Want to buy authentic Polish food in the US? Head to Polana.com and enter code POLISHFOODIES15 at checkout to get 15% OFF (for order of $100+ before tax & shipping).

Polish Elderflower Pancakes Recipe – Placki Z Kwiatów Czarnego Bzu

Name: Polish Elderflower Pancake Recipe - Placki Z Kwiatów Czarnego Bzu
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 10-15 elder flowers; 1 cup (130g) of all-purpose flour; 1 - 1 ½ cup of milk or plant-based milk; 2 tsps of sugar or xylitol; ½ tsp of baking powder; a pinch of salt; oil to fry

May 23, 2024

Jump to Recipe

As the days grow longer and the world bursts into bloom, Polish cuisine embraces the season with a delightful treat – Polish elderflower Pancakes. These delicate pancakes are infused with the subtle fragrance of elderflower blossoms, creating a light and refreshing lunch (or dessert!) experience.

Are Elderflowers Edible?

Yes! Elderflowers, the fragrant white blossoms of the elderberry tree, have been used for centuries in Europe for their culinary and medicinal properties.

In Poland, these delicate blooms hold a special place. They are seen as a symbol of renewal and rebirth, perfectly embodying the spirit of spring. Their subtle sweetness and floral aroma complement pancakes perfectly, offering a unique and delightful flavor profile.

The Polish name for elderflower is “czarny bez” which may be translated as the “black lilac”. But wait- why it’s called black if the flowers are white? The answer is simple. After flowering, the elderberry tree produces clusters of small berries that can range in color from deep purple to almost black, but they’re not truly black.

Cultural Significance of Elderflowers in Poland

Beyond their culinary uses, elderflowers hold a significant place in Polish culture and folklore. Here are some fascinating aspects:

Folk Medicine: Traditionally, elderflower tea was believed to have healing properties, used to combat colds, coughs, and even fevers.
Symbolism: Elderflowers are often associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings. They are sometimes woven into wreaths for May Day celebrations or used to decorate homes during spring.
Legends and Beliefs: Polish folklore is rich with stories about elderflowers. Some tales associate them with fairies and good luck, while others warn of the dangers of using elderflowers improperly.

How To Make Polish Elderflower Pancakes?

Here’s a video where I am showing how to make Polish elderflower pancakes, step by step.

I am also explaining everything below.

Step 1 – Pick The Flowers

Choose elderflowers that don’t grow close to roads. That way, you won’t need to wash them (that will remove the fragrance a bit).

Step 2 – Prepare the Batter

Making elderflower pancakes is surprisingly simple. You’ll start with a basic pancake batter, using ingredients readily available in most kitchens.

Simply mix 1 cup of flour with 1 cup of milk or plant-based milk, 2 tsps of sugar and ½ tsp of baking powder.

You may add more milk or 2 eggs as an alternative.

Step 3 – Dip Elderflowers In The Batter

Heat up the oil

Gently dip the elderflowers in the batter. Place them immediately in hot oil.

Step 4 – Fry The Pancakes & Remove The Stems

Heat up the oil. Fry the pancakes on one side. Carefully remove the stems with scissors, then turn the pancakes upside down and fry until they change color to golden brown.

Step 5 – Remove Excessive Fat & Eat!

After frying, place the pancakes on a plate lined with paper towels to remove the excessive fat. Eat right after frying – Polish elderflower pancakes taste best fresh.