Fat Tuesday: Flappers Versus Semlor

Fat Tuesday is here! Time to revel in all things tasty and fattening in preparation for 40 days of going without. These days very few of us make Lenten sacrifices, yet many of us continue to shrive if only for the relief and clean slate of penance so that we can go out and do it all again. Thus, Friday fish fries...

My favorite Fat Tuesday treat is the semlor, which I have written about countless times and which I neglected to bake this year. Rather, in an effort to imitate the incredible flappers at Colossal Cafe I prepared a substantial and yeasty pancake. In a pinch these cakes will due, but next time I get a craving I'll make the drive to Colossal for their version especially when topped with apples, walnuts, and brie.

Fat Flappers
1 package yeast
3 cups almond milk, warmed to 100 degrees
4 cups whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 eggs, beaten

Combine well yeast, milk, flour, sugar, salt. Stir in butter. Set aside for 20 to 30 minutes. Beat in eggs.

Use 1/2 cup batter on large griddle per pancake.

Strawberry Topping
2 cups strawberries, stem removed
2 - 3 tablespoons each balsamic vinegar and honey

Toss berries in vinegar and honey and let stand at room temperature 1 hour.