Break out the maple syrup, because we are about to dig into some tasty stacks of pancakes, flapjacks, and hotcakes. But do these three words all refer to the same thing, or are there subtle differences? And what about griddlecakes?
In this article, we’ll serve up an explanation of how the words pancakes, flapjacks, hotcakes, and griddlecakes differ and how they overlap.
The words flapjacks, hotcakes, and griddlecakes are all used as synonyms for what are most generally and popularly called pancakes. Usage of some of these terms varies by region. While flapjacks is an informal nickname for pancakes, some people may use the terms hotcakes and griddlecakes to refer to specific types of pancakes. In the UK, the word flapjack refers to something entirely different—a baked good made from oats that resembles a granola bar.
Cooking: British flapjacks are traybake bars that are cooked in an oven, while pancakes are made on a griddle pan or frying pan. This also means that pancakes cook much quicker than flapjacks.
hotcakes vs. pancakes
In both the US and UK, the term hotcakes is used as a synonym of pancakes. The word hotcakes is often used for marketing or branding reasons (it just sounds delicious, right?), such as by the fast food chain McDonald’s, which uses the name hotcakes for their pancakes.
Speaking of marketing, the word hotcakes is commonly used in the idiom sell like hotcakes (or go like hotcakes), which uses hotcakes in the same sense and means to sell (or run out) very quickly—picture pancakes being sold as soon as they’re made, stack after stack.
pancakes vs. flapjacks
A pancake is a thin, flat cake that’s made by pouring batter into a pan—hence its name—and then flipping it so that both sides are cooked. Pancakes is a general term that’s applied to many slightly different preparations. For example, some may be very thin and others may be thicker and fluffier. And some may have additional ingredients mixed in, such as blueberries or chocolate chips.
In the US, Canada, and some other places, the word flapjacks is used as an informal synonym of pancakes, with usage of either term typically depending on regional preferences. In the UK, the word pancakes refers to the same thing, but the word flapjacks refers to something entirely different: a baked good made from oats, resembling what elsewhere may be called a granola bar or oat bar.
The word flapjack is traced back to the late 1500s. It’s a combination of the verb flap, in the sense similar to flip or toss, and jack, which comes from the proper name (a variation of John) and is sometimes used in the names of objects, as in applejack or skipjack.
What is the difference between flapjacks, hotcakes, crepes and griddle cakes?
FAQ
Is flapjacks and pancakes the same thing?
Why are pancakes called flapjacks in the US?
Is there a difference between pancakes and hotcakes?
What do Americans call flapjacks?
Is a flapjack a pancake?
The term flapjack originally referred to the “flapping” nature of the cake on the griddle, though over time the meaning has shifted in the U.K. to refer to a baked cereal bar. Are flapjacks thinner than pancakes? Flapjacks and pancakes in America are one in the same, so there is no difference in thickness.
Pancakes vs Waffles: Which is healthier?
The raw materials used in both pancakes and waffles are the same – eggs, sugar, milk, flour. However, their batter consistencies differ along with higher fat and sugar content in waffles batter which makes it more crisper and caramelized. Since, both the recipes are sources of simple carbohydrates, they cannot be labelled as healthy foods. The white flours can be substituted with millet flours to increase the fiber content of the food.
How thick is a flapjack compared to a pancake?
Flapjacks and pancakes in America are one in the same, so there is no difference in thickness. British flapjacks are about 1 inch in thickness, whereas American pancakes are usually around ½ inch in thickness. Olivia has been in love with all things food and libations for nearly a decade.
Are flapjacks healthier than pancakes?
When comparing flapjacks and pancakes, it’s essential to consider their health benefits and nutritional content. Flapjacks, or granola bars, are typically made with rolled oats, dried fruit, and honey, while pancakes are thin cakes made from a mixture of flour, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt.