Pancakes are the ultimate breakfast comfort food, and when you add chocolate chips into the mix, you’re in for a real treat. Perfect for lazy weekends or when you need a sweet start to your day, these pancakes are guaranteed to make you smile.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of buttermilk and baking powder ensures your pancakes are fluffy and light every time.
- Melted butter adds richness and depth to the batter, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
- Chocolate chips melt slightly as they cook, creating pockets of gooey chocolate that are pure bliss.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to cater to dietary needs or preferences.
- It’s a one-bowl recipe, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your pancakes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your pancakes will have an even texture and rise properly. Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can make your pancakes even fluffier.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In the same bowl, add the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until just combined; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes. Tip: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to activate the baking powder for extra fluffiness.
Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter. This ensures they’re evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat (about 350°F). Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Tip: Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your pancakes warm with maple syrup, extra chocolate chips, or any toppings you love. Enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor!
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure your buttermilk is at room temperature to help the ingredients blend more smoothly. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. For evenly cooked pancakes, avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider using an electric griddle to make more pancakes at once. Lastly, for an extra special touch, try using a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips for a more complex flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
- For a healthier twist, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Add a mashed banana to the batter for banana chocolate chip pancakes.
- Use white chocolate chips and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a different flavor.
- For a festive version, add a handful of sprinkles to the batter along with the chocolate chips.
- Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before cooking. However, the pancakes might not be as fluffy as when cooked immediately after mixing.
Can I freeze these pancakes?
Absolutely! Let the pancakes cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or microwave.
How can I make sure my pancakes are fluffy?
The key to fluffy pancakes is not overmixing the batter and ensuring your baking powder is fresh. Also, letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking can help.
Summary
These fluffy chocolate chip pancakes are the perfect way to start your day. Easy to make and customizable, they’re sure to become a breakfast favorite.