WATCH: No need for pancake panic

The children have already warned you that they’ll be expecting a lovely warm stack of pancakes for their tea when they get in from school and, if we’re being honest, we quite fancy one as well.

But do you always end up with a smouldering lump of batter in the bottom of the pan, and a hungry, disappointed family staring you down in the kitchen?

No worries! Simon Haley from the Pancake Kitchen in Seaham has raced in to the rescue, by sharing his failsafe recipe with us – all you need to do is pick your favourite topping or filling, sweet or savoury, and tuck in.

Take a look at our list of ingredients below to make the batter, and watch the video to find pancake perfection!

RECIPE (makes around 15 pancakes)

*110g plain flour

*2 large eggs

*200ml semi-skimmed milk

*75ml water (mixed with the milk)

*50g butter

*Pinch of salt

Which pancakes will you try this year? Don’t forget to let us know your own suggestions for recipes, and we’ll add them to the list!

Lemon and sugar: A classic combination. Who can fault it?

Chocolate sauce: The perfect choice for a chocoholic - keep the cakes thin and crispy, before drenching them in your chocolate sauce of choice - white, milk, or dark?

Melted chocolate and strawberries: For something a bit more decadent. Reach for your favourite chocolate bar and melt it down in the saucepan for a few minutes. Add strawberries!

Red berries and whipped cream: Great for a treat breakfast! Opt for squirty cream, or whip your own double cream for an extra touch of class.

Maple syrup and crispy bacon: Who says you have to choose between sweet and savoury? Have the best of both worlds and enjoy this pleasing dish.

Cinnamon sugar and golden syrup: The ultimate sugar overload - but definitely a good choice. Drench in syrup and sprinkle with the tasty, spicy sugar.

Ham and melted cheese: Turn your pudding into a meal with smoked ham and your favourite melted cheese.

Hoisin duck pancakes: Okay, we know this is cheating a little bit. But if you can’t be bothered to whip up your own batch, head out to your favourite Oriental restaurant for a portion.

Crunchy peanut butter and raspberry jam: It’s a classic sandwich, so why not make it a classic pancake dish? Pack your pancake full of the fillings, fold it over and enjoy!

Sliced banana and smooth peanut butter: A firm favourite for all the family - and you’re even sneaking a bit of fruit in there too.

Cream cheese and red onion: If you don’t have a sweet tooth, this one is bound to tickle the taste buds. Fry off your onions and let the cheese start to melt - yum!