There is something utterly magical about waking up to a stack of fluffy, warm pancakes dotted with melty chocolate chips, and that’s exactly what this Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe delivers. It’s a delightful balance of soft, airy batter and pockets of sweet chocolate that melt into every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy weekend breakfast or craving a special treat, these pancakes bring joy with every forkful. Trust me, once you try this Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe, it will become your new favorite go-to morning indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe relies on simple, classic ingredients that come together to create a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Each ingredient plays its role: from the flour lending structure to the chocolate chips adding bursts of sweetness, everything works in sync.
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that creates a light and fluffy pancake texture.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Gives the pancakes their essential rise and fluffiness.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure soft, tender pancakes.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to compliment the chocolate chips perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma that complements the chocolate.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender for each pancake.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk, regular or mini): The star ingredient that delivers those irresistible pockets of melty goodness.
- 2 Tbsp butter for greasing: Ensures pancakes cook evenly with a beautiful golden finish.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips
Start by sifting together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Then stir in the chocolate chips so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This foundation ensures every bite has that perfect texture and just the right bursts of chocolate.
Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients Together
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, vanilla extract, whole milk, and the melted, cooled butter until everything is nicely combined. This mixture adds moisture and richness, helping create pancakes that are tender inside with just a hint of buttery flavor.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and whisk gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; a few lumps are totally fine and help keep your pancakes light and fluffy instead of dense.
Step 4: Heat and Grease Your Pan
Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add 1 tablespoon of butter to grease the surface. This step is crucial for cooking pancakes evenly and getting that lovely golden-brown exterior.
Step 5: Cook Your Pancakes
Using a 1/3 cup measure, pour the batter onto the skillet. If you want an extra chocolatey kick, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top of each pancake before cooking. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set. Flip carefully and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the other side is golden and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the pancakes from the pan and keep them warm while you cook the rest of the batter. You should end up with around 8 to 9 fluffy, chocolate-studded pancakes ready to be devoured. Serve immediately to enjoy that perfect melty chocolate experience at its best.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
For a bit of extra flair, dust your pancakes with powdered sugar or drizzle some warm maple syrup. Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing contrast that pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate chips. Don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts if you like a bit of crunch.
Side Dishes
To make your Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe a full breakfast feast, consider crispy bacon, a side of scrambled eggs, or even some creamy yogurt. These sides balance the sweetness and make your morning meal both satisfying and memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your chocolate chip pancakes in a tall tower for an impressive look, layering them with fruit and spreading a little nut butter in between each layer. Or try serving them as mini pancakes on skewers for a fun twist that kids and adults alike will adore. Presentation makes the experience even more delightful!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them from drying out, you can place a paper towel between the pancakes.
Freezing
These pancakes freeze beautifully. Simply place sheets of parchment paper between pancakes and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. This way, you can enjoy the Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe anytime, even on busy mornings.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pancakes in the toaster or microwave until warm. For best results and to bring back some crispness, use a toaster or heat them briefly on a skillet over medium heat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! While whole milk gives a rich and tender crumb, you can use milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk. Just note the texture might vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
What if I don’t have baking soda?
You can skip the baking soda, but keeping the baking powder is essential to help the pancakes rise properly. The texture might be a little less tender without the soda, but the pancakes will still be tasty.
Can I substitute chocolate chips with something else?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by using white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even small chunks of your favorite chocolate bar. You can even add nuts or dried fruit for some extra flavor and texture.
How do I prevent my pancakes from becoming tough?
The key is not overmixing the batter—mix just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour and lead to dense, tough pancakes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With a few swaps like using a flax egg instead of a regular egg, plant-based milk, and vegan butter, you can easily adapt this Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe for a vegan diet. The results will still be fluffy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of homemade pancakes, especially when they’re studded with melted chocolate chips. This Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe is a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to brighten your morning routine or impress guests with a breakfast that truly feels like a treat. So grab your skillet, some chocolate chips, and get ready to whip up a stack of happiness—you’ll be glad you did.
Print
Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Fluffy, golden chocolate chip pancakes perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch. These pancakes combine classic flavors of vanilla and chocolate chips with a tender, buttery batter cooked to perfection on a skillet, creating a warm and comforting morning treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup dark or milk chocolate chips, regular or mini
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 Tbsp butter for greasing the skillet
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar into a large mixing bowl. Stir in the chocolate chips evenly and set the mixture aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, whole milk, and melted unsalted butter until smooth and well combined.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk gently just until incorporated; avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large skillet or griddle on medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of butter to grease the surface, ensuring an even cooking surface and flavor.
- Cook the Pancakes: Using a 1/3 cup measuring cup, pour the batter onto the skillet to form pancakes. Optionally sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove the pancakes from the skillet and continue cooking the remaining batter with butter as needed. Serve the pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings and enjoy them warm.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent tough pancakes; a few small lumps are okay.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better batter consistency and fluffier pancakes.
- For extra indulgence, add more chocolate chips on top before flipping.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a low oven while finishing the batch.
- Substitute whole milk with any milk alternative for a dairy-free option, adjusting butter accordingly.
