Fluffy Double Chocolate Pancakes: Your Ultimate Dessert-for-Breakfast Recipe

Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend morning, the irresistible aroma of rich chocolate wafting from the kitchen. Now, picture a stack of incredibly fluffy, deep chocolate pancakes, studded with molten chocolate chips, just waiting to be drizzled with creamy maple whipped cream and adorned with vibrant fresh berries. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Well, this isn’t just a dream; it’s a delicious reality with our incredibly easy and utterly indulgent recipe for Double Chocolate Pancakes!

Forget the hurried weekday breakfasts, where you grab a quick bite and find yourself famished long before lunchtime. Weekends are a sacred time for slowing down, savoring moments, and treating yourself to something truly special. And what could be more special than enjoying a plate of pancakes that taste like pure dessert? These aren’t just any chocolate pancakes; they are chocolate chocolate chip pancakes, meticulously crafted with the intense flavor of rich cocoa powder and an abundance of melty chocolate chips in every single glorious bite. This recipe is designed to transform your morning into an unforgettable culinary experience.

As much as I adore a savory morning meal, like my cheesy hash brown bowls, I must confess, I am not typically a morning person during the work week. That’s why, when the weekend finally arrives, I embrace the opportunity to create something truly comforting and delicious. While my small batch chocolate chip pancakes are a beloved classic, there are days when you crave an extra touch of sweetness and decadence to elevate your morning routine. That’s precisely where a generous stack of these incredible Chocolate Pancakes comes into play!

This recipe delivers fluffy, double chocolate pancakes, perfectly portioned for two, making them ideal for sharing (or not!). Each bite offers a harmonious blend of rich cocoa and gooey melted chocolate chips, truly making you feel like you’re indulging in dessert for breakfast. And let’s be honest – you absolutely are, and there’s nothing wrong with that! While they’re a fantastic choice for any morning you wish to make extraordinary, they hold a special charm for festive occasions like Christmas morning or a romantic Valentine’s Day breakfast, adding an extra layer of joy and celebration.

The secret to their profound chocolate flavor lies in using two distinct forms of chocolate: high-quality natural cocoa powder for the base and delicious chocolate chips for those delightful melty pockets. This ensures a deep, complex chocolate experience that isn’t overly sweet but perfectly balanced. To complete this breakfast masterpiece, I chose to serve these pancakes with a generous dollop of my homemade maple whipped cream, offering a light and creamy contrast to the rich chocolate, along with a scattering of fresh strawberries for a touch of vibrant fruitiness. However, if your heart desires an even more intense chocolate experience, feel free to dive all-in with chocolate whipped cream and a warm drizzle of homemade hot fudge sauce. This recipe yields six perfectly sized chocolate chocolate chip pancakes, ideal for a breakfast for two, but can effortlessly be doubled if you’re feeding a larger crowd or simply want more for later!

Essential Ingredients for Your Fluffy Chocolate Pancakes

Creating these delightful small-batch chocolate pancakes from scratch is incredibly satisfying and surprisingly straightforward. You won’t need any pre-made mixes or Bisquick here! All it takes are a few common pantry staples, transformed into something truly spectacular. Here’s a detailed look at each ingredient and its vital role in achieving that perfect fluffy texture and rich, decadent chocolate flavor:

