As Pancake Day celebrations wind down, a staggering 17.1 million pancakes are wasted in the UK each year, according to estimates from Too Good to Go. In an effort to combat this food waste, kitchen expert Debra Hutt from Wren Kitchens has shared creative ways to make the most of leftover pancake ingredients.

Alongside her recipes, Hutt has also shed light on the nation’s favourite pancake toppings, revealing a few unexpected trends. While maple syrup remains a popular choice, fresh fruit now takes the top spot, with 33% of Britons favouring a healthier twist. Meanwhile, 22% of respondents enjoy the sweet and savoury combination of bacon and maple syrup.

A survey conducted by Wren Kitchens highlights these shifting preferences, showing that classic toppings remain strong but adventurous alternatives are on the rise. While Nutella, honey, and ice cream continue to be household favourites, an increasing number of people are opting for more unconventional combinations such as smoked salmon and cream cheese or avocado.

UK favourite pancake toppings

A recent survey by Wren Kitchens has unveiled the UK’s top pancake toppings:

• Fresh fruit – 33%
• Maple syrup – 27%
• Nutella or chocolate spread – 24%
• Honey – 23%
• Ice cream – 18%

Unusual pancake toppings gain popularity

While traditional flavours still dominate, many Britons are experimenting with bolder flavour combinations:

• Bacon and maple syrup – 22%
• Smoked salmon and cream cheese – 18%
• Avocado – 14%
• Eggs – 13%
• Cheese – 13%

Hutt has provided innovative ways to incorporate these ingredients into pancakes, transforming them into gourmet dishes.

Maple bacon and cheddar pancakes

“Sweet meets savoury through combining crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a drizzle of maple syrup for the perfect balance of flavours. Mix grated cheese straight into the batter, and once the pancakes are golden brown, pile them high, sprinkle over crispy bacon bits, and finish with a generous pour of maple syrup. You can even add a fried egg on top for extra indulgence.”

Smoked salmon and cream cheese crêpes

If you’re after something a little lighter, these delicate crêpes bring a sophisticated touch to your pancakes. “Light, buttery, and paper thin, they’re filled with silky smoked salmon and a tangy cream cheese spread, finished with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Simply whisk together flour, milk, eggs, and melted butter to create a smooth batter, then cook until golden before layering on the filling,” adds Hutt.

Avocado, cheese and poached egg pancakes

For those who love a savoury brunch, this recipe offers a nutritious twist. “These savoury pancakes are packed with fibre-rich wholemeal flour, creamy mashed avocado, and tangy cheese, making them both nutritious and delicious. Stack them up, top with a perfectly poached egg and a drizzle of hot sauce or a side of crispy bacon to take it to the next level,” Hutt suggests.

Beyond recipes, Hutt also shares expert tips for keeping kitchens tidy during pancake-making. “Start with a clutter-free workspace and measure ingredients in advance to avoid spills. Use a mixing bowl with a spout or a squeeze bottle to minimise drips, and keep a damp cloth handy to wipe surfaces immediately. Cooking on a baking tray can help catch stray batter, while a splatter guard prevents greasy messes.”