a sparkling lychee beverage. Their vibrant green color makes them especially fitting for festive events like birthdays, holidays, or even themed dinners. And for students looking to impress roommates or friends with a fun and easy treat, this recipe offers a memorable yet stress-free option.
Conclusion
Pandan pancakes with coconut custard filling are more than just a quick recipe—they are an expression of cultural flavor, comfort, and creativity. Their bright color, enticing aroma, and lush filling make them a feast for the senses, while their ease of preparation makes them accessible to home cooks of any level. Ideal for back-to-school routines, lazy weekend brunches, or elegant dessert platters, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in any kitchen.
Beyond the flavor, the nutritional benefits of their key ingredients offer a healthier take on indulgence. You don’t have to sacrifice health for taste, or effort for elegance. With just a few simple pantry staples and a touch of exotic flair, you can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Whether you’re craving something sweet, trying out new flavors, or simply feeding loved ones with care, these pandan pancakes are the answer. So go ahead—make a batch, savor the aroma, enjoy every bite, and share the joy.