• Are your pancakes feeling a little… plain? This Shrove Tuesday, it’s time to shake things up with next-level toppings that will turn your stack into a showstopper. Whether you’re a sweet tooth or a savoury fan, these ideas will make every bite unforgettable!

    Classic syrup or honey

    Honey on pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Mathilde Langevin

    A drizzle of golden syrup or honey over warm pancakes? It’s a timeless combo that never fails. Simple, sweet and oh-so-satisfying.

    Biltong and cheese

    Biltong and cheese
    Photo: Unsplash/Jeff Siepman

    For a proudly South African twist, top your pancakes with thinly sliced biltong and a generous sprinkle of grated cheese.

    Fresh and fruity

    Fruit on pancakes
    Photo: Unsplash/Micheile Henderson

    Lighten things up with a medley of fresh fruit. Think banana slices, crisp apple wedges, tropical coconut flakes or juicy peach chunks. The possibilities are endless — and delicious!

    Berries

    Berries on pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Ash

    Berries and pancakes? A match made in breakfast heaven. Pile on strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries for a burst of colour and flavour.

    Jam

    Jam on pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Micheile.com_VisualStories

    Prefer your fruit in spreadable form? Slather your pancakes with your favourite jam or a homemade fruit compote for a sticky, sweet treat.

    Whipped cream

    Cream on pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Mike Esparza

    A dollop of whipped cream takes pancakes from tasty to downright dreamy. Add some fresh fruit or chocolate shavings for an extra touch of decadence.

    Nutella

    Nutella
    Photo: Unsplash/Lala Azizli

    Calling all chocoholics! A generous spread of Nutella makes for the ultimate breakfast-meets-dessert experience. Pro tip: Add sliced banana for even more tastiness.

    Milk tart

    Milk tart pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Natalie Bond

    Turn South Africa’s favourite dessert into a pancake filling! A spoonful of creamy melktert custard between layers of warm pancakes? Yes, please!

    Caramel

    caramel-pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Monstera

    Rich, buttery and with just the right amount of sweetness — caramel sauce drizzled over your stack is pure indulgence. Add a pinch of sea salt for the ultimate sweet-salty combo.

    Amarula cream

    amarula-pancakes
    Photo: Unsplash/Monika Grabkowska

    For an adults-only twist, whip up a creamy Amarula sauce to drizzle over your pancakes. It’s silky, slightly boozy, and totally irresistible.

    Peanut butter

    peanut-butter-pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Eiliv Aceron

    Smooth or crunchy? However you like it, peanut butter adds richness, protein and pure comfort to your pancake experience.

    Nutty crunch

    Nuts on pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Regina Ferraz

    Give your pancakes some extra texture with a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Almonds, pecans, hazelnuts — take your pick!

    Bacon

    bacon
    Photo: Unsplash/Casey Deviese

    Love a savoury-sweet combo? Crispy bacon strips on pancakes are a guaranteed winner. Add a drizzle of maple syrup for next-level deliciousness.

    Bobotie-inspired topping

    bobotie
    Photo: Pexels/Eva Bronzini

    Infuse your pancakes with the bold flavours of bobotie! A topping of curried mince, raisins and aromatic spices will take your tastebuds on an adventure.

    Chocoholic’s dream

    Chocolate pancakes
    Photo: Pexels/Radu Florin

    Chocolate chips, chocolate sauce, or a mix of both — because sometimes, more is more.

    Candy crush

    candy-bars
    Photo: Unsplash/Amirali Mirhashemian

    crush your favourite candy bars and sprinkle them over your pancakes. It’s fun, it’s decadent, and it’ll make your morning extra sweet!

    So, which topping are you flipping for this Shrove Tuesday?

    ALSO SEE: How to make easy pancakes

    How to make easy pancakes

    Written by Bianca Muller.

    Feature image: Pexels/Alleksana