[1][2] The history of serabi is unknown, but these traditional snacks are commonly served as an offering in Javanese folk religion rituals as a symbol of gratitude towards God or local deities of Java.

During the 17th century, when the Dutch colonized Java (and other Indonesian regions in general), serabi and also dadar gulung (rolled coconut pancake) became colloquially known as the Javaans pannenkoek (lit.

Sometimes pandan leaf juice is added into this batter mixture to add aroma and a greenish color.

Bandung surabi is drier and firmer with a pancake-like consistency, well known for a rich variety of toppings and recently developed fusion recipes.

The serabi from Solo, however, is more traditional and only half-cooked resulting in a thin, crispy crust but a watery center with rich coconut milk taste.