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Chocolate Pancakes

Chocolate Pancakes - recipe card
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Light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes infused with rich cocoa powder and studded with melted dark chocolate chips. Each bite is tender, moist, and deeply chocolatey, with a subtle tang from the buttermilk that balances the sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, shaken
  • 1 large egg (50g, about 6g protein, 5g fat, 0.5g carbs, 72 cal)
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Butter or neutral oil for the skillet (about 1-2 teaspoons per batch)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and fine sea salt until fully combined and no lumps of cocoa remain. Sifting the cocoa first ensures a smooth batter without clumps.
  2. In a separate medium bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform. The buttermilk’s acidity reacts with the leavening agents for extra fluffiness.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until just combined — a few small lumps are fine. Do not overmix, as that develops gluten and results in tough, dense pancakes. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while you preheat the skillet.
  4. Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter with a few swift strokes, reserving a tablespoon or two to sprinkle on top of the pancakes after pouring if desired. Overmixing at this stage can break the chips into small pieces and create streaks.
  5. Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and let it warm for 2-3 minutes. To test readiness, flick a drop of water on the surface — it should sizzle and evaporate immediately. Add 1 teaspoon of butter or oil and swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
  6. Using a 1/4-cup measuring cup (about 60ml), pour the batter onto the hot skillet, leaving at least 2 inches between pancakes to allow spreading. If you reserved chocolate chips, sprinkle a few onto the wet surface of each pancake immediately after pouring.
  7. Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes, or until you see small bubbles forming around the edges and the surface looks slightly matte with tiny bubbles popping. The bottom should be deep golden brown — lift a corner gently to peek if needed.
  8. Flip the pancakes using a thin spatula in one confident motion and cook on the second side for 1-2 minutes, until puffed and set in the center. The second side cooks faster; do not press down on the pancake with the spatula as that squeezes out air pockets.
  9. Transfer the cooked pancakes to a wire rack or warm plate in a 200°F (93°C) oven to keep warm while you repeat with the remaining batter. Avoid stacking them directly as steam can make them soggy — use parchment or a clean towel between layers if stacking.
  10. Serve the pancakes immediately while still warm, topped with a pat of butter, a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a decadent twist, add a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of chocolate-hazelnut spread.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing: Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm (about 1 hour), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat: For best texture, reheat in a toaster at medium setting, or in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-7 minutes wrapped in foil. Avoid microwaving, which makes them rubbery.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate pancakes, breakfast pancakes, cocoa pancakes, buttermilk pancakes, chocolate chip pancakes, easy pancakes, fluffy pancakes, homemade pancakes, weekend breakfast, chocolate breakfast

Find it online: https://copycatkitchenco.com/chocolate-pancakes/