German Chocolate Pancakes

Indulging in breakfast has never been so delightful! Imagine soft, fluffy pancakes infused with the rich flavors of German chocolate cake—sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, and silky chocolate all coming together in every bite. These German Chocolate Pancakes are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for a special weekend brunch or a cozy family breakfast, these pancakes will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into how you can create this deliciousness in your own kitchen!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The beauty of German Chocolate Pancakes lies in their ability to satisfy a variety of cravings. They offer the rich, decadent taste of chocolate cake while maintaining the lightness you expect from pancakes. The combination of chocolate, toasted pecans, and coconut not only creates a delightful texture but also a beautiful presentation. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or for a cozy morning at home, these pancakes are sure to impress everyone at the table!

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up these delicious German Chocolate Pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Recommended Tools

Before we get started, gather these kitchen tools to make your pancake-making process smooth and efficient:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To ensure a smooth batter.
• Griddle or Non-Stick Skillet: For perfectly cooked pancakes.
• Spatula: To flip those pancakes with ease.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in your ingredients.
• Serving Plates: To present your delicious creation.

German Chocolate Pancakes: How It’s Done

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the German Chocolate Pancakes! Follow these simple steps for a delightful breakfast experience.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This will ensure that your pancakes are fluffy and evenly flavored.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the milk, lightly beaten eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is blended and smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Then, stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for that extra chocolatey goodness.

Step 4: Heat the Griddle

Preheat your griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter to prevent the pancakes from sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the heated griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are cooked through. Keep them warm in a low oven while you repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, brown sugar, and pieces of butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolks, then return to the heat and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the toasted pecans and shredded coconut, and remove from heat.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the warm pancakes stacked high, drizzled generously with the coconut-pecan topping. You can also add a sprinkle of chocolate chips or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. Enjoy your delicious German Chocolate Pancakes with family and friends!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

If you’re looking to make some healthier adjustments to the German Chocolate Pancakes, consider these options:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut back on sugar by using less than the recipe calls for or opting for a natural sweetener.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk as a dairy alternative.
• Egg Substitute: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan option.

Behind the Recipe

German Chocolate Pancakes are inspired by the classic German chocolate cake, which is known for its rich chocolate flavor and unique coconut-pecan frosting. The cake originated in the United States and is named after an Englishman, Samuel German, who developed a dark-baking chocolate. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds—pancakes and cake—creating a breakfast that is both nostalgic and innovative.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your German Chocolate Pancakes fresh, consider the following storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Reheat pancakes in the microwave or toaster oven until warmed through.

German Chocolate Pancakes FAQs

Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it the next morning, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or omit them altogether. The pancakes will still be delicious!

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking the rest?

Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C) and place a baking sheet inside. As you cook each pancake, transfer them to the baking sheet to keep them warm until you are ready to serve.

More from the Kitchen

If you enjoyed these German Chocolate Pancakes, you might also love these delightful recipes:

• Chocolate Fudge Cookie Sandwiches
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

Save & Share

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to save it and share it with your friends and family! Breakfast is always better when it’s enjoyed together, and these German Chocolate Pancakes are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Get ready to savor every bite and make wonderful memories around the breakfast table. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!