How to make the perfect breakfast in bed
1st Jan 2015 Recipes
2 min read
Romantic gestures don’t come more classic than breakfast in bed. It’s a subtle yet thoughtful way to show you care and really spoil the one you love. We’ve put together a fool proof guide to pulling off this relaxed, romantic meal.
Get the timing right
Keeping your breakfast in bed plans a surprise will make the experience all the more special.
Be sure to give yourself at least an hour to get things ready. While your partner is sound asleep, all cosy and comfortable in bed, sneak off to the kitchen—have your excuse prepared in case they stir early! If possible, try to choose a menu that you can prepare in advance.
Pancakes are the perfect choice for breakfast in bed because if you’re very sneaky, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. This means on the day all you’ll have to do is cook them. Why not try the recipe below for maximum taste, minimal fuss, and minimal chance of detection.
Remember the important thing about this gesture is spending time with your loved one. You don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen, only to feel too frazzled to enjoy the meal you serve up. It’s all in the gesture.
Be sure to check beverages are only 3/4 full to avoid potential staircase spillages. Oh, and never underestimate the importance of a sturdy lap tray with cushion.
Think about the little things
Small touches can be the most romantic. Why not bring in their favourite magazine/newspaper, or a crossword to complete as they eat?
Alternatively, a well-placed flower, card or small gift makes a nice extra touch. You could also put on their favourite radio station or album to contribute to the relaxing mood.
If you’re feeling really mushy, you can look up instructions on creating heart-shaped versions of just about any breakfast food, from bacon and eggs to French toast.
Banana pancakes recipe
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Makes 12 pancakes
Makes 12 pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups plain flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 small, peeled over-ripe banana (browner = better)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Method:
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt.
- Mash the banana with a fork until texture is almost smooth and add to the mix.
- Whisk in the eggs, add milk and vanilla and whisk again until fully blended.
- Fold the batter carefully until just blended, being careful not to overmix. The texture should be thick and lumpy.
- Put a non-stick pan onto a medium heat until very hot.
- Melt a knob of butter in the pan and then drop in the batter—roughly ¼ cup per pancake.
- Cook for around 2 minutes, or until the pancake is golden brown. Flip and cook until the bottom is golden brown and the top is puffed.
- Remove from the heat and serve. Repeat for as many pancakes as you require.
- You may choose to add toppings such as bacon, maple syrup, bananas, fruit, yoghurt, cream, nutella or lemon juice to serve.