Mini pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, offering bite-sized bursts of flavor that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch party, preparing a weekend breakfast for the family, or exploring meal-prep-friendly breakfast options, these fluffy mini pancakes are a surefire way to impress. Their versatility, from sweet to savory, allows you to customize mini pancakes with your favorite ingredients and toppings. Pair them with fresh fruits, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to transform a simple dish into a stunning treat. With their easy preparation and endless possibilities, mini pancakes have become a beloved breakfast option for people of all ages.

Not only are mini pancakes quick to prepare, but they’re also a fun way to involve kids in the kitchen. Creating perfectly round pancakes on a non-stick griddle is a skill that even beginners can master. Plus, they’re perfect for creative presentations like skewers or breakfast platters. If you’re exploring other fun and simple recipes, don’t miss our guide on How To Make Small Circular Pancakes, which provides helpful tips for nailing the perfect size and shape. Looking to pair your pancakes with something healthy? Check out our recipe for Coconut Chia Pudding to balance your breakfast.

Mini pancakes are an excellent way to start your day with joy and creativity. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or a regular morning, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Keep reading to learn the step-by-step process to create these adorable pancakes and explore creative ways to serve them.

Mini Pancakes Recipe

Author: Kamilia Chef
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 40 mini pancakes 1x

Print Recipe

Description

These Mini Pancakes are the perfect bite-sized breakfast treat! Light, fluffy, and irresistibly cute, they’re great for kids, brunch gatherings, or even as a fun dessert. Serve them with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar for a delightful experience. Quick and easy to make, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pancakes:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
¾ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra fluffiness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for greasing the pan)

Optional Toppings:

Maple syrup
Fresh berries
Powdered sugar
Whipped cream
Chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 2: Preheat the Pan

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or a bit of oil.

Step 3: Cook the Mini Pancakes

Use a tablespoon or a small squeeze bottle to drop small dollops of batter onto the skillet (about 1-inch circles).
Cook for 1–2 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer the pancakes to a plate and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 4: Serve

Arrange the mini pancakes on a platter or in small stacks. Top with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For evenly round mini pancakes, use a squeeze bottle for precise portioning.
These pancakes freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or toaster.
To make chocolate chip pancakes, sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips onto the batter right after pouring it onto the skillet.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Kid-Friendly
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 200
Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 25
Protein: 5

Why You’ll Love This Mini Pancakes Recipe:

Mini pancakes are a versatile and delicious breakfast option that’s loved by kids and adults alike. Here’s why you should try making them:

Simple and Quick to Make: Mini pancakes come together in just minutes, making them a go-to choice for busy mornings.
Fun for the Whole Family: Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, mini pancakes are easy to eat, and they add a fun element to your breakfast.
Perfect for Meal Prep: You can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them, making mornings even easier.
Adaptable to Different Flavors: From sweet to savory, mini pancakes can be customized to fit any palate.
Great for Parties and Brunches: Mini pancakes are a great addition to brunch spreads and breakfast buffets, allowing guests to choose their toppings and build their own creations.

These are just a few reasons why you’ll love making mini pancakes. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Now, let’s break down the essential ingredients that make this recipe work.

Key Ingredients in the Mini Pancakes:

To make the best mini pancakes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are staples in most kitchens. Here’s what you need to get started:

All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your pancakes. It gives them a soft, fluffy texture.
Baking powder: The secret ingredient that gives your pancakes lift and fluffiness. It helps create that light, airy texture that makes mini pancakes so enjoyable.
Egg: Provides structure and moisture to the pancakes.
Milk: Use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk to create a smooth batter. Whole milk will give you richer pancakes, while skim milk will result in a lighter texture.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor. Make sure to use unsalted butter to control the salt content.
Vanilla extract (optional): For a hint of sweetness and warmth. You can use almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
Sugar: A small amount to sweeten the pancakes slightly. You can adjust this to your preference. Brown sugar will add more depth of flavor.

