For pancake lovers, celebrating in February can be a challenge as Pancake Day changes every year dependent on when Easter falls.

Officially known as Shrove Tuesday it is always the day before Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent), and is always in either February or March. This year it is particularly early, which means you'll need to get your frying pans ready for Tuesday, February 9 .

Pancake Day 2016

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Why do we celebrate Pancake Day?

Traditionally, pancakes were eaten on Shrove Tuesday to use up any rich foods like eggs, sugar and milk before the 40-day fasting season of Lent began. But although it is seen as a Christian tradition, some people believe that Pancake Day was originally a pagan holiday, when eating warm, round pancakes - symbolising the sun - was a way of celebrating the arrival of spring.

How to make the perfect pancake

Ingredients

150g of plain flour

Two medium eggs

300ml of semi-skimmed milk

One and a half tablespoons of olive oil

Method

1) Sift the flour into a large bowl and make a well in the centre. Crack the eggs into the well and whisk, drawing in the flour from the sides of the bowl. Gradually add the milk and continue whisking, until you have a smooth batter. Leave to stand for 30 minutes.

2) Meanwhile, line a baking tray with nonstick baking paper. Preheat the oven to gas 1/4, 110°C, 90°C fan.

3) Brush a 20cm frying pan with a little oil and warm on the hob, over medium heat. Add a tbsp of the batter to the pan, tipping gently until it coats the base in a thin layer. Cook for one to two minutes, or until golden, then carefully flip the pancake over and cook the underside for one minute more.

4) Transfer to the prepared baking tray and keep warm in the oven. Repeat to make 12 pancakes, adding a little more oil to the pan before each addition.

5) Serve with your favourite topping.

What is your favourite pancake topping? Let us know in the comments below: