Super Delicious French Toast Pancakes Recipe In Just 30 minutes
French Toast Pancakes represent a delightful fusion of two beloved breakfast classics, marrying the rich, custardy essence of French toast with the fluffy, comforting texture of pancakes. This culinary creation is a testament to the innovative spirit of modern cuisine, blending traditional flavors in an unexpected and delightful way.
At the heart of French Toast Pancakes lies a simple yet ingenious concept: thick, pancake-like batter infused with the characteristic ingredients of French toast – eggs, milk, and a hint of vanilla or cinnamon. The result is a dish that offers the best of both worlds – the tender, slightly chewy texture of French toast and the satisfying, cake-like density of pancakes. Often griddled to golden perfection, these pancakes present a lightly crisped exterior that yields to a luxuriously soft interior.
French Toast Pancakes are not just a culinary innovation; they are a canvas for creativity. Toppings range from the traditional – like maple syrup and powdered sugar – to the more adventurous, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or even savory options like bacon and eggs. This versatility makes them a hit in both home kitchens and trendy brunch spots, appealing to a wide array of tastes and dietary preferences. In essence, French Toast Pancakes are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and texture, a delightful twist on familiar favorites that promises to awaken the taste buds and bring a touch of joy to the breakfast table.
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
20 minutes
Total time
30 minutes
Course
Breakfast
Cuisine
American
Servings
8 persons
Tools Needed
Large mixing bowl – for combining dry ingredients
Medium mixing bowl – for mixing wet ingredients
Whisk – for mixing ingredients smoothly
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
Griddle or large non-stick skillet – for cooking pancakes
Spatula – for flipping pancakes
Ladle or large spoon – for pouring batter onto the griddle
Wire rack – for cooling pancakes (optional, prevents them from becoming soggy)
Serving plates – for serving
Sifter or small sieve – for dusting powdered sugar (optional)
Ingredients for French Toast Pancakes
All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Baking powder – 4 teaspoons
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons
Nutmeg (optional) – 1/4 teaspoon
Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
Large eggs – 4
Whole milk – 1 1/2 cups
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
Unsalted butter, melted – 1/4 cup, plus extra for cooking
Maple syrup – for serving
Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) – for garnish (optional)
Powdered sugar – for dusting (optional)
How to make French Toast Pancakes?
Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (if using).
In a separate medium bowl, beat the 4 large eggs. Add 1 1/2 cups of whole milk, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter to the eggs. Mix well.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy; do not overmix.
Heat the Griddle or Skillet
Preheat a griddle or a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush the surface with some melted butter.
Cook the Pancakes
Using a ladle or large spoon, pour batter onto the hot griddle to form pancakes of your desired size.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
Flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Keep Pancakes Warm
As you cook the pancakes, you can keep them warm by placing them on a wire rack in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F). This helps prevent them from getting soggy.
How to serve French Toast Pancakes?
Classic Maple and Butter: Start with the basics. Drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancakes and add a pat of butter for a traditional, comforting taste. This simple approach lets the unique flavor of the French Toast Pancakes shine.
Fresh Fruit Fiesta: Top your pancakes with an assortment of fresh fruits. Sliced strawberries, bananas, blueberries, or a berry medley not only add vibrant colors but also a natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the rich pancakes.
Whipped Cream and Chocolate Chips: For a decadent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle some chocolate chips over the pancakes. This combination is especially appealing to kids and those with a sweet tooth.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a crunchy texture. This adds a delightful nutty flavor and a boost of protein.
Yogurt and Honey: For a healthier option, serve the pancakes with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This combination provides a creamy texture and a balance of sweetness.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Mix some ground cinnamon with granulated sugar and dust this over the warm pancakes. This adds a subtle spice and sweetness, enhancing the French toast element.
Savory Twist: Break the norm by going savory. Top the pancakes with a poached or fried egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a sprinkle of cheese. Add some cooked bacon or sausage on the side for a full breakfast.
Citrus Zest: Grate some orange or lemon zest over the pancakes for a zesty, fragrant twist. This adds a fresh and slightly tangy flavor that cuts through the richness.
Syrup Variety: Instead of maple syrup, experiment with other syrup flavors like blueberry, raspberry, or even caramel.
Dessert Pancakes: Turn your French Toast Pancakes into a dessert by adding a scoop of ice cream on top, along with some chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle.
What to serve with French Toast Pancakes ?
Savory Side Dishes
Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty, savory flavors of bacon or sausage beautifully contrast the sweetness of the pancakes.
Scrambled or Poached Eggs: Light, fluffy eggs complement the denser texture of the pancakes, offering a protein-rich side.
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier twist, serve with a mix of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini.
Sweet Accompaniments
Fruit Compote or Jam: A side of fruit compote or jam, such as blueberry or strawberry, adds a delightful burst of flavor.
Apple Sauce: Its smooth texture and sweet-tart flavor profile make apple sauce an excellent accompaniment.
Dairy Additions
Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Greek yogurt can add a creamy element.
Assorted Cheeses: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or cream cheese, can offer a savory balance.
Beverage Pairings
Freshly Brewed Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavor of coffee or espresso is a perfect match for the sweet and rich pancakes.
Fresh Orange Juice or a Fruit Smoothie: These refreshing beverages offer a sweet, tangy contrast.
Hot Chocolate or Tea: For those preferring a less caffeinated option, hot chocolate or a warm cup of tea provides a comforting pairing.
Light Salads
Citrus Salad or Green Salad: A light, citrusy salad or a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can add a fresh and light element to balance the meal.
Breads and Spreads
Artisanal Breads with Butter or Jam: Offer a selection of breads with various spreads for those who might enjoy a less sweet option.
Sweet Syrups and Toppings
Maple Syrup, Honey, or Agave Nectar: These sweeteners are classic for a reason and can be served on the side for additional drizzling.
Nuts and Seeds
Toasted Almonds, Pecans, or Chia Seeds: These can add a crunchy texture and a nutritional boost.
Common Mistakes
Overmixing the Batter: This is a cardinal sin in pancake making. Overmixing leads to gluten development, resulting in tough and chewy pancakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
Incorrect Pan Temperature: Cooking pancakes on a pan that’s too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Conversely, a pan that’s not hot enough can result in flat, dense pancakes.
Flipping Too Soon or Too Often: Impatience can lead to broken or undercooked pancakes. Flipping them too soon or too often can prevent them from rising properly.
Not Resting the Batter: Skipping the resting period can affect the texture. Resting allows the flour to absorb the liquid and the baking powder to start working.
Using Old Baking Powder: Baking powder loses its potency over time. Using an old one can result in pancakes that don’t rise properly.
Tips for Perfect French Toast Pancakes
Gentle Mixing: Mix the batter until just combined, and it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This prevents overworking the gluten.
Test the Pan Temperature: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the pan. If they dance around before evaporating, the pan is ready.
Look for Bubbles: Flip the pancakes when bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set.
Rest the Batter: Allow the batter to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before cooking. This gives a lighter, fluffier texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Also, use good quality, fresh eggs and milk for better flavor.
Moderate Thickness: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but pourable. If it’s too thick, thin it with a little milk.
Consistent Size: Use a measuring cup or ladle to pour the batter for consistently sized pancakes.
Keep Them Warm: If serving all at once, keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (200°F) on a baking sheet or wire rack.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Non-Stick Surface: Use a non-stick pan or griddle for easy flipping and less need for cooking oil or butter.
Cool Completely: Allow the pancakes to cool to room temperature. Storing them while still warm can lead to moisture buildup, making them soggy.
Layer with Parchment Paper: Place a sheet of parchment paper between each pancake. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easy to reheat individual servings.
Airtight Container or Ziploc Bag: Store the layered pancakes in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. Removing as much air as possible will help keep them fresh.
Refrigerate or Freeze: If you plan to eat the pancakes within a couple of days, refrigerate them. For longer storage, freeze them. In the freezer, they can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave until warm. If frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first; they can go directly into the toaster or oven for reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s
French Toast Pancakes blend the flavors and textures of traditional pancakes and French toast. They typically include ingredients like eggs, milk, and cinnamon, resulting in a richer, custard-like flavor compared to standard pancakes.
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for dietary needs. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version and almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
Ensure your baking powder is fresh, don’t overmix the batter, and allow it to rest for a few minutes before cooking. Also, cook on a medium heat to allow them to rise properly.
Absolutely! You can mix in items like blueberries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts to add texture and flavor to your pancakes.
Keep the cooked pancakes in a warm oven (about 200°F) on a baking sheet or wire rack. This keeps them warm without making them soggy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, French Toast Pancakes are a delightful culinary hybrid that brings together the best elements of two breakfast classics. Their rich, custardy flavor combined with a fluffy, satisfying texture makes them a favorite for both special occasions and everyday meals. With versatility in toppings and adaptations for various dietary preferences, they cater to a wide audience.
Mastering the art of making and storing them ensures a consistently enjoyable experience. Whether served at a family breakfast, a friendly brunch, or as a special treat, French Toast Pancakes are a testament to the joy of creative cooking and the endless possibilities in the world of cuisine.
