There's nothing like a stack of pancakes, dripping with maple syrup and topped with crisp, smoky bacon to start a lazy weekend.

But what about flavouring those pancakes with fig and ricotta and topping them with an orange syrup? While Crêpes Suzette makes a sophisticated French dessert, would you have thought to fill your crêpes with the quintessential English combination of rhubarb and custard, instead? It's a fact that whichever way you choose to serve them, simple griddled treats are the ultimate comfort food. But they are so much more than a leisurely brunch or quick dessert option; pancakes, crêpes, waffles and French toast can be endlessly reinvented for any occasion, and here are some wonderful ideas to get you started, from thick American-style Pancakes, such as Blueberry Buttermilk to classic French-style Crêpes. Waffles featured are both simple (Cinnamon) and elaborate (Salted Caramel), while French Toast is stuffed with myriad inventive fillings. Finally, explore the savoury variations; recipes for Smoked Salmon and Chive Pancakes, Ham and Cheese Crêpes and Potato Waffles with Smoky BBQ beans all feature in this gorgeous and truly mouthwatering book.