Who says we have to choose between French toast and pancakes? With this French Toast Pancakes recipe, we get the best of both worlds in one delicious bite. It’s the ultimate breakfast hybrid, combining the fluffy, golden goodness of pancakes with the rich, cinnamon-kissed flavor of French toast.
French Toast Pancakes Recipe
Creating French Toast Pancakes combines the irresistible flavors of classic French toast with the fluffy goodness of pancakes. This hybrid breakfast is easier than you think and is sure to elevate any morning. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this delicious fusion dish.
Ingredients
Here is what you’ll need to make these French Toast Pancakes:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the French Toast Batter:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- Butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Steps to Prepare
- Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing—some lumps are okay.
- Prepare the French Toast Batter
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar (if using). Ensure the mixture is evenly combined for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Cook the Pancakes
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a small amount of butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another minute or until golden. Transfer to a plate.
- Dip Pancakes in French Toast Batter
Once the pancakes are cooked, dip each one individually into the prepared French Toast Batter, ensuring both sides are coated evenly. Do not soak them too long to avoid sogginess.
- Final Cooking
Return the coated pancakes to the heated skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the pancakes are golden brown, slightly crispy, and infused with the cinnamon richness. Repeat for all pancakes, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
- Serve and Garnish
Plate the warm French Toast Pancakes and top them with a drizzle of maple syrup. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch. Add fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for extra flavor.
Cooking Time Breakdown:
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prepare Pancake Batter | 5 minutes |
| Prepare French Toast Batter | 3 minutes |
| Cook Pancakes | 10 minutes |
| Dip & Final Cooking | 8–10 minutes |
| Total Time | 26–28 minutes |
Each bite captures the soft and fluffy texture of pancakes paired with the rich, spiced warmth of French toast, making this dish a standout.
Ingredients
To create these French Toast Pancakes, we need two essential components: the pancake batter and the French toast coating. Prepare these ingredients first for a seamless cooking experience. We’ve also included optional toppings to elevate this dish further.
For The Pancakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For The French Toast Coating
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Warm maple syrup
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Freshly sliced berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- A dollop of whipped cream
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate syrup for added indulgence
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect French Toast Pancakes requires the right tools. Using the correct equipment helps ensure we achieve the ideal balance of fluffy pancake texture and the rich flavor of French toast. Here’s a comprehensive list of what we’ll need:
Essential Tools:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two – one for the pancake batter and one for the French toast coating.
- Whisk: For blending the wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula: A heat-resistant one for flipping pancakes with ease.
- Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect consistency.
- Ladle or Scoop: Ideal for pouring consistent pancake portions onto the skillet.
- Tongs or Forks: Handy for dipping pancakes into the French toast coating without breaking.
Optional Tools:
- Sifter: To aerate flour and remove lumps for a smoother batter.
- Cooking Thermometer: Useful to monitor skillet heat and ensure pancakes cook evenly.
- Pastry Brush: Helpful for greasing the skillet lightly and evenly.
Quick Tool Overview Table:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Holds pancake batter and French toast mixture. |
| Whisk | Blends ingredients efficiently. |
| Spatula | Flips pancakes without tearing. |
| Skillet/Griddle | Ensures even cooking of pancakes. |
| Measuring Tools | Provides precise ingredient proportions. |
By using these tools, we can create evenly cooked, beautifully textured French Toast Pancakes with minimal effort. Proper equipment is as essential as quality ingredients for transforming this dish into a breakfast masterpiece.
Directions
Let’s bring this fusion of flavors to life step by step. Follow these directions carefully to create the most decadent French Toast Pancakes for a breakfast treat to remember.
Prep The Pancake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups buttermilk, 2 eggs, 3 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. The batter should be smooth but still slightly thick—avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes fluffy!
Cook The Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Spread it slightly to form a uniform circle.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set.
- Flip the pancake carefully with a spatula and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and repeat until all the batter is used. Stack them to keep warm.
Prepare The French Toast Coating
- In a shallow dish, whisk together 3 large eggs, ⅔ cup milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the cinnamon is evenly dispersed.
- Use a fork or whisk to ensure no clumps remain in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step ensures the coating is evenly spiced for that signature French toast flavor.
Coat And Cook The Pancakes
- Take one cooked pancake and dip it into the French toast batter. Coat both sides thoroughly but avoid oversaturating to prevent sogginess.
- Place the coated pancake onto a hot skillet over medium heat greased with a touch of butter.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until the pancake turns golden brown with crisp edges.
- Repeat the process for each pancake, layering them into a stunning stack.
Pro Tip: If desired, keep the pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven as you finish cooking.
Once done, serve these French Toast Pancakes immediately with your choice of toppings such as warm maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate breakfast indulgence.
Assembly And Serving
Once our French Toast Pancakes are prepared, it’s time to assemble and serve this flavor-packed breakfast. Combining toppings and presentation can elevate this dish into an unforgettable meal. Let’s bring it all together seamlessly.
Add Toppings
The right toppings will enhance the taste and visual appeal of our pancakes. Here’s a list of options to mix and match for a customized breakfast experience:
- Maple Syrup: Warm it slightly for a rich, silky drizzle.
- Powdered Sugar: Dust the pancakes lightly for a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Use strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop adds creamy elegance.
- Chocolate Syrup: Perfect for a more indulgent flavor.
- Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
- Sliced Bananas: A complementary fruit option with a creamy texture.
Here’s a quick toppings guide for reference:
| Topping | Flavor Profile | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Maple Syrup | Sweet & Smooth | Enhances pancake flavor |
| Powdered Sugar | Light Sweetness | Adds subtle sweetness & style |
| Fresh Berries | Tangy & Refreshing | Balances sweetness |
| Whipped Cream | Light & Creamy | Luxurious finish |
| Chocolate Syrup | Decadent & Rich | For a dessert-like twist |
| Nuts (Pecans, etc.) | Nutty & Crunchy | Texture contrast |
| Sliced Bananas | Sweet & Subtly Creamy | Adds natural sweetness |
Feel free to combine multiple toppings to create a layer of flavors and textures!
Presentation Tips
Serving and presentation are just as important as the flavors. Here’s how we can plate these French Toast Pancakes