Mini Pancakes

Introduction

Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This dish features sunny-side-up eggs atop crispy corn tortillas, smothered with a vibrant and slightly spicy ranchero sauce made from tomatoes, chilies, and fresh herbs. Paired with a side of beans, avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese, Huevos Rancheros is a comforting, satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. It’s a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors and enjoy a satisfying, protein-packed breakfast.

I remember the first time I made Huevos Rancheros for a brunch gathering. The combination of the crispy tortillas, runny eggs, and spicy sauce was such a hit with everyone. The vibrant colors of the dish made it feel special, and the rich flavors paired perfectly with the creamy avocado and beans on the side. It quickly became one of my go-to meals when I want something hearty and satisfying. Whether for a lazy weekend breakfast or a dinner with friends, Huevos Rancheros is always a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Kids’ parties or playdates
• Family gatherings
• Pancake lovers
• Snack time

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Mini Pancakes will quickly become a breakfast favorite:

• Fun and Bite-Sized: Their mini size makes them fun to eat and easy to share.
• Customizable Toppings: You can top them with your favorite fruits, syrups, and spreads for a personalized experience.
• Fluffy and Light: These pancakes have the perfect fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Quick and Easy: They come together in no time, making them a perfect go-to breakfast or snack.
• Perfect for Little Hands: Mini pancakes are the ideal size for kids or anyone who wants a smaller portion of their favorite breakfast.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approx. 20-25 mini pancakes)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories (depending on toppings)
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mini Pancakes:

For the Pancakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or plant-based butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Toppings (Optional):

• Maple syrup
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Whipped cream
• Powdered sugar
• Nutella or fruit preserves

Ingredient Highlights

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the pancake batter, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the batter, making the pancakes tender.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the pancakes rise to a perfect fluffiness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Butter: Adds richness to the pancakes and helps with browning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Mini Pancakes:

Prepare the Pancake Batter:

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
3. Mix the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Cook the Mini Pancakes:

4. Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a bit of butter or oil.
5. Make the Mini Pancakes: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the skillet, forming mini pancakes. Space them out to allow room for spreading. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges appear set.
6. Flip the Pancakes: Flip the mini pancakes over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed.

Serve and Enjoy:

7. Stack and Serve: Stack the mini pancakes on a plate and serve immediately. Top with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

How to Serve

Mini Pancakes are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:

• Classic with Maple Syrup: Stack them high and drizzle with maple syrup for the traditional pancake experience.
• With Fresh Fruit: Add fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top for a fruity and refreshing twist.
• With Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream makes a sweet addition to these mini pancakes.
• As a Snack or Dessert: Serve them with a spread like Nutella or fruit preserves for a fun, sweet treat.
• With a Side of Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy complement.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to make your Mini Pancakes even better:

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes. Stir until just combined for the fluffiest results.
• Keep Them Warm: If making a large batch, keep the pancakes warm by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C).
• Add Mix-ins: Feel free to add mini chocolate chips, chopped fruit, or nuts to the batter for added flavor and texture.
• Customize the Toppings: Switch up your toppings depending on the season—try warm caramelized bananas in the fall or a citrus glaze in the spring.

Recipe Variations

Here are 5 variations you can try for Mini Pancakes:

• Banana Mini Pancakes: Mash half a banana into the batter for a natural sweetness and added moisture.
• Blueberry Mini Pancakes: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Vegan Mini Pancakes: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use a plant-based milk and butter.
• Chocolate Chip Mini Pancakes: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet and indulgent twist.
• Cinnamon Mini Pancakes: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Mini Pancakes freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Mini Pancakes easier:

• Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: A non-stick surface makes flipping the mini pancakes a breeze.
• Small Cookie Scoop: A scoop helps portion out uniform pancakes for even cooking.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dry and wet ingredients smoothly without overmixing.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping the pancakes without damaging their shape.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
   Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends, but the texture might vary slightly.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the pancakes ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat before serving.
3. Can I add protein powder to the batter?
   Yes, adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can make these pancakes a more filling option. Just be sure to adjust the liquid to maintain the right consistency.
4. Can I make them without eggs?
   Yes, you can use a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute for the egg in this recipe.
5. How can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
   Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use a dairy-free milk (such as almond milk or oat milk) to make this recipe dairy-free.

Print

Conclusion

Mini Pancakes are a fun, delicious, and versatile treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether served as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, they’re sure to put a smile on your face. With their fluffy texture, golden color, and endless topping possibilities, these mini pancakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Make them for your next gathering, or enjoy them as a special treat anytime—you’ll be glad you did! Whether topped with syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar, the options are endless for creating the perfect bite-sized pancake experience.

I’d love to see your Mini Pancakes in action! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see how you top them! Happy cooking!