For centuries, people around the world have enjoyed pancakes as a nourishing breakfast staple or a delicious anytime treat. These flat little cakes are far more interesting than their humble appearance might suggest. Here are some fascinating facts to remember the next time you order them at your favorite breakfast restaurant.

Fun Facts About Pancakes

1. They've Been Around, in Some Form or Another, Since Ancient Times

The first recorded reference to pancakes dates back to 600 B.C. in Greece. Greek poets wrote about their breakfast cakes made from flour, curdled milk, olive oil, honey, and white wine—a far cry from what most people are accustomed to today. Bear in mind that this is just the first recorded mention of these breakfast treats; they've been around, in one form or another, in many—if not most—countries since ancient times. This makes it difficult to definitively determine their origin, but one thing is certain: They are a tasty and filling way to start the day.

2. Pancake Races Are Held Annually in Many Cities

Racing with flapjacks dates back to 15th-century England, when, on Shrove Tuesday, a housewife was preparing breakfast as the church bells started to ring. In a desperate attempt to make it to the church on time, she rushed out of the house, frying pan still in hand. This started the annual pancake races that are still held on Shrove Tuesday in many cities around the world. It's trickier than it sounds, as you need to race down the street flipping a cake in a frying pan as you run.

3. The Largest Ever Made Was a Whopping 49 Feet in Diameter

In 1994, an ambitious cooperative of cooks from Rochdale in the United Kingdom prepared the world's largest flapjack. It measured more than 49 feet in diameter and an inch in depth. To meet Guinness requirements, it had to be flipped and be edible, both of which the cooks managed to do successfully.

Now that you know some interesting facts about these breakfast classics, order them the next time you visit Belgian Waffle & Pancake House. Since 1976, they have been serving hungry patrons of Branson, MO. They also offer a full menu of mouthwatering breakfast and lunch items, including Belgian waffles, egg dishes, and sandwiches. Please note that they are closed every year from December 13 to the second weekend in March. Call (417) 334-8484 or visit them online for more information.