If you’re expecting a large group, a 5 kg bag could be a good fit. If numbers are low or uncertain, it’s easier to adjust the number of 400 g packs. Kantinewinkel estimates that Koopmans Complete Pancake Mix 5 kg makes around 50 to 60 pancakes measuring 30 cm, but yields vary between mixes and pancake sizes. Also check what you need to add, and prepare a gluten-free portion separately if a guest requires one.
Which option is right for you?
Organisers catering for a large group
If you’re expecting a large group and have a fairly reliable headcount, a 5 kg bag could reduce the number of individual packs you need. Compare the stated yield with the size of your pan, and check what you need to add to the mix.
Organisers who want to keep preparation simple
A mix that only needs water means fewer ingredients to prepare. But you still may not be able to start cooking straight away: Sligro says that Dr. Oetker Professional’s 5 kg mix also needs to stand for around half an hour.
Organisers catering for guests with dietary requirements or allergies
The exact product, its ingredients and where you prepare it all matter. For the Koopmans gluten-free mix it reviewed, Makro says you’ll need clean, separate equipment and a clean work surface to prepare it gluten-free.
What should you look for when choosing?
First, work out how many guests will be eating and whether you’ll need to prepare a separate portion. Then compare the ingredients to add and the resting time before cooking for each mix.
| What to consider |
Check |
Who it matters to |
| Yield |
Compare the number of pancakes per pack and the size they’re based on. |
If I’m cooking for a large group, I want to make enough batter without ending up with a lot left over. Around 42% of consumers would put getting a sufficient yield first. |
| Preparation |
Check which ingredients you need to add and whether the batter needs to rest. |
I don’t want to find myself having to get milk and eggs ready during the get-together. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise keeping preparation to a minimum. |
| Dietary requirements and allergens |
Check the ingredients and allergens in your chosen product, and whether you can cook it separately. |
If a guest needs a separate portion, I want to prevent it coming into contact with regular batter. Around 25% of consumers would make suitable, separate preparation their top priority. |
Common preparation mistakes
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Choosing a 5 kg bag without working out the yield
The stated number of pancakes may be based on a particular diameter. If you use a different-sized pan, the number you make may vary.
Plan portions based on the group you’re expecting and the pan you’ll be using. If numbers are uncertain, consider whether individual packs would suit your plans better.
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Assuming every mix only needs water
PLUS says that Koopmans Original needs milk, eggs and butter or oil added to the 400 g pack. The complete mix from Dr. Oetker Professional described by Sligro only needs water, but the batter must rest for around half an hour.
Read the instructions on the exact pack before the get-together and add the ingredients you need to your shopping list.
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Using the same equipment for gluten-free batter
Using a gluten-free mix alone won’t prevent the batter from coming into contact with gluten during preparation. For the Koopmans product it reviewed, Makro recommends separate equipment and a clean work surface.
Use a clean pan, bowl and whisk for the separate portion, and keep the toppings separate too.
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Checking allergen information only when it’s time to serve
If you’re offering unpackaged pancakes to consumers as part of a business, you need to provide information about the allergens they contain. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority highlights this requirement.
Keep the packaging and make a note of the allergens in each batter and topping so you can answer questions when serving.
Brands to consider
Koopmans Professioneel
This professional range includes pancake mixes in different sizes and varieties, including 5 kg bags.
- The range includes mixes for different preparation methods.
- Not every 5 kg bag is a complete mix: according to Koopmans Professioneel, Pannenkoekmix Speciaal needs additional ingredients. Check the instructions and allergens for each variety.
Dr. Oetker Professional
The egg pancake mix reviewed comes in a 5 kg bag and is prepared with water.
- According to Sligro, you only need to add water to this mix.
- Sligro recommends leaving the batter to rest for around half an hour, so bear this in mind when planning when to start cooking.
Soubry
Makro Netherlands describes the 5 kg egg pancake mix it reviewed as suitable for pancakes, waffles and fritters.
- Makro also says this variety can be used in pancake machines.
- If you’re catering for guests with allergies, check the allergens on the exact pack before using this variety.
Albona
ALDI Netherlands lists an Albona multigrain pancake mix in a 400 g pack.
- The smaller pack may suit you if you want to match the number of packs to a smaller group.
- This isn’t a bulk pack, so work out how many you’ll need if you’re catering for a large group.
Joybuy product in individual packs
This 400 g pack is a good fit if you prefer individual packs and numbers are low or uncertain. It isn’t a 5 kg bag for bulk use.
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Koopmans Original pancake mix 400 g
If numbers are low or uncertain, you can adjust the number of packs to suit the group you’re expecting.
This pack contains 400 g of mix. You’ll need milk, eggs and butter or oil to prepare it; check the current pack for quantities.
If you have dietary requirements or allergies, also check the latest ingredients and allergen information.
View at Joybuy
Frequently asked questions
How many pancakes can I make from a 5 kg bag?
It depends on the mix and the size of your pan. Kantinewinkel estimates that Koopmans Complete Pancake Mix 5 kg makes around 50 to 60 pancakes measuring 30 cm; don’t assume the same yield for a different variety or diameter.
Do I still need milk and eggs for a complete mix?
For the 5 kg Dr. Oetker Professional egg pancake mix described by Sligro, you only need to add water, although the batter needs to rest for around half an hour. PLUS says that Koopmans Original 400 g does need milk, eggs and butter or oil, so check the instructions on your pack.
Can I cook gluten-free pancakes alongside regular ones?
You’ll need to prepare them separately to prevent contact with regular batter. For the Koopmans gluten-free mix it reviewed, Makro recommends a clean, gluten-free work surface and separate equipment; keep the toppings separate too.
What allergen information do I need when serving unpackaged food?
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority says that businesses offering unpackaged pancakes to consumers must make information about the allergens they contain available. Keep the details of the mix and toppings you use so you can say what each preparation contains.