Indulge in the rich, tasty goodness of hazelnut chocolate pancakes! These delightful homemade treats will brighten any morning or brunch. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, ensuring you get fluffy pancakes every time. Whether you have dietary needs or want to mix it up, I’ve got tips and variations that will satisfy your cravings. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The rich combination of chocolate and hazelnuts makes these pancakes a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or a last-minute brunch with friends.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruits or whipped cream, to make it uniquely yours.
- Healthier Indulgence: With the option to use non-dairy milk and coconut oil, these pancakes can be made to fit various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
To make these hazelnut chocolate pancakes, gather these key ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
These ingredients blend together to create a rich, chocolatey batter with a delightful crunch from the hazelnuts.
Optional Ingredients for Serving
You can enhance the pancakes with these toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Extra chopped hazelnuts
- More chocolate chips
These toppings add flavor and make the dish look even more inviting.
Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions
If you have specific dietary needs, here are some easy swaps:
- Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Substitute with almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free options.
- Choose a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of the egg for a vegan option.
These substitutions allow everyone to enjoy these delicious pancakes without worry.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Dry Ingredients
To start, grab a medium bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. You will need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Make sure you blend them well. This helps mix the flavors evenly. Set this bowl aside while we prepare the wet ingredients.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Now, take another bowl. Here, you'll mix the wet ingredients. Add in:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk these together until smooth. This should take a minute. Once done, pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
Cooking Pancakes
Gently fold the wet and dry mixes together. It’s fine if some lumps remain. Next, add:
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Carefully fold these in until they are spread out. Now, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. If you like, add a little butter or oil to grease it.
Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Then, flip them and cook for 1-2 more minutes. They should turn golden brown.
Remove the pancakes and keep them warm as you finish the batter. Serve the pancakes hot, with optional powdered sugar or syrup, plus extra hazelnuts and chocolate chips if you want. Enjoy your delicious hazelnut chocolate pancakes!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Fluffy Pancakes
To make your pancakes fluffy, do not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined. A few lumps are okay. This keeps the air in, making them light. Also, use fresh baking powder. Old baking powder can make pancakes dense.
Perfecting Cooking Temperatures
Cook your pancakes on a medium heat. If it's too high, they burn. If too low, they won’t cook through. A non-stick skillet helps prevent sticking. Always preheat your skillet. You can test it by splashing a little water on it. If the water dances, your skillet is ready.
Suggestions for Serving
Serve your pancakes warm for the best taste. Top with powdered sugar for sweetness. You can add syrup, chopped hazelnuts, or extra chocolate chips. For a twist, try fresh fruit like bananas or strawberries. Enjoy them right away for a delightful breakfast!
Pro Tips
- Check Your Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal fluffiness in your pancakes.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes. Mix just until combined for light and airy results.
- Use a Hot Skillet: Preheat your skillet properly to achieve that perfect golden-brown color and avoid sticking.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding sliced bananas, whipped cream, or a drizzle of nut butter for extra flavor and texture.
Variations
Nut-Free Versions
You can make these pancakes nut-free. Simply skip the hazelnuts. You can replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both add crunch and flavor without nuts. If you want a creamy texture, try using coconut yogurt as a topping.
Flavor Additions
Adding spices or fruits can change the flavor. Cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth. You can sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter. For fruit, try mashed bananas or blueberries. Fold them in gently before cooking. Both options make pancakes more fun and tasty.
Different Chocolate Options
You can use various types of chocolate. Dark chocolate gives a rich taste. Use semi-sweet for a balanced sweetness. If you want to try something new, use white chocolate chips. They add a sweet twist and can pair well with the hazelnuts.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Pancakes
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container. Let them cool first. Place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake. This keeps them from sticking together. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want them fresh longer, freezing is a better option.
Reheating Tips
To reheat pancakes, use a microwave or skillet. For the microwave, place pancakes on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 30 seconds. For a skillet, warm up on low heat for a few minutes. Add a small bit of butter if you like. This will help them stay moist and tasty.
Freezing Procedures
To freeze pancakes, stack them with parchment paper between each one. Then, wrap the stack in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pancakes in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as you can. You can freeze them for up to two months. When you want to eat them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
FAQs
Can I make these pancakes vegan?
Yes, you can make these pancakes vegan. Use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Replace the egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. You can also use melted coconut oil instead of butter.
What can I use instead of hazelnuts?
If you cannot use hazelnuts, try walnuts or almonds. Both nuts add a nice crunch. You can also skip nuts altogether for a nut-free version. If you want a different flavor, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They work well in these pancakes.
How do I know when my pancakes are done cooking?
Look for bubbles on the surface of the pancakes. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. When the edges look set and the bottom is golden brown, it's time to flip. Cook the second side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. You can also use a toothpick to check if they are cooked inside. If it comes out clean, they are done!
In this blog post, we covered the right ingredients and steps for making perfect pancakes. We shared tips for fluffiness, cooking, and serving. You learned about variations, storage, and even how to cater to dietary needs.
Pancakes are not just breakfast; they can be fun and creative. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy delicious pancakes every time. Try these ideas and make pancake time special!