• All-purpose flour: This is the structural backbone of your pancakes. It provides the necessary body and thickness to the batter, ensuring your pancakes hold their shape beautifully and have a tender, not dense, consistency.
• Cocoa powder: The undeniable star for that deep, rich chocolate taste. We highly recommend using a good quality unsweetened natural cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed, as it reacts differently with baking powder) to achieve the best color and most authentic chocolate flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Just enough sugar is included to perfectly balance the slight bitterness of the cocoa powder. It enhances the overall chocolate experience without making the pancakes overly sweet, and also contributes to their tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Your secret weapon for achieving truly fluffy, sky-high pancakes. As a leavening agent, it creates countless tiny air bubbles within the batter, causing the pancakes to rise beautifully as they cook. Don’t be surprised by the amount; it’s essential for that signature fluffiness. Trust the recipe!
• Espresso powder: This is an optional but highly recommended ingredient. A small touch of espresso powder dramatically deepens and intensifies the chocolate flavor without imparting any noticeable coffee taste. It truly makes the chocolate notes sing!
• Table salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the batter. It prevents the pancakes from tasting bland and subtly highlights the sweetness and richness of the chocolate.
• Large egg (room temperature): Using one large egg at room temperature is key. A room temperature egg incorporates more easily into the batter, leading to a smoother consistency. More importantly, it helps the pancakes rise more effectively, contributing to their desired fluffiness.
• Whole milk (room temperature): Whole milk is preferred for its higher fat content, which guarantees your pancakes will be wonderfully moist and tender. Like the egg, using room temperature milk also helps create a smoother batter and aids in the overall leavening process.
• Vegetable oil or melted butter: A neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola, is ideal as it won’t introduce any unwanted savory flavors. Alternatively, melted unsalted butter can be used for a richer, more buttery taste. Both add essential moisture and contribute to the pancakes’ delicate texture.
• Vanilla extract: Similar to espresso powder, vanilla extract is an excellent flavor enhancer for chocolate. It adds a warm, aromatic depth that beautifully complements the cocoa and rounds out the overall flavor profile.
• Semisweet chocolate chips: You simply can’t have chocolate chocolate chip pancakes without them! These delightful chips melt into luscious pockets throughout the batter, providing bursts of intense chocolate flavor and a wonderful textural contrast. Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your personal preference.

Mastering the Art: How to Make Fluffy Chocolate Pancakes from Scratch

Creating these rich and fluffy chocolate chocolate chip pancakes without a mix is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly cooked, irresistible results every single time:

1. Whisk Your Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, begin by sifting together the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Sifting is an important step as it breaks up any lumps in the cocoa and ensures a light, airy base for your batter. Once sifted, add the granulated sugar, baking powder, espresso powder (if you’re using it to boost the chocolate flavor), and salt. Whisk all these dry ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and evenly distributed. This ensures consistent rising and flavor throughout your pancakes.
2. Prepare Your Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl or a large liquid measuring cup (which makes pouring easier), whisk together the room temperature egg, whole milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous, making sure the egg is fully incorporated and the oil/butter is well emulsified with the milk.
3. Gently Combine Batter: Create a small well in the center of your dry ingredients. Gradually pour the wet mixture into this well. Using a whisk or spatula, gently combine them. The crucial step here is to mix just until everything is moistened. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly normal, and actually desirable – overmixing is the enemy of fluffy pancakes! Overworking the flour develops gluten, which can lead to tough, chewy pancakes instead of light, tender ones. Stop as soon as there are no visible pockets of dry flour.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Rest: Gently fold your semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. Again, be careful not to overmix. Once the chips are incorporated, allow the batter to rest undisturbed for at least 5 minutes. This resting period is vital for a few reasons: it allows the gluten to relax (preventing tough pancakes), and it gives the flour time to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a slightly thicker, more cohesive batter that cooks more evenly. If after resting, the batter seems too thick, you can whisk in an additional tablespoon or two of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Heat Your Skillet: While the batter rests, place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Proper pan temperature is absolutely critical for fluffy pancakes. To test if your pan is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface; they should sizzle immediately and evaporate quickly. If your skillet is not non-stick, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small pat of butter. If using butter, it should melt and just begin to brown slightly, indicating it’s ready for the batter.
6. Cook Your Pancakes: Once your skillet is perfectly heated, pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface. If necessary, gently spread the batter with the back of the spoon to ensure each pancake is no more than 1/4 inch thick. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on the first side, or until you notice small bubbles forming across the surface and the edges appear set and slightly dry. This indicates it’s time to flip!
7. Flip and Finish Cooking: Using a thin, wide spatula, carefully flip each pancake. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The pancake should feel springy to the touch when gently pressed, and the internal temperature should be consistent. Repeat this process with the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as necessary between batches to prevent the pan from getting too hot and burning the pancakes. Place cooked pancakes on a wire rack to prevent them from getting soggy as you finish the rest.

Storage and Reheating Your Delicious Leftovers

Should you be fortunate enough to have any leftover chocolate pancakes – a rare but delightful occurrence! – storing them properly ensures they remain delicious for later enjoyment. Place them in a freezer-safe plastic bag, making sure to put a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent them from sticking together. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or can be frozen for an extended period of up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them into a toaster, microwave them gently, or warm them in a dry skillet until they are heated through. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh off the griddle!

