Name: Baghrir Recipe – Moroccan Spongy Semolina Pancakes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: Warm water; Dry yeast; Semolina; All-purpose flour; Salt; Baking powder

I can’t help but smile every time I make Baghrir! These delicate, spongy pancakes are unlike anything else I’ve cooked before, effortlessly absorbing sweet honey or syrup in their fluffy, bubble-filled texture. After my first bite, I was hooked, and I couldn’t wait to share this delightful Moroccan treasure with you.

Whether for breakfast, brunch, or even a snack, Baghrir is a crowd-pleaser, ready in less time than you might think. Every time I drizzle warm honey over these pancakes and watch it sink into their tiny holes, I see why they’re loved worldwide. This is the recipe I find myself coming back to, and I’m here to show you why it’s simply amazing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Baghrir is packed with charm and culinary appeal, making it a must-have in your recipe lineup.

1. Easy to Prepare

With everything blended together in one step, this recipe is a dream for those who want something simple yet satisfying.

2. Light and Airy Texture

The unique spongy consistency makes Baghrir feel like eating a cloud, melting in your mouth with each bite.

3. Versatility

While traditionally enjoyed with honey and butter, Baghrir easily adapts to a variety of flavor combinations, sweet or savory.

4. Dietary-Friendly Options

Baghrir is naturally dairy-free and can be made sugar-free or gluten-free with just a few simple swaps.

5. Perfect for Freezing

Double the batch, and you’ll always have these pancakes ready to reheat and enjoy throughout the week.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

Warm water
Dry yeast
Semolina
All-purpose flour
Salt
Baking powder

Variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for more fiber.
Replace semolina with fine cornmeal for a different texture.
Sweeten with natural sugar substitutes like stevia for a sugar-free version.

Equipment You Need

Blender: To mix the ingredients into a smooth batter.
Medium Bowl: For resting the batter.
Non-Stick Skillet: To ensure the pancakes don’t stick while cooking.
Ladle: For pouring batter evenly onto the skillet.

How to Make Baghrir?

Making Baghrir is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering it like a pro!

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Using a blender, combine water, dry yeast, semolina, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, with no lumps in sight. Adding the baking powder and giving it another quick blend sets the magic in motion.

Step 2: Rest the Batter

Pour the batter into a medium bowl, cover with a clean towel, and place it in a warm spot. 🕒 Allow it to rest for 30 minutes. At this stage, you’ll see bubbles forming in the batter as the yeast works its magic.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using a ladle, pour the batter into the skillet, tilting slightly to help it spread. Watch as hundreds of tiny holes begin to appear while the surface sets! ✅ You only need to cook one side, which keeps the bottom golden while the top remains soft and bubbly.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

When done, gently transfer the cooked pancake to a cooling rack. Don’t forget to smile as you stack them – they’re a work of art! 🎉 Drizzle with butter and honey or any topping of your choice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Temperature Matters: Use warm water when blending the batter; it activates the yeast and ensures a bubbly pancake.
Thin Batter: Your batter should have a runny consistency. Add water a tablespoon at a time if needed.
No Overcooking: Once the holes form, and the edges stop curling, remove the pancake from the skillet to avoid a dry texture.
Baking Powder Trick: Mix the baking powder in only after the batter has rested to achieve maximum fluff!

How to Serve Baghrir?

Baghrir is best enjoyed warm and fresh. Traditionally, it’s paired with a combination of honey and melted butter, drizzled generously over the pancake. For a modern spin, consider these serving ideas:

Top with fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas. 🍓🍌
Spread hazelnut chocolate or almond butter for a richer treat.
Roll it around savory fillings like scrambled eggs or shredded chicken for a dinner-friendly version.
To elevate the serving presentation, sprinkle chopped nuts or sesame seeds over the top for a hint of crunch!

Nutritional Information

Baghrir is light on calories and naturally low in fat. Per serving (approximately one pancake):

Calories: 39.9
Protein: 1.3 grams
Carbohydrates: 8.7 grams
Fat: 0.5 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Baghrir is perfect for batch cooking, and you’ll be glad to know it freezes well.

Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheat directly from frozen by warming them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Baghrir’s texture holds up beautifully, even after freezing!