Choose an all-in-one pancake mix if you want to avoid measuring out lots of separate ingredients for your buffet. Just check the yield and allergens on the pack you choose. A classic mix is a good option if you want to add the milk and eggs yourself. If you specifically want to use sourdough, plan well ahead or use a starter that’s already been prepared: according to Jumbo, making a starter takes 3 to 6 days.
If you don’t want to measure out milk and eggs for the batter, look for an all-in-one mix. The Koopmans and PLUS options described by Albert Heijn and PLUS call for water to be added; you’ll still need cooking fat for frying.
A classic or plain mix can be used as a base for a range of toppings. Remember to check which extra ingredients the chosen pack says to add to the batter.
If the process matters to you, plan ahead. According to Jumbo’s starter instructions, the sourdough starter is ready after 3 to 6 days; you’ll also need a suitable pancake recipe.
First decide whether avoiding lots of measuring, making enough portions or using sourdough matters most for your buffet. Then compare the preparation instructions and information on the exact pack.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Less measuring | Check what you need to add to the mix and how many pancakes one pack makes. | If I still have a lot to prepare just before the buffet, I want to make the batter with as few separate ingredients as possible. Around 42% of consumers put this convenience first. |
| Yield and serving space | Compare the number of pancakes or portions per pack and the ingredients needed for the batter. | I want to be able to make enough pancakes for several guests and offer a choice of toppings. This is the main priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Sourdough character | Check whether the product specifically mentions sourdough; if you’re making your own starter, start preparing it in good time. | If I specifically want to bake with sourdough, an ordinary mix isn’t automatically a substitute. An estimated 25% of consumers say this is their top priority. |
A classic, plain or all-in-one pancake mix doesn’t automatically have a sourdough character. According to Jumbo, making a new starter takes 3 to 6 days.
If sourdough is essential for your buffet, check that it’s specifically mentioned on the pack. Don’t wait until just before Boxing Day to start a new starter.
A shaker bottle can be handy for a small top-up, but if you’re catering for several guests, first check the yield per pack.
Work out how many pancakes you want to serve, then compare the stated yield of the bottle and the pack.
According to Albert Heijn, the Koopmans Original shaker bottle makes 4 to 6 pancakes, compared with around 10 from Koopmans Compleet. You may therefore need more bottles to make the same planned quantity.
Ingredients and warnings vary between products. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority explains that allergens must be listed on food labels.
Before buying and serving, read the label on the exact pack you’re using, even if you’ve bought a different version before.
The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises against eating raw dough and batter. So don’t put out raw batter for guests to taste while preparing the buffet.
Serve the pancakes thoroughly cooked and keep raw batter and used utensils separate from food that’s ready to serve.
Koopmans offers an all-in-one mix, a classic mix and a shaker bottle, among other options. Preparation and yield vary by product.
Jumbo Naturel is a 400 g pancake mix that can be used as a base for your buffet.
PLUS offers a plain mix in a box, an all-in-one mix and a shaker bottle. Choose the option that best suits your plans.
Albona is ALDI’s brand of multigrain pancake mix, sold in a 400 g pack.
Belbake offers an Original pancake mix in a 400 g pack.
These mixes are options for classic pancake batter or a small top-up for your buffet. If you specifically want to use sourdough, check that it’s actually listed as an ingredient on the pack you choose.
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A mix to consider if you want to prepare the batter yourself for your buffet; check in advance what the instructions on this pack say to add.
Pack size: 400 g. If you have specific dietary requirements, read the ingredients and allergens on the current pack.
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A classic mix for anyone who wants to make the batter with extra ingredients and plan how much they’ll need for the buffet.
Pack size: 400 g. Koopmans states that the Origineel version makes 11 to 13 pancakes per pack; check the preparation instructions and allergens on the pack you choose.
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A smaller pack to consider as a top-up for your buffet; compare the yield stated on the pack with the number of guests.
Pack size: 210 g. Follow the preparation instructions for this version, not those for a larger pack of Complete.
Look for an all-in-one mix whose pack says to add water to the batter. According to Albert Heijn and PLUS, the Koopmans Compleet and PLUS Complete 400 g packs described each call for 700 ml of water; you’ll still need butter or oil for frying.
Yes. Read the label on the exact pack you’re going to use. Ingredients and warnings can vary between products; the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority explains how allergens are listed on food labels.
Don’t put raw batter out to eat; the Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises against tasting raw dough and batter. Cook the pancakes thoroughly. The PLUS shaker bottle instructions also say to use the batter straight after mixing it with milk and not to store it.
Store the dry mix in a cool, dry, dark place in a tightly sealed container, as advised by the Netherlands Nutrition Centre for multigrain pancake mix. Also check the storage instructions and best-before date on your own pack.
