Easy Chocolate Pancakes
If you’re on the lookout for a delightful breakfast that can satisfy your chocolate cravings, look no further than these Easy Chocolate Pancakes. They are rich, fluffy, and incredibly simple to whip up, making them perfect for both lazy weekends and special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform a regular morning into a sweet celebration. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why This Easy Chocolate Pancakes Stands Out
These Easy Chocolate Pancakes stand out because they combine the convenience of a box mix with a few simple additions that elevate the flavor and texture. Using Pillsbury Chocolate Cake Mix provides a rich chocolatey base, while the addition of all-purpose flour and baking powder gives the pancakes a light, fluffy structure that you crave in a perfect pancake. Plus, they come together in no time, making them an accessible treat for anyone, regardless of their baking experience.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 box Pillsbury Chocolate Cake Mix – This is the star ingredient that gives these pancakes their chocolatey goodness.
- 1 cup and 1/3 all-purpose flour – This helps to balance the cake mix and create a fluffy texture.
- Pinch of salt – A little salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tsp baking powder – This addition ensures that your pancakes rise perfectly.
- 1/3 cup oil – For moisture and richness in the pancakes.
- 3 eggs – Eggs bind the ingredients together and add protein.
- 2 1/2 cups milk – This helps to create a smooth batter, ensuring your pancakes are nice and moist.
- Optional: Pillsbury Frosting – For an indulgent touch, you can use frosting as a delicious topping.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Whisk – To ensure your batter is smooth and lump-free.
- Griddle or frying pan – A non-stick surface is ideal for cooking the pancakes.
- Spatula – For flipping the pancakes with ease.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Easy Chocolate Pancakes Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Pillsbury Chocolate Cake Mix, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, and milk until the mixture is smooth. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
Step 3: Heat the Griddle
Preheat your griddle or frying pan over medium heat. If you’re using a non-stick surface, there’s no need to add extra oil. If not, lightly grease your pan with a little oil or butter.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pancakes are cooked, stack them on a plate. If desired, you can garnish them with Pillsbury Frosting for a fun and indulgent twist. Serve warm and enjoy your Easy Chocolate Pancakes!
Substitutions by Category
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
- Oil: Melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce can replace the oil for a different flavor.
- Milk: Almond milk or soy milk can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
- Eggs: Flax eggs or chia eggs work well as a vegan alternative.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are okay; overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.
- Don’t skip the baking powder. It’s essential for fluffy pancakes.
- Don’t cook on too high heat. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking.
- Don’t stack pancakes until they have cooled slightly. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you want to prepare ahead, the batter can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before cooking. Cooked pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes, separating each one with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
Easy Chocolate Pancakes Q&A
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just make sure it has xanthan gum included for the right texture.
How do I make these pancakes less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet pancake, you can reduce the amount of cake mix or replace half of it with additional flour. This will give you a more balanced flavor.
Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh berries to the batter for added flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm before serving?
You can keep your pancakes warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out while you cook the rest.
Serve with These
- Maple Syrup – A classic choice for pancakes.
- Fresh Fruit – Berries or bananas add freshness and flavor.
- Whipped Cream – For a light and fluffy topping.
- Chocolate Sauce – For the ultimate chocolate experience.
The Takeaway
These Easy Chocolate Pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. They’re not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking. Whether you enjoy them plain, with frosting, or topped with your favorite fruits and syrups, they promise to deliver a satisfying and delicious start to your day. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a delightful stack of chocolatey goodness that will make any morning feel special. Happy cooking!
Easy Chocolate Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Pillsbury Chocolate Cake Mix, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, and milk until the mixture is smooth. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
- Preheat your griddle or frying pan over medium heat. If you’re using a non-stick surface, there’s no need to add extra oil. If not, lightly grease your pan with a little oil or butter.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
- Once the pancakes are cooked, stack them on a plate. If desired, you can garnish them with Pillsbury Frosting for a fun and indulgent twist. Serve warm and enjoy your Easy Chocolate Pancakes!
Notes
- Make the batter a day in advance and store in the refrigerator.
- Cooked pancakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze pancakes with parchment paper between them for up to a month.