These ingredients work together to create the perfect pancake base. But it’s the method that makes the difference. Let’s take a deeper look into the steps for making these mini pancakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Mini Pancakes:

Making mini pancakes is quick and easy. Follow these steps to achieve fluffy, golden-brown mini pancakes every time:

Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sugar. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps prevent clumps in the batter. Sifting also adds air into the flour, which helps create a fluffier pancake texture.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter (or oil). If you’re using vanilla extract, add it to the wet ingredients at this stage. The vanilla extract will infuse the batter with a subtle sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this could result in dense pancakes. It’s okay if the batter has a few lumps—this will make the pancakes light and airy. Overmixing the batter can activate the gluten in the flour, making your pancakes tough.
Cook the pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter or oil. Once the pan is hot, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the pan. Aim for about 1 tablespoon of batter per pancake for that perfect mini size. You should be able to fit 4-5 mini pancakes on a standard pan at once.
Flip the pancakes: Cook the pancakes until you see small bubbles forming on the surface, about 1-2 minutes. This is a sign that the pancakes are ready to flip. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown. If you notice that the pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow them to cook evenly without burning.
Serve and enjoy!: Stack your mini pancakes and serve them hot with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Garnish with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Expert Tips:

Making the perfect mini pancakes can seem simple, but there are a few expert tips and tricks that can elevate your pancakes from good to great. Here are some tried-and-true methods that will help you achieve the fluffiest, most delicious mini pancakes every time:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients:

While this might seem like a small detail, using room temperature ingredients is key to ensuring your pancake batter mixes evenly and results in a smoother texture. Cold milk, eggs, and butter can cause the batter to clump, which affects the consistency and ultimately the fluffiness of the pancakes. For best results, let your ingredients sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before you start mixing.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter:

One of the most common mistakes when making pancakes is overmixing the batter. While it’s tempting to stir the batter until smooth, overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which leads to dense, rubbery pancakes. Instead, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy. These lumps will dissolve as the pancakes cook, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

3. Adjust the Heat of the Pan:

Cooking your pancakes at the right temperature is crucial to getting a perfect golden brown color and fluffy texture. If the pan is too hot, the pancakes will brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw in the middle. On the other hand, a pan that’s too cool will result in pancakes that take longer to cook and may turn out tough. The ideal cooking temperature is medium-low. To test if the pan is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface—if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, the pan is ready.

4. Use a Non-Stick Pan or Griddle:

A non-stick surface is ideal for cooking mini pancakes. It ensures that the pancakes don’t stick and makes flipping them easier. If you don’t have a non-stick pan, you can use a regular skillet, but be sure to grease it lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Using a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet can also help if you prefer that option.

5. Add Extra Baking Powder for Extra Fluffiness:

If you want your mini pancakes to be extra fluffy, consider adding an additional teaspoon of baking powder. This will give the pancakes more lift, making them even lighter and airier. Be careful not to add too much, though, as too much baking powder can give the pancakes a bitter taste. A little extra goes a long way!

6. Keep Pancakes Warm While You Cook the Rest:

If you’re making pancakes for a crowd, it’s important to keep the pancakes warm until you’re ready to serve them. You can place the cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a preheated oven set to 200°F (93°C) to keep them warm. This way, you can cook all the pancakes at once without worrying about them cooling down before serving. Another option is to cover them with a clean kitchen towel to retain warmth.

7. Don’t Rush the Flip:

Waiting for the right moment to flip your mini pancakes is key. If you flip them too early, they might break apart or remain raw on the inside. Look for small bubbles forming on the surface of the pancake, and when the edges start to look set (but not dry), that’s the perfect time to flip. This will help ensure the pancakes cook evenly on both sides, resulting in a golden, fluffy texture.

8. Experiment with Add-Ins:

While the classic mini pancakes recipe is delicious on its own, you can experiment with different add-ins to create a unique flavor profile. For a chocolatey twist, fold in some chocolate chips. If you want to add a fruity touch, you can stir in blueberries, sliced bananas, or even diced apples. For a more savory version, try mixing in some cheddar cheese or bacon bits. Add-ins are a fun way to personalize your mini pancakes and try new flavor combinations.

