The sweet sauce topped the poll to find the nation’s favourite topping with almost half of respondents choosing it as their number one.

The traditional topping of lemon and sugar came in second place with chocolate and ice cream coming close behind.

Paul Miller, group executive chef at Red Hot World Buffet, said: “Pancake Day always goes down a treat at our venues with customers loving the live pancake station experience we offer. With the desserts created before your eyes, diners can then take their pick from an amazing choice of toppings from chocolate to the freshest fruit.

“The fact maple syrup came out on top shows that our taste buds are evolving and interest for global foods has never been higher. People love going on a food journey here at Red Hot World Buffet and we offer dishes from around the world to suit tastes for everyone.“

Other key findings showed that three quarters of us will be eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday but 56% of respondents didn’t know the reason why Pancake Day is celebrated.