Pancakes vary widely in batter, toppings, and preparation methods across cultures. Fluffy American stacks differ from thin, crisp French crepes. With Pancake Day here, I taste-tested supermarket versions of American, French, Dutch, British, and Scotch pancakes to find the best. I evaluated flavor, texture, and enjoyment using consistent toppings: maple syrup, whipped cream, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries. This approach ensured fair comparisons without cooking variables.

I shared the results with my niece and nephew, then polled 170 Instagram followers. Votes broke down as: 38% for crepes, 31% for American pancakes, 23% for British pancakes, 8% for Dutch pancakes, and 0% for Scotch pancakes.

5. Dutch-Style Pancakes (Abra-Ca-Debora Original)

Dutch pannenkoeken fill an entire pan, thicker than crepes but made simply with flour, eggs, milk, and sugar. Locals enjoy them hot with cherries, whipped cream, or cheese. These offered a richer, buttery, eggy taste with a bready note and chewy texture. However, a slight bitterness and dense feel ranked them lowest. My niece and nephew agreed on the underwhelming flavor. Score: 4/10.

4. British Sweet Pancakes (Sainsbury’s)

British pancakes resemble smaller, thicker crepes without raising agents, unlike fluffier American versions. Traditional toppings include lemon juice and sugar, but I found that too tart. Even with syrup and fruit, the light, neutral, slightly eggy flavor felt bland. Texture lacked excitement compared to crepes or fluffies. Score: 5/10.

3. Scotch Pancakes (Sainsbury’s)

These small, soft pancakes taste mildly sweet and buttery, like mini American ones. They pair well with syrup, fruit, or savory items like sausage. I enjoyed their warmth and versatility, but my young tasters called them bland next to sweeter options. Score: 7/10.

2. French Crepes (Lidl Chocolate and Hazelnut-Filled)

Originating in 13th-century France, crepes use basic ingredients—eggs, milk, flour, butter—without sugar for versatile fillings. Plain versions are rare in stores, so I tried chocolate-filled ones. Light and airy, they shine with toppings but can fade under heavy fillings. The chocolate overwhelmed slightly for most, though my youngest nephew loved it. Popularity soared in the poll. Score: 8/10.

1. American Buttermilk Pancakes (Sainsbury’s) – 10/10

Fluffy, sweet, light, and moist, these pancakes stand out with any topping while keeping flavor central. Dating back to the 1700s, they cook quickly on a stove. A simple recipe includes flour, eggs, milk, butter, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Serve with maple syrup, whipped cream, fruit, bacon, or sausage for perfection.