These Chocolate Chip Pancakes are the perfect blend of fluffy and sweet, making them a favorite breakfast for kids and adults alike. Ideal for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions, these pancakes are quick to whip up and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. The addition of mini chocolate chips adds a delightful touch, ensuring that every bite is filled with sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious breakfast ready in no time.
- Kid-Approved: These pancakes are a hit with children, making them an excellent choice for family breakfasts.
- Freezable: Leftovers freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy these pancakes on busy mornings without any extra effort.
- Versatile: Customize your pancakes with fruits, nuts, or alternative toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- Fluffy Texture: The combination of Greek yogurt and baking powder gives these pancakes an irresistible lightness.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these delightful pancakes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process seamless and enjoyable.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Non-stick skillet or electric griddle
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Why These Tools Matter
- Non-stick skillet or electric griddle: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making flipping pancakes easy.
- Mixing bowls: Allows for organized mixing of dry and wet ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly combining all ingredients.
Ingredients
These Chocolate Chip Pancakes are soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet chocolate chips! My kids ask for these pancakes all the time – they are their very favorite breakfast! If you have leftovers they freeze wonderfully for quick breakfasts later on.
Ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1 cup each all-purpose and whole wheat flour)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 ¼ cups milk (I use whole milk)
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup mini chocolate chips (see note)
How to Make Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Melt the butter either in the microwave or in a pan on the stove. Once melted, set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, milk, and vanilla extract. Then whisk in the melted butter until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until almost combined. Then add the mini chocolate chips and continue mixing gently until just incorporated; be cautious not to overmix. The batter may be slightly lumpy but should not have any streaks of flour.
Step 5: Heat Your Cooking Surface
Heat an electric griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
Step 6: Cook the Pancakes
Scoop about 3 tablespoons of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top and the bottoms are golden brown (approximately 3 minutes). Flip each pancake carefully and cook until golden on the second side (about 2 minutes). Serve warm with butter and maple syrup if desired.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Chocolate Chip Pancakes are a delightful breakfast treat that can be served in various delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pancake experience.
Classic Toppings
- Butter and Maple Syrup: A traditional choice that enhances the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing touch and a burst of flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream creates a fun and indulgent topping.
Creative Additions
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: A rich peanut butter drizzle adds creaminess and pairs well with chocolate.
- Nutella Spread: For chocolate lovers, Nutella offers an extra layer of chocolaty goodness.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft pancakes.
Fun Twists
- Ice Cream Scoop: Turn breakfast into dessert by adding your favorite ice cream atop the warm pancakes.
- Yogurt Parfait Style: Layer pancakes with Greek yogurt and fruit for a healthy twist.
How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Pancakes
To ensure your Chocolate Chip Pancakes turn out fluffy and delicious every time, follow these simple tips.
- Bold Mixing Technique: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately before combining to prevent overmixing.
- Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially baking powder, are fresh for optimal fluffiness.
- Bold Temperature Control: Cook pancakes at medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through properly.
- Bold Consistent Size: Use a measuring spoon to keep pancake sizes uniform for even cooking.
- Bold Resting Time: Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes before cooking; this helps improve texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Chip Pancakes can create a more complete meal. Here are some tasty options you might consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the pancakes while adding freshness.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, balancing the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Turkey Turkey turkey bacon Strips: A crispy side that pairs well with pancakes without overpowering their flavor.
- Greek Yogurt Bowl: Serve alongside for added creaminess and nutrition; top with honey or granola if desired.
- Cottage Cheese: This high-protein option offers a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with fluffy pancakes.
- Smoothie Bowl: A fruit smoothie bowl can be refreshing and nutritious, making breakfast feel more indulgent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chocolate Chip Pancakes can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your pancakes tough. Stir until just combined for fluffy pancakes.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can affect cooking. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.
- Not Preheating the Pan: A cold pan will lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your skillet or griddle before pouring in the batter.
- Skipping the Grease: Not greasing the pan may cause sticking. Even with non-stick pans, a little grease helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Measuring Flour Incorrectly: Too much flour can make pancakes dry. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chocolate Chip Pancakes
- Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chocolate Chip Pancakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm pancakes on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each pancake for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet for about 1-2 minutes on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make chocolate chip pancakes fluffier?
Adding Greek yogurt and ensuring you don’t overmix the batter contributes to a fluffy texture.
Can I use whole wheat flour in chocolate chip pancakes?
Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition without sacrificing taste.
How long do chocolate chip pancakes take to cook?
Each pancake typically takes about 5 minutes total—3 minutes on one side and 2 on the other—until golden brown.
What toppings go well with chocolate chip pancakes?
You can serve them with butter, maple syrup, fresh fruits, or whipped cream for extra sweetness and flavor.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Chip Pancakes are not only soft and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, fruits, or even different types of chocolate chips! They’re perfect for breakfast or brunch and are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe!
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 pancakes 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful goodness of Chocolate Chip Pancakes, a breakfast treat that both kids and adults will adore. These pancakes are fluffy, soft, and generously studded with mini chocolate chips, making them a perfect way to start any day. Quick to prepare, they are ideal for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. With endless possibilities for customization, you can top them with fresh fruit, creamy nut spreads, or even a dollop of yogurt for added nutrition. Whether enjoyed as a family breakfast or a cozy brunch solo, these pancakes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1 cup each all-purpose and whole wheat flour)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ¼ cups milk (whole or any preferred type)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove; set aside to cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, mix eggs, Greek yogurt, milk, and vanilla until smooth; stir in melted butter.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat; lightly grease if needed.
- Pour about 3 tablespoons of batter onto the skillet for each pancake; cook until bubbles form and bottoms are golden brown (about 3 minutes). Flip and cook until golden on the other side (about 2 minutes). Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake (approximately 65g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
