Ah, chocolate pancakes. Just the thought of them brings a smile to my face and a warm feeling to my heart. I remember the first time I made these chocolatey delights for my family—it was a chilly Sunday morning, and the kids were still in their pajamas, eagerly waiting at the kitchen table. The moment the sweet aroma filled the air, I knew we were in for a special breakfast. That day, laughter and chocolate smudges were abundant, and these pancakes became an instant family favorite. They’re more than just a meal; they’re a testament to the simple joys of family gatherings, where a shared breakfast turns into cherished memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: These chocolate pancakes are rich and indulgent, offering the perfect balance of cocoa and sweetness. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and who wouldn’t love that?
- Easy to Make: With simple, everyday ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for those lazy weekends when you want something special without too much fuss.
- Family-Friendly: Kids absolutely love them! This recipe is a great way to get the little ones involved in the kitchen, whether it’s mixing the batter or adding extra chocolate chips.
- Versatile: You can customize these pancakes with your favorite toppings—from fresh berries to a dollop of whipped cream or even a sprinkle of nuts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday breakfast or a cozy brunch, these pancakes are always a hit.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 358 per pancake
Ingredients
For the Pancakes: – 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (150 grams) – ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (21 grams) – ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams) – 1½ teaspoons baking powder (6 grams) – ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – 1 cup milk (227 grams) – 2 large eggs (100 grams) – 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (25 grams) – ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (2 grams) – ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (85 grams)
For the Chocolate Sauce: – 1¼ cups semisweet chocolate chips (213 grams), plus more for topping – ½ cup heavy cream (114 grams)
Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Create the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix until just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease it with nonstick spray. Pour the batter using a ¼-cup measuring cup. Cook each pancake for about 1 minute on each side until browned. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
- Prepare the Chocolate Sauce: Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted. Add the heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
- Serve: Drizzle the pancakes with chocolate sauce and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Large skillet or griddle
- ¼-cup measuring cup
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Foil
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Flour: Provides structure to the pancakes, ensuring they’re fluffy and hold together well.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds that rich, chocolatey flavor that makes these pancakes irresistible.
- Sugar: Balances the bitterness of the cocoa, adding just the right amount of sweetness.
- Baking Powder: The leavening agent that helps the pancakes rise and become light and airy.
- Milk and Eggs: Essential for moisture and binding, creating a smooth batter.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the pancakes soft and tender.
- Chocolate Chips: Melts into gooey pockets of chocolate, enhancing every bite.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor, complementing the chocolate nicely.
- Heavy Cream: Used in the sauce to create a rich, silky texture.
What to Serve With This Dish
These chocolate pancakes pair perfectly with a side of crispy bacon or fresh fruit, like strawberries or bananas. For a complete brunch experience, consider serving them with a refreshing glass of orange juice or a hot cup of coffee. If you’re looking for more breakfast ideas, check out my Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes and Classic French Toast recipes, which are also family favorites.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which doesn’t happen often in my house!), you can store the chocolate pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. They also freeze well; just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or toaster oven until warm.
As for the chocolate sauce, it can be kept in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat gently before serving.
There you have it—my go-to chocolate pancake recipe that’s sure to bring joy to your family breakfast table. Remember, cooking is all about creating moments and memories with those you love. So, gather your loved ones, grab a spatula, and enjoy this delightful treat. Happy cooking, my friends!
Chocolate Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt together.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract together.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and use a spatula to mix until the batter is just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease the pan with nonstick spray.
- Pour the batter into the skillet using a ¼-cup measuring cup. Cook for about 1 minute on each side, until browned. Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and wrap with foil. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Make the chocolate sauce. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring in between each, until completely melted.
- Pour the heavy cream into the melted chocolate and whisk until the sauce is silky and smooth.
- Serve the pancakes with chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of chocolate chips.