Coffee Pancakes Recipe

If you’re a coffee lover, then you’re in for a treat with these Coffee Pancakes! Combining the rich, bold flavor of espresso with the soft, fluffy texture of pancakes, this recipe is a match made in breakfast heaven. These pancakes are perfect for those mornings when you need an extra pick-me-up or when you want to impress your brunch guests with something a little different. The added espresso glaze drizzled over the top takes these pancakes to a whole new level, making them a decadent yet easy-to-make dish.

Why You’ll Love These Coffee Pancakes

Perfect for Breakfast and Brunch

These Coffee Pancakes are not just for early risers—they’re the star of any breakfast or brunch table. The hint of espresso in the batter gives a unique twist to traditional pancakes, making them an exciting addition to your morning routine. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just treating yourself to a special breakfast, these pancakes are sure to please.

Kid-Friendly and Easily Customizable

Despite the sophisticated flavor profile, these pancakes are surprisingly kid-friendly. The mini chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness that balances out the bitterness of the espresso, making them a hit with children and adults alike. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different toppings or add-ins, so everyone can enjoy them just the way they like.

Ingredients for Coffee Pancakes

Pancake Ingredients List

To make these delicious Coffee Pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter, divided use – Adds richness to the pancakes and prevents them from sticking to the griddle.
• 2 cups flour – The base for your pancake batter, giving it structure.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Ensures your pancakes are light and fluffy.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to the batter.
• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder – Infuses the batter with a deep coffee flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 2 cups buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang to the pancakes, helping to tenderize the batter.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips – Adds pockets of melted chocolate throughout the pancakes.

Espresso Glaze Ingredients List

The espresso glaze is a simple yet luxurious addition that perfectly complements the coffee flavor in the pancakes:

• 2 cups powdered sugar – The base for the glaze, adding sweetness and a smooth texture.
• 2 tablespoons of buttermilk – Helps achieve the desired consistency for the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder – Intensifies the coffee flavor in the glaze.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

• Griddle or Large Skillet – A griddle provides an even cooking surface, perfect for pancakes, while a large skillet works just as well.
• Mixing Bowls – You’ll need one for the dry ingredients and another for the wet ingredients.
• Whisk – Essential for mixing both the dry and wet ingredients without over-mixing.
• Ladle or Measuring Cup – For portioning the pancake batter onto the griddle.
• Spatula – For flipping the pancakes without breaking them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure precise measurements for the ingredients.

How to Make Coffee Pancakes

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Melt the Butter: Start by melting one tablespoon of butter in a griddle or large skillet over medium-low heat. This will prevent the pancakes from sticking and add a rich flavor to the batter.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, powdered sugar, instant espresso powder, and salt. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small cup or bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, the remaining tablespoon of melted butter, and the eggs. Pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
4. Mix the Batter: Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Be careful not to over-mix; it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy. Over-mixing can result in tough pancakes.
5. Cook the Pancakes: Check the heat of your griddle by holding your hand a few inches above the surface; it should be warm enough that you can only hold it there for about 5 seconds. Ladle heaping ¼ cups of pancake batter onto the griddle. Immediately sprinkle each pancake with a few mini chocolate chips.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking: Let the pancakes cook until bubbles form around the edges and the underside is golden brown. Flip the pancakes carefully with a spatula and cook for another minute or two until the other side is done.
7. Prepare the Espresso Glaze: While the pancakes are cooking, whisk together the powdered sugar, buttermilk, and instant espresso powder in a small bowl until the glaze is smooth and runny.
8. Serve: Divide the pancakes between plates, drizzle with the espresso glaze, and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich coffee flavor and the melting chocolate in every bite!

Tips for Perfectly Fluffy Pancakes

• Don’t Over-mix the Batter: Stirring the batter too much can activate the gluten in the flour, leading to dense, chewy pancakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Use Fresh Baking Powder: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Old baking powder can lose its potency, resulting in flat pancakes.
• Cook on Medium-Low Heat: Cooking the pancakes on medium-low heat ensures they cook evenly without burning on the outside while remaining raw on the inside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-mixing the Batter: One of the most common mistakes when making pancakes is over-mixing the batter. It’s tempting to stir until smooth, but that can make your pancakes tough. Instead, mix until just combined—some lumps are perfectly fine.
• Cooking Pancakes on High Heat: Another common mistake is cooking pancakes on too high a heat. While it may speed up the process, it often results in burnt exteriors and undercooked interiors. Stick to medium-low heat for evenly cooked, golden-brown pancakes.

Serving Suggestions for Coffee Pancakes

Topping Ideas Beyond the Glaze

While the espresso glaze is a delicious topping, you can also get creative with other options:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness that pairs well with the rich coffee flavor.
• Sliced Bananas: The natural sweetness of bananas complements the espresso perfectly.

Perfect Sides to Pair with Coffee Pancakes

Serve these pancakes with a side of crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast or brunch spread. A cup of hot coffee or a frothy cappuccino would be the ideal beverage pairing to enhance the coffee flavor in the pancakes.

Storage and Leftovers

How to Store and Reheat Coffee Pancakes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them up in a skillet over low heat. This will help retain their texture and flavor.

Can You Freeze Coffee Pancakes?

Yes! These pancakes freeze well. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, microwave them directly from the freezer or warm them in a low oven until heated through.

Variations and Swaps

Different Ways to Customize Your Pancakes

• Mocha Pancakes: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha twist.
• Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee Pancakes: Sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon into the batter for a warm, spicy flavor.
• Nutty Coffee Pancakes: Stir in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Vegan Pancakes: Substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk (like almond or oat) mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs.

FAQs about Coffee Pancakes

• Can I Use Regular Coffee Instead of Instant Espresso Powder? While instant espresso powder provides a concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid, you can use regular brewed coffee. However, reduce the amount of buttermilk slightly to account for the added liquid.
• Can I Make This Recipe Vegan or Gluten-Free? Absolutely! See the variations section above for detailed instructions on making these pancakes vegan or gluten-free. Both versions are just as delicious and can accommodate various dietary needs.

Conclusion

These Coffee Pancakes are the perfect way to start your day with a burst of coffee flavor and a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch or just because, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your breakfast rotation. If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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