1. Prepare the Pancake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter.
2. Cook the Pancakes
- Preheat Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with a little butter or cooking spray.
- Pour Batter: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pour the batter onto the hot skillet, spreading it slightly to form a round pancake.
- Cook: Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the second side is cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as needed.
3. Serve
- Plate the Pancakes: Stack the pancakes on serving plates.
- Add Toppings: Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup or maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar as desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious chocolate pancakes!
Tips for Success
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Don’t Overmix: To keep the pancakes fluffy, mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense pancakes.
- Keep Warm: Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until all the pancakes are ready to serve.
Conclusion
Decadent Chocolate Pancakes are a surefire way to make any breakfast or brunch feel extra special. With their rich chocolate flavor and fluffy texture, they are perfect for chocolate lovers and anyone looking to indulge in a sweet morning treat. Top them with your favorite fruits, syrups, and creams for a deliciously satisfying meal. Enjoy!