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There’s something truly comforting about a stack of warm chocolate chip pancakes in the morning. This recipe is perfect for busy households where mornings are rushed but everyone still deserves a delicious start to their day. Ready in just 25 minutes, these pancakes are fluffy, sweet, and loaded with melty chocolate chips, making breakfast feel like a special occasion any day of the week.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: provides the soft, tender base that yields fluffy pancakes
- Sugar: adds just the right amount of sweetness brown sugar works if you prefer richer notes
- Baking powder: ensures the pancakes rise nicely, giving them that perfect light texture
- Salt: enhances the overall flavors making each bite well balanced
- Milk: brings moisture and richness you can swap in almond or oat milk for dairy-free options
- Large egg: helps bind everything together and adds a lovely richness to the batter
- Melted butter: gives buttery flavor and a tender crumb coconut oil is a good alternative if you avoid dairy
- Chocolate chips: are the star ingredient—use semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate for your desired level of sweetness or flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until everything is evenly mixed. This step is key for an even rise and prevents clumping in your batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is just warm, not hot, so it won’t cook the egg. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your pancakes for that light, tender texture.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently using a spatula or spoon just until combined. The batter will have a few lumps, and that’s perfect. Overmixing can make the pancakes tough or dense.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips:
- Gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter so they are evenly distributed. This step ensures every pancake will have pockets of melted chocolate that make each bite extra delightful.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour about a quarter cup of batter for each pancake. Cook them until bubbles form across the surface and the edges start to look set before flipping. Cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Stack your pancakes on a plate and serve warm. Add syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or extra chocolate chips on top to make this breakfast extra special.
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I love the way the chocolate chips melt just right, creating gooey sweet spots that are so satisfying. One memorable weekend, making these pancakes became a cozy ritual for my family, bringing everyone together around the table and filling the house with an irresistible aroma.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will keep for 2 to 3 days. To enjoy them later, reheat in the microwave or toaster for a quick warm breakfast. For long term storage, freeze cooled pancakes stacked with parchment paper between each to prevent sticking. They freeze well up to 2 months and can be reheated straight from the freezer.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a dairy-free option swap milk for almond or oat milk and butter for melted coconut oil. Try using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper sweetness. Whole wheat flour can replace part or all of the all-purpose flour for a heartier texture and added fiber. For a vegan version replace the egg with a flax egg made by mixing ground flaxseed and water.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these chocolate chip pancakes with fresh berries or banana slices for a refreshing burst of flavor. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein as a side or topping. Maple syrup drizzled on top is a classic finishing touch. For an indulgent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle extra chocolate chips over the stack for a beautiful presentation.
Pro Tips
Rest the batter for 5 minutes before cooking to allow gluten to relax resulting in fluffier pancakes. Cook on medium heat for even cooking without burning the exterior while ensuring the inside is cooked through. Use a non-stick skillet or griddle to prevent sticking and make flipping easier; avoid pressing down on the pancakes after flipping to keep them light and fluffy.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can mix the batter the night before and keep it refrigerated. Just stir gently before cooking to maintain fluffiness.
- → What are good alternatives to chocolate chips?
Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, chopped nuts, or peanut butter chips offer delicious variations to the classic chocolate chip flavor.
- → How should leftover pancakes be stored?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or toaster for best results.
- → Can these pancakes be frozen?
Yes, freeze cooled pancakes stacked with parchment paper between layers in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
- → What toppings complement chocolate chip pancakes?
Fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of nuts add wonderful texture and flavor contrasts to the warm pancakes.