And if you thought I would stop with the pillows, I’m sorry to let you down (not really).

It’s been more than half a year since I discovered what I think is the best base pancake recipe, and goodness have I made so many flat, soggy things in my bleak past. This is merely a twist on a classic favourite buttermilk version, only this time I didn’t even use buttermilk, since I didn’t have any on hand and I had no white vinegar to make any of my own. Still, the results were beyond moreish. One must make do with present circumstance, no matter how dire. The results may be surprising, and even pleasant.

Even without maple syrup, yoghurt and brownie bits (as may be observed above), the pancake alone holds a mildly sweet flavour, with plentiful air pockets, rise (each is at least an inch in height), and all sorts of loveliness. Tart blackberries offset the plain flavour a tad, each bite dripping with tenderness and bits of melted fruit. I paired a small stack with yoghurt to further enhance this tartness, and the syrup made all the components sing in perfect harmony.

This fluff is unreal. Perfect wake-up call.

Blackberry Pillow Pancakes (makes 10-12 medium-sized blackberry darlings)

Ingredients and Directions

Place a large handful of fresh or frozen blackberries (around 7-8 whole blackberries) into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, or until they are easy to mash and the juices seep out.

Follow the directions on how to make my favourite sky-high pancakes here. Before cooking the pancakes, swirl the microwaved berries into the batter. The batter will become darker, with bits of blackberry strewn throughout. Cook the pancakes as usual, on medium heat and flipping before bubbles are fully formed on the surface of the pancake. Place cooked pancakes on a paper towel, and any left over can be frozen. Serve with more berries, chocolate, yoghurt and maple syrup. Or whatever floats your boat. Enjoy, and make again soon.