Elevate Your Experience: What to Serve With Chocolate Pancakes

These double chocolate pancakes are truly magnificent on their own, but pairing them with complementary toppings and savory sides can transform them into an even more unforgettable meal. While our initial suggestion of creamy maple whipped cream offers a unique and delightful twist, the incredible versatility of chocolate means your options for embellishment are virtually limitless. Here are some inspiring ideas to create your ultimate chocolate pancake feast:

• Classic Whipped Cream & Syrups: For a timeless and universally loved approach, a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream is always a winner. You can also experiment with other flavored whipped creams like delicate honey whipped cream or rich cream cheese whipped cream for an added tang and creamy texture. A traditional drizzle of pure maple syrup is, of course, a perfect and comforting accompaniment, truly enhancing the classic breakfast vibe.
• Fruity Pairings: Chocolate and fresh fruit are a match made in heaven. Bright, tart berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a fantastic contrast to the rich chocolate, cutting through its sweetness beautifully. Consider adding a vibrant homemade strawberry sauce or a fluffy strawberry whipped cream for an extra burst of fruity goodness. Sliced bananas also complement chocolate wonderfully, especially when sprinkled with a touch of warming cinnamon.
• Nutty Delights: If you’re a devoted fan of the iconic chocolate and peanut butter combination, a swirl of creamy peanut butter whipped cream or a warm drizzle of homemade peanut butter sauce would be absolutely divine. For added texture and earthy flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds over your pancakes.
• Extra Chocolate Indulgence: For the true chocoholic, the answer is always more chocolate! Beyond the delightful hot fudge sauce, consider a light dusting of cocoa powder, elegant chocolate shavings, or even a handful of mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top for an extra chocolatey crunch.
• Ice Cream: To truly transform your breakfast into an ultimate dessert experience, add a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream or even a rich chocolate ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a luxurious, creamy sauce that takes these pancakes to an entirely new level of decadence.
• Savory Counterparts: To perfectly balance the sweetness of your chocolate pancakes, consider serving them alongside some classic savory breakfast staples. Crispy strips of bacon, juicy breakfast sausage links, or even a simple scrambled egg can provide a delightful counterpoint, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Homemade Pancake Perfection: Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Achieving that picture-perfect stack of fluffy, golden-brown pancakes is a delightful culinary art, but it also involves a bit of kitchen science! Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t absolutely flawless. Here are some invaluable tips to help you troubleshoot common pancake problems and ensure your chocolate pancakes turn out perfectly every time:

• If your pancakes are too doughy and/or raw in the middle: This is a very common issue, often indicating that your pancakes are too thick, or your cooking heat is too high. High heat can cook the outside too quickly while leaving the inside raw. Ensure you pour only about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake, gently spreading it in the skillet so it’s no more than 1/4 inch thick. Also, make sure your stove’s heat is set to medium, allowing the pancakes to cook through evenly without burning the exterior. You can always slightly reduce the heat if they seem to be browning too fast.
• If your pancakes are thin and didn’t rise: This typically points to one of two potential issues: your skillet wasn’t hot enough, or your baking powder is no longer active. Baking powder requires heat to react and create those essential lifting bubbles. If your pan is too cold, the chemical reaction won’t occur properly, resulting in flat, dense pancakes. Always preheat your pan thoroughly (use the water drop test as mentioned in the instructions). Additionally, check the expiration date on your baking powder; it loses its potency over time.
• If your pancakes aren’t fluffy, but chewy: This problem is almost always a direct result of overmixing your batter. When you stir flour excessively, you develop the gluten strands, which are responsible for the chewy texture found in breads. For light and fluffy pancakes, you want to minimize gluten development. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined – a few lumps are perfectly fine and even desirable! As long as there are no dry pockets of flour left, resist the urge to keep stirring. Gentle folding of the chocolate chips is also crucial.
• If your pancakes are sticking to the pan: Even with a non-stick pan, pancakes can sometimes stick. Ensure your pan is adequately heated before adding any batter. If your non-stick coating is old or worn, or if you’re using a cast iron skillet, a thin, even layer of oil or butter is crucial. Don’t add too much, or the pancakes will become greasy; just enough to coat the cooking surface.
• If your pancakes are burning quickly on the outside: Your cooking heat is too high! While a hot pan is important for the initial rise and browning, scorching is definitely not desired. Reduce your stove’s heat setting to medium or even medium-low if your pancakes are browning too fast on the outside before they are cooked through in the center. Patience is truly a virtue when cooking perfect pancakes.
• If your pancakes are cooking unevenly: This can be due to an uneven heat distribution on your stove burner or within your pan itself. Try rotating the pan occasionally, or ensure that your batter is spread as evenly as possible. Also, make sure you’re not overcrowding the pan; cooking too many pancakes at once can drastically drop the pan’s temperature and lead to inconsistent results.