9. Keep the Toppings Simple (or Go Wild):

While maple syrup is the traditional topping for pancakes, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. For a healthier option, try topping your pancakes with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of honey. If you prefer a more indulgent treat, pile on whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or nutella. For a fun twist, turn your mini pancakes into a build-your-own pancake bar with a variety of toppings for everyone to choose from.

10. Use a Cookie Scoop for Consistent Pancakes:

For perfectly round, evenly-sized mini pancakes, use a small cookie scoop to measure the batter. This ensures that each pancake is the same size, which makes cooking and flipping much easier. A standard cookie scoop is usually about 1 tablespoon, making it the ideal size for mini pancakes.

Creative Serving Ideas :

Mini pancakes are incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to serve them that will impress your guests:

Toppings:
- Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
- A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- A drizzle of honey, chocolate syrup, or nut butter.
- A dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Mini Pancake Skewers:
- Stack the mini pancakes on skewers and alternate with fruits like banana slices, strawberries, or grapes.
- Serve with a side of maple syrup or chocolate sauce for dipping.
- For a festive touch, use mini marshmallows or pieces of chocolate for a fun, interactive breakfast experience.
For Special Occasions:
- Use mini pancakes as a base for pancake towers or serve them on a platter at a brunch gathering.
- Create mini pancake sandwiches by adding layers of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese.
Mini Pancake Tacos:
- Fold the mini pancakes like a taco shell and fill them with fruit, whipped cream, or yogurt. This fun presentation works especially well for kids.

Variations of Mini Pancakes:

While the classic mini pancakes are delicious on their own, you can get creative with different variations. Here are a few ideas to try:

Savory Mini Pancakes:
Add chopped herbs, shredded cheese, or even bacon bits into the batter for a savory twist. Top them with avocado or a fried egg for a breakfast treat. If you’re into spicy food, a dash of hot sauce or jalapenos will add an exciting kick.
Sweet Mini Pancakes:
Add chocolate chips, cinnamon, or even mashed bananas to the batter. For a fruity twist, fold in blueberries or strawberries right before cooking. Pumpkin puree can be added to the batter in the fall to create spiced pumpkin mini pancakes.
Mini Pancake Skewers:
Thread mini pancakes on skewers with fresh fruit for an easy-to-eat breakfast or snack. You can also alternate with chocolate pieces or marshmallows for a fun treat.
Vegan Mini Pancakes:
Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use almond milk or coconut milk. Make sure to use a vegan butter substitute, like coconut oil.

FAQs:

How can I store mini pancakes?

Mini pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the pancakes in a single layer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or toast them in a toaster oven.

Can I make mini pancakes without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs in the recipe with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons of water), applesauce, or mashed bananas. These substitutes will work to bind the ingredients together.

Can I make mini pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, mini pancakes can be made ahead of time. Prepare them and store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them in the microwave or on a griddle for a quick breakfast.

Why do my mini pancakes not cook all the way through?

If your pancakes are not cooking all the way through, your pan might be too hot. Make sure to cook on medium-low heat to allow the pancakes to cook evenly. If they are browning too quickly on the outside, reduce the heat.

Conclusion

Mini pancakes are more than just a breakfast food—they’re an opportunity to bring fun, flavor, and creativity to your table. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for serving at brunches, family breakfasts, or even as a dessert option for parties. Whether you enjoy them with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or layered on skewers with fresh fruit, mini pancakes provide endless possibilities to explore. If you’re looking for a savory twist, try incorporating shredded cheese or herbs into the batter for a unique variation. For more creative pancake ideas, visit our article on Mini Pancakes Creative Recipes.

What makes mini pancakes so special is their ability to suit any dietary preference or flavor profile. From vegan-friendly recipes to protein-packed variations, there’s a version of mini pancakes for everyone. If you’re hosting a breakfast buffet, consider pairing them with other crowd-pleasing recipes like our Breakfast Burritos or serving them alongside a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Taco Soup.

Now that you have all the tools to create the perfect mini pancakes, it’s time to get started! Gather your ingredients, experiment with toppings, and bring joy to your breakfast table. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creations and share them with us on social media. Follow us for more delicious recipes and inspiration on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and X. We’d love to see your pancake masterpieces!