Griddle Cakes vs. Pancakes

So you’re getting ready to eat some breakfast but don’t know if you want griddle cakes or pancakes. Are they the same thing? If you ask someone in the US, then they are the same thing. But people in other countries may not agree.

Hi, there! Michelle here, and I am a huge fan of anything that even resembles a pancake. (Okay, I am team waffle, to be honest – but don’t tell anyone). Although waffles might be my favorite, I still love a good pancake (or griddle cake) every once in a while. My kids love them, too!

If you ever heard the term griddle cake and wondered if it was referencing a pancake, you’ve come to the right place. The answer isn’t as “simple” as you might think. 

Grab your butter and syrup, and let’s discuss.

Are Griddle Cakes the Same as Pancakes?

Take a look at a delicious griddle cake recipe, then look at a yummy pancake recipe. Same thing, right? Basically, yes. In the US, a griddle cake and a pancake are the same.

Both tasty baked treats are designed to be thick and fluffy with the addition of a raising agent, such as baking powder. They’re served with syrup, jam, butter, fruit, and any other topping you desire (try it with whipped cream and sprinkles!).

But the same is not true for every country. For example:

  • In the UK, a griddle cake refers to a US-style pancake that is thick and fluffy.
  • A pancake in the UK tends to be flatter, thinner, and wider, resembling a French crepe. 

Therefore, the griddle cake vs. pancake debate solely comes down to who you ask. 

If you ask me, whichever way you make griddle cakes, pancakes, or even hotcakes, for that matter, they’re always going to be a breakfast staple that everyone enjoys.

FAQs

If you’re still curious about griddle cakes and pancakes, keep reading. Below are some interesting, frequently asked questions you might want to know the answer to.

What are griddle cakes made of?

Again, it all comes down to who you ask. Every country is going to have its own spin on how to make griddle cakes. For example, in Norway, griddle cakes combine flour, baking soda, sugar, butter, and either kefir or buttermilk. They’re served with cheese, jam, or fruit.

What are griddle cakes called?

A griddle cake can go by many names! Some of the most common names include pancake, hotcake, flapjack, battercake, or flannel cake.

Are griddle cakes crispier than pancakes?

Griddle cakes are not crispier than pancakes. In the United States, they are the same. In other countries, pancakes may be thinner than griddle cakes and have more crepe consistency, making them different from griddle cakes.

Can you make pancakes with a griddle?

Of course! In fact, this is my number one way to make pancakes. To use the griddle, preheat over medium heat (375F) for around ten minutes. Then, add your batter and whip up delicious pancakes on the griddle (otherwise known as griddle cakes).

Final Words

Griddle cakes and pancakes are entirely the same things, at least in the United States. Other countries may have different opinions on this matter. So, it all depends on who you’re asking when it comes down to the griddle cakes vs. pancakes debate.

Do you think griddle cakes and pancakes are the same things or different?

About Michelle
I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.

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  • Dan

    I have an American cookbook, circa 1973, which lists 2 different recipes for pancakes and griddle cakes. Pancakes call for 3 eggs, 1 c. sifted flour, 3 tsp. baking powder, ½ tsp. salt, 2 tsp. gran. sugar, 1 tsp. light br. sugar, ½ c. buttermilk, and 2 Tbsp. melted butter.
    Griddle cakes calls for 1 egg, 1 c. sifted flour, 2 tsp. baking powder, ½ tsp. salt, 2 Tbsp. sugar, 1 c. milk, and 3 Tbsp. melted butter. Even the instructions vary slightly.
    Anyone who knows anything about the science of cooking, knows these 2 recipes will result in different textures and flavors. So no, pancakes and griddle cakes are not the same thing, even in the U.S., despite the typical American’s ignorance of facts. *Note: these 2 recipes make the 8-4 inch cakes, each.

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