Martabak Manis, Indonesia’s Irresistible Sweet Pancakes

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has its own take on the pancake, and it comes in a thick, spongy, and generously filled form called martabak manis. Depending on where you are in the country, the same snack can also be called terang bulan or kue Bandung.

Unlike the thin pancakes commonly found in many countries, martabak manis has a thick and soft texture with a honeycomb-like structure throughout the surface. Once cooked, it is usually folded in half and filled with generous layers of toppings.

The classic version is often spread with butter or margarine and filled with chocolate sprinkles, crushed peanuts, sugar, and condensed milk. Today, the choices are much more varied, with toppings such as cheese, chocolate, cookies, bananas, and other dessert-inspired combinations.

The different names are part of what makes this snack interesting. In Jakarta and some other parts of Indonesia, it is commonly called martabak manis, while terang bulan and kue Bandung are also widely used in different regions, depending on local traditions and habits.

The word martabak itself is also used for another popular Indonesian dish, martabak telur, a savory stuffed crepe made with eggs, meat, and other fillings. To distinguish the two, the sweet version is generally called martabak manis.

Making martabak manis starts with a simple batter made from flour, eggs, sugar, milk or water, and other ingredients that help create its soft and tender texture. The batter is poured into a hot, thick pan and cooked until bubbles form across the surface, creating the snack's characteristic holes.

Once cooked, the pancake is spread with butter or margarine and covered with the chosen toppings. It is then folded, cut into smaller pieces, and served warm, making it a popular snack to share with family and friends.

Martabak manis can be found across Indonesia, from street-side stalls and traditional markets to cafés and modern dessert shops. Whether you call it martabak manis, terang bulan, or kue Bandung, this sweet and spongy treat remains a favorite among Indonesians of different generations.