Golden Diner’s pancakes have garnered a reputation as some of the fluffiest and most indulgent in New York City. Chef Sam Yoo, the mastermind behind Golden Diner in Manhattan’s Chinatown, has elevated the classic pancake by incorporating unique ingredients and techniques, resulting in a dish that has patrons lining up for hours.
Golden Diner Pancakes: The Secret to Their Fluffiness
Golden Diner’s pancakes stand out due to their yeasted batter, which contributes to their impressive height and airy texture. Unlike traditional pancakes that rely on baking powder, Chef Yoo uses yeast to leaven the batter, allowing it to rise slowly and develop a light, fluffy interior. Additionally, the batter includes buttermilk and a touch of soy sauce, which not only adds a subtle umami flavor but also enhances the overall taste profile. The pancakes are baked in a skillet, ensuring a golden-brown crust while maintaining a soft and tender center
What are Golden Diner Pancakes used for?
Golden Diner pancakes, like most pancakes, are primarily:
A Breakfast or Brunch Dish –
These are eaten as a main meal in the morning or early afternoon, often enjoyed at restaurants or cafes, especially diners like Golden Diner in NYC.Comfort Food –
Their extra-fluffy, yeasted texture and rich maple honey butter sauce make them a cozy, indulgent treat — kind of like upgraded diner-style pancakes.Special Occasion or Weekend Treat –
Due to the effort involved (e.g. resting the yeast batter), they’re often made or enjoyed on weekends or holidays when there’s more time to cook and relax.Menu Highlight or Signature Dish –
At Golden Diner, these pancakes are a signature item that draw customers — used by the restaurant to build its identity and keep people coming back.
If you meant something different by “use for what,” let me know — I can clarify further based on your intent.
Ingredients for Golden Diner Pancakes
Dry Ingredients:
1½ cups all-purpose flour.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
1 tablespoon baking powder.
½ teaspoon baking soda.
½ teaspoon salt.
Wet Ingredients:
1¼ cups buttermilk (shake well).
2 large eggs.
3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (plus more for cooking).
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
Optional Toppings:
Maple syrup.
Fresh berries.
Whipped cream.
Butter pats.
Powdered sugar.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Yeast Starter (Poolish)
In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk, buttermilk, and water to about 110°F (43°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the warm liquid mixture with the yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
Stir in the flour until a thick, lumpy batter forms. Cover the bowl and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour until it doubles in size.modernasianbaking.com+2umami.recipes+2lilypcrumbs.com+2
2. Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, baking soda, flour, and salt.
Gently fold in the yeast starter until just combined. The batter should remain slightly lumpy; avoid overmixing.
Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for 15–30 minutes.umami.recipes
3. Cook the Pancakes
Preheat an 8-inch non-stick skillet over low-medium heat for about 8 minutes.
Lightly grease the skillet with a small amount of vegetable oil.
Pour 2 ladlefuls of batter into the skillet. Cook for 8 minutes until the edges begin to set and bubbles form on the surface.
Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 9 minutes until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
Carefully remove the pancake from the skillet and keep warm while cooking additional pancakes.cooklikelauren.com
4. Prepare the Maple Honey Butter Syrup
In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the honey, maple syrup, and soy sauce until well combined and heated through.
Keep the syrup warm until ready to serve.cooklikelauren.com+2lilypcrumbs.com+2umami.recipes+2
5. Prepare the Whipped Honey Butter
In a mixing bowl, whip together the softened butter, honey, and salt until light and fluffy.
Transfer to a serving dish and keep at room temperature.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Golden Diner-style pancakes — ultra-fluffy, buttery pancakes inspired by the famous NYC diner. These use a yeast-leavened batter and are baked in a skillet for that signature rise and custardy texture.
Tips for Pancake Success
- Don’t overmix – A slightly lumpy batter creates the fluffiest pancakes.
- Check your heat – Too hot, and they’ll brown too fast; too low, and they won’t rise. Medium heat is your sweet spot.
- Keep them warm – Place cooked pancakes on a baking tray in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.
Golden Pancake Variations
- Blueberry Burst – Fold fresh blueberries into the batter before cooking.
- Chocolate Chip Fun – Stir mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise.
- Banana Bliss – Add banana slices on top of the batter once it’s on the griddle or mash them directly into the mix.
Final Thoughts
These Golden Diner Pancakes are more than just breakfast—they’re a warm hug on a plate. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always satisfying, they’ll bring joy to your mornings (and maybe your afternoons, too). Keep this recipe handy, and don’t forget to share the pancake love with your family and friends.
So heat up that skillet, pour yourself some coffee, and flip your way to diner-style bliss—right from the comfort of home.
For More Recipe https://thefoodglow.com/birria-bombs-recipe/