By keeping these valuable tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of homemade chocolate pancakes, consistently creating perfect, fluffy stacks that will impress everyone at your breakfast table!

More Delicious Breakfast Recipes to Explore

Enjoyed indulging in these decadent chocolate pancakes? If you’re looking to expand your breakfast repertoire with more delightful and easy-to-make recipes, we’ve got you covered. From fruity twists to savory sensations and other sweet treats, these recipes are perfect for any morning:

• Coconut Milk Pancakes: A wonderfully light and dairy-free option that’s equally flavorful, perfect for those with dietary restrictions or simply craving a tropical twist to their morning.
• Apple Pancakes: Savor the comforting, cozy flavors of autumn with tender apple pieces cooked right into your pancakes, often paired wonderfully with a homemade apple cider syrup for an extra touch of seasonal delight.
• Waffles For Two: Crispy on the outside, incredibly fluffy on the inside, these waffles are another fantastic small-batch option that makes any morning feel special and indulgent.
• Chocolate Waffles: If you’re a fan of our chocolate pancakes, you’ll absolutely adore their equally rich and decadent waffle cousin – perfect for holding puddles of syrup or a scoop of ice cream.
• French Toast For Two: A classic comfort food, this recipe transforms simple bread into a sweet, custardy delight, ideal for a leisurely brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast.
• Biscuits and Gravy For Two: For those craving a hearty, savory, and utterly satisfying start to their day, this beloved Southern classic offers warmth and comfort in every single bite.

Chocolate Pancakes

Yield:
6 pancakes

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
40 minutes

Turn breakfast into an indulgent treat with these incredibly fluffy Double Chocolate Pancakes! Made from scratch with rich cocoa powder and an abundance of melty chocolate chips, they’re the perfect “dessert for breakfast.” Serve them with creamy maple whipped cream and fresh fruit for an unforgettable morning.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (natural unsweetened recommended)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, for deeper chocolate flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon table salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or milk/dark chocolate)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour and cocoa powder. Then, stir in the sugar, baking powder, espresso powder (if using), and salt until well combined.
2. In a large measuring cup or separate bowl, whisk together the room temperature egg, milk, oil/melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk until everything is just moistened. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are perfectly fine, but ensure there are no visible pockets of dry flour. Overmixing leads to tough pancakes.
4. Gently stir in the chocolate chips. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the gluten to relax and the flour to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in more tender, fluffy pancakes. If the batter becomes too thick after resting, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of additional milk to loosen it.
5. Heat a dry small non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. To test if the pan is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water – they should sizzle and evaporate quickly. If your skillet is not non-stick, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small pat of butter.
6. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot skillet, ensuring the batter spreads to be no more than 1/4 inch thick.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes on the first side, until bubbles form on top and the edges appear set. Using a thin spatula, carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Remove the cooked pancake and place it on a wire rack to cool slightly while you repeat with the remaining batter. Adjust the heat as needed between batches to maintain an even cooking temperature and prevent burning.

   Storage: Store any leftover chocolate pancakes in a freezer-safe plastic bag with a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster, microwave, or skillet.

Notes

• Serve your decadent chocolate pancakes with a variety of toppings! Recommended options include Maple Whipped Cream, Peanut Butter Whipped Cream (for a chocolate peanut butter dream!), Chocolate Whipped Cream (double the chocolate, double the fun!), Strawberry Whipped Cream, Strawberry Sauce, fresh berries, or classic Homemade Whipped Cream with a drizzle of maple syrup.

• Craving more delicious breakfast ideas? Don’t miss these other popular pancake and breakfast recipes: Spiced Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Coconut Milk Pancakes, and Apple Pancakes.

Recommended Products

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• Nonstick Skillet

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