Name: Pancake Poppers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ¾ cup buttermilk (or regular milk + 1 tsp vinegar); 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp melted butter; ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or blueberries; Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or honey

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a breakfast treat that’s both fun and absolutely delicious, then Pancake Poppers are about to become your new favorite snack. These delightful little bites pack all the fluffy goodness of classic pancakes but in a handy, mini muffin form that’s perfect for dipping, sharing, or grabbing on the go. They’re soft on the inside with just enough golden crisp on the outside, and you can customize them with chocolate chips, juicy blueberries, or enjoy them plain with maple syrup. Trust me, once you make these Pancake Poppers, your mornings will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on these Pancake Poppers requires just a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a key part in delivering that perfect taste and texture. From the tender crumb provided by flour to the tangy lightness from buttermilk, every element works together to create a bite-sized breakfast delight.

All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and softness to the poppers.
Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors.
Baking powder: Helps the poppers rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda: Reacts with buttermilk for extra lightness and airiness.
Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor.
Buttermilk: Brings tang and moisture while activating the leavening agents.
Egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
Vanilla extract: Provides a gentle aromatic sweetness.
Melted butter: Adds moistness and a slightly crisp edge when baked.
Mini chocolate chips or blueberries (optional): For bursts of chocolatey or fruity goodness inside every popper.
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or honey: Perfect finishing touches for serving.

How to Make Pancake Poppers

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, get your oven warmed up to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your mini muffin tin with melted butter or non-stick spray to prevent any sticking, ensuring your Pancake Poppers pop out perfectly every time.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another, combine the wet ingredients: buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter, beating until everything is smooth. Slowly pour the wet into the dry and stir gently until just combined—some lumps are totally okay and help keep the poppers tender.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Use a spoon or a small scoop to fill each mini muffin cup about three-quarters full. If you’re adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or blueberries, sprinkle them into each cup now so they’re nestled right into every bite.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tin in the oven and bake the Pancake Poppers for 12 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye out for a golden top and that trusty toothpick test—when it comes out clean, your poppers are ready. Let them cool briefly before removing so they firm up nicely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

This is the best part! Dust your poppers with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, or dip in honey. Serve warm and watch everyone fall in love with these bite-sized pancakes that are as fun as they are tasty.

How to Serve Pancake Poppers

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can make your Pancake Poppers shine even brighter. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch, while a drizzle of maple syrup or honey brings that perfect, natural sweetness that complements the fluffy bites effortlessly.

Side Dishes

Pair these poppers with fresh seasonal fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a small bowl of yogurt for dipping to turn your breakfast or brunch into a well-rounded, colorful feast. They also team wonderfully with classic breakfast items like crispy bacon or scrambled eggs.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Arrange Pancake Poppers on a beautiful wooden board alongside mini cups of syrup, jam, or nut butter for dipping. For a party, try skewering them on toothpicks with fresh berries for a playful finger food. You can even serve them as a dessert, drizzling melted chocolate or caramel and sprinkling with nuts, coconut, or even cinnamon sugar for a cozy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pancake Poppers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture and freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the poppers on a baking sheet first so they don’t stick together, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready for whenever a breakfast craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated poppers in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes for a crispier edge. Frozen ones take about 45 seconds in the microwave or 5 to 7 minutes in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through and satisfying.

FAQs

Can I make these pancake poppers gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for the all-purpose flour, and you’ll have equally fluffy and delicious poppers.

Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini one?

You can, but expect the baking time to increase to about 18 to 20 minutes. The result will be more like pancake muffins—still tasty, just larger and less popper-sized.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! The batter can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply give it a gentle stir before filling the muffin tin.

How do I make these dairy-free?

Swap the buttermilk for almond, oat, or another plant-based milk, and use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter.

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg, which is made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until gel-like before adding to the batter.

Final Thoughts

Pancake Poppers are a little bundle of joy perfect for turning ordinary mornings into celebrations. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at any table. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast, packing a snack for the kids, or serving up something special for guests, give these poppers a try—you’ll wonder how you ever started the day without them!

Pancake Poppers Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 mini pancake poppers 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Pancake Poppers are delightful mini pancake bites that are light, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a fun snack. Made with simple ingredients like flour, buttermilk, and eggs, these bite-sized treats bake up golden brown and can be enhanced with chocolate chips or blueberries. Serve them with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or honey for a sweet finish. Ideal for kids and adults alike, they’re also easy to prepare, freeze, and customize with savory or sweet additions.

Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray or melted butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the poppers.
Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix – some lumps are okay for tender results.
Fill the Muffin Tin: Using a spoon or small scoop, fill each mini muffin cup about ¾ full. If desired, add mini chocolate chips or blueberries on top of the batter in each cup before baking.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the poppers to cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring them out.
Serve and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, or dip in honey for extra sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy these delicious little bites!

Notes

Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the poppers light and fluffy; some lumps are fine.
Grease the muffin tin thoroughly to prevent sticking – melted butter works best for a crispier edge.
Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before baking to allow the baking soda and buttermilk to react for better rise.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
For gluten-free poppers, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Customize with mix-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or savory ingredients such as cheese and herbs.
Reheat gently in the microwave or toaster oven for best texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American