Name: Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Milk; 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour; 2 Eggs; 1/8 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Vanilla; to taste Powdered Sugar; 1 1/2 cup Chopped Strawberries (Mixed with 3-4 Tbl. of sugar and allowed to sit for 10 min. or until juicy); to taste Whipped Cream; to taste Maple Syrup

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When I think of weekend mornings, the first thing that comes to mind is the delightful aroma of freshly baked Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes. Early on Saturday, I would wake up to the sound of sizzling batter and laughter filling the kitchen. My family would gather around, eagerly awaiting the fluffy, golden treats that would soon grace the table. There’s something magical about the transformation of simple ingredients into light, airy pancakes that seem to puff up almost like magic in the oven. Every bite takes me back to those cherished moments, where a simple breakfast became a joyous occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Blender, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

Why We Love This Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes

Perfectly Puffed

The beauty of the Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes lies in their airy texture. Unlike traditional pancakes that can sometimes turn out flat or dense, these little wonders puff up beautifully in the oven, creating a delightful contrast between a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside.

Versatile Toppings

One of the best parts about this recipe is the endless possibilities for toppings. Whether you prefer the sweetness of fresh strawberries or the indulgence of whipped cream, each serving can be customized to suit your taste. You can even experiment with different fruits, syrups, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch!

Easy to Make

This recipe is a breeze to whip up. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious breakfast ready in no time. It’s an excellent option for busy mornings or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Just blend your ingredients, pour them into a hot muffin tin, and watch them puff up!

Great for Sharing

These mini pancakes are perfect for gathering friends and family around the breakfast table. Each tiny pancake is a perfect bite-sized treat, making them ideal for sharing. They make an appearance at brunches, family gatherings, or any time you want to bring a smile to loved ones’ faces.

Light and Satisfying

If you’re looking for a lighter breakfast option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, these pancakes are the answer. They’re satisfying without being heavy, allowing you to enjoy your meal without feeling weighed down. It’s the perfect way to start the day!

Fun Cooking Activity

Cooking these Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes can be a fun activity for the whole family. Kids love watching the pancakes puff up in the oven, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen. From measuring out ingredients to choosing toppings, it’s a delightful way to bond over breakfast.

What’s In This Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes

The ingredients in Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes are simple yet harmonious. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect puff. The key players are the milk, eggs, and all-purpose flour, which come together to create a smooth batter that transforms into fluffy, golden pancakes when baked. Adding a touch of sweetness with vanilla enhances the overall flavor, while the salt balances the sweetness, ensuring each bite is perfectly delightful.

Milk: 3/4 cup of milk provides the necessary moisture for the batter, contributing to the pancakes’ light texture while also enhancing their flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour is the backbone of the recipe, giving structure to the pancakes as they bake.
Eggs: 2 eggs act as a binding agent, bringing everything together while helping the pancakes rise.
Salt: 1/8 teaspoon of salt adds depth to the flavor, ensuring the sweetness isn’t overpowering.
Vanilla: 1 teaspoon of vanilla introduces a warm, sweet aroma that makes the pancakes irresistible.
Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and a fancy presentation.
Chopped Strawberries: 1 1/2 cups of chopped strawberries mixed with sugar create a juicy topping that complements the pancakes perfectly.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes for a rich, creamy addition that enhances the overall experience.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup ties everything together with its rich sweetness.

Recipe Steps for Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes

Making Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes is a delightful experience that brings joy to both the cook and those who get to enjoy them. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of fluffy, tasty pancakes. Each step leads you closer to a delicious breakfast treat that everyone will love.

Start by placing your mini muffin tin in the oven as you preheat it to 400 degrees. This step is crucial because a hot tin is key to achieving that beautiful puff. You want it to be nice and hot when you pour in the batter.
While the oven is heating, gather your ingredients. In a blender, combine milk, all-purpose flour, eggs, salt, and vanilla. Blend until smooth. The batter should be thick but pourable, with no lumps remaining. This blending step is important for getting that light texture.
Once the tin is hot, carefully remove it from the oven. Spray it thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can use a non-stick spray or brush it with a bit of oil, ensuring every cup is well-coated.
Fill each muffin cup about 1/2 to 3/4 full with the batter. Be sure not to overfill; they need room to puff up! This is where the magic happens as they rise and create those fluffy edges.
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them through the oven door; the sight of them rising is so satisfying!
Once done, carefully remove the pancakes from the tin. A toothpick works well to gently lift them out without breaking. They should pop right out!
Serve your Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes warm. Top them with a dusting of powdered sugar, a generous helping of chopped strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle them with maple syrup for that sweet finish.
Enjoy each bite as the flavors blend beautifully. The strawberries add a fresh, fruity touch, and the whipped cream adds creaminess. It’s a breakfast to remember!

Things Worth Knowing

Use a hot tin: Preheating the muffin tin is vital for puffiness. Cold batter in a hot tin creates steam that helps them rise.
Don’t skip the blending: Blending the ingredients ensures a smooth batter. This smoothness contributes to the light texture of the pancakes.
Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the pancakes as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dryness, while underbaking will leave them soggy.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra flavor!

Ways to Customize

If you want to make your Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes extra special, there are plenty of ways to customize them to your liking. Here are some fun ideas to consider:

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their puffiness.
Freezing: You can freeze these pancakes! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months.
Pairing: Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a variety of syrups like chocolate or fruit syrup for different flavor profiles.
Mix-ins: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist. This adds texture and flavor that everyone will love.
Different flours: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free flour for a healthier option. It can alter the texture slightly but still tastes fantastic.
Flavor variations: Incorporate lemon zest or almond extract into the batter for a unique flavor. These small adjustments can make a big difference!

Side Dish Ideas for Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes

Serving Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes is an opportunity to get creative and make the meal feel special. Here are some delightful side dish ideas and occasions to enjoy these tasty treats:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed fruits like berries, melon, and bananas adds a nutritious touch to your meal.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a delicious and healthy accompaniment.
Scrambled Eggs: Pairing these pancakes with fluffy scrambled eggs adds protein and makes the meal more filling.
Special Occasions: Perfect for brunches, birthdays, or special holiday breakfasts where you want to impress your guests.
Seasonal Pairings: In spring, serve with fresh berries; in winter, consider spiced apples or warm compote.
Drinks: Complement with fresh juices, coffee, or even a warm chai latte for a comforting beverage option.

FAQ

Unlike traditional pancakes that are typically cooked on a stovetop, Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes are baked in the oven. This method allows them to puff up beautifully, creating a light and airy texture that you won’t find in regular pancakes. The result is a delightful combination of crispy edges and a fluffy center, making them a unique breakfast treat that’s both impressive and easy to make!

Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to give it a good stir if it sits for a while. Alternatively, you can bake the pancakes and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their puffiness.

The beauty of Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes is their versatility when it comes to toppings. You can go traditional with maple syrup and powdered sugar, or get creative with whipped cream and fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries. For a more indulgent option, try adding chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. The options are endless, so feel free to mix and match!

Absolutely! You can swap out all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Additionally, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. You can also adjust the sweetness by reducing the amount of sugar or using alternative sweeteners. This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to create a version that suits your dietary needs.

You’ll know your Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes are done baking when they are puffed up and lightly golden brown on top. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as they can quickly go from perfectly puffed to overbaked. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when they’re done. Trust your instincts, and enjoy the delicious results!

Conclusion

These Mini Puffed Oven Pancakes are a delightful twist on a breakfast classic, offering a light and airy experience that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making them for your next breakfast or brunch gathering. They’re easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends with their fluffy texture and delicious taste. Enjoy every bite and make new memories around the table!