Espresso Chip Pancakes

There’s no better way to upgrade your brunch game than with these rich and fluffy Espresso Chip Pancakes. Packed with a gentle hit of espresso and warm puddles of melted chocolate chips, each bite delivers a balance of cozy comfort and café-style flair. I first served these on a chilly Sunday and now they’re a frequent weekend request in my home.

I first made these during a slow winter morning and was surprised how something so easy could feel so special. Now my sister requests them whenever she visits.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: adds structure and keeps the texture fluffy
• Granulated sugar: gives a light sweetness without overpowering
• Baking powder: provides lift and softness
• Salt: enhances flavor and balances the chocolate
• Instant espresso powder: gives depth and a mild coffee kick
• Whole milk: creates a smooth batter and rich crumb
• Large egg: helps bind and enrich the pancake
• Melted unsalted butter: adds moisture and a golden finish
• Vanilla extract: boosts the warm and sweet aroma
• Mini semisweet chocolate chips: melt easily and distribute evenly
• Butter or oil: for greasing the skillet and helping with browning
• Maple syrup: adds a sweet finish that complements the espresso notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together the flour sugar baking powder salt and espresso powder in a medium bowl until everything is evenly combined and smooth

Whisk the Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl beat the milk egg melted butter and vanilla until fully blended and smooth with no streaks

Combine Batter:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry and gently stir with a spatula or spoon just until the flour disappears and the batter looks lumpy but not overmixed

Add the Chocolate Chips:

Fold in the mini chocolate chips and let the batter sit for about five minutes so the flour can fully hydrate and the batter thickens slightly

Preheat the Pan:

Heat a non stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil once it begins to shimmer

Cook the Pancakes:

Scoop about one quarter cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake and spread gently if needed let cook until bubbles form and the edges start to set around two to three minutes

Flip and Finish:

Carefully flip each pancake and cook another one to two minutes until golden brown and cooked through

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the pancakes to a plate and serve immediately with a warm drizzle of maple syrup or your favorite toppings

Bookmark

Storage Tips

You can store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat them in a toaster oven or warm skillet to bring back the crisp edges For longer storage freeze between layers of parchment and microwave straight from frozen

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat flour for more fiber and a nuttier taste Replace dairy milk with oat or almond milk for a dairy free version Swap the egg for a flax egg if making it vegan friendly

Bookmark

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas for natural sweetness Top with Greek yogurt or whipped cream for added indulgence Pair with turkey sausage or scrambled eggs for a heartier meal

Cultural Context

Espresso chip pancakes bring together American brunch comfort and Italian coffee tradition Inspired by mocha flavor combinations often found in European pastries They bring a coffee shop experience into your home kitchen with ease

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes without espresso powder?

Yes, you can omit the espresso powder. The pancakes will still be fluffy and delicious, but without the coffee flavor.

→ What kind of chocolate works best for this?

Mini semisweet chocolate chips melt evenly and pair well with espresso. You can also try dark or white chocolate for variation.

→ How do I keep pancakes fluffy?

Avoid overmixing the batter and let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking. Use medium heat to cook them evenly without drying out.

→ Can I double or halve the batch?

Absolutely. This recipe scales easily. Just adjust ingredient quantities proportionally and maintain the same cooking process.

→ What are some good toppings?

Maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder make great toppings. You can also infuse syrup with vanilla or cinnamon.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

The espresso flavor is mild, so it can be kid-friendly. You may reduce or omit the espresso powder for a more neutral taste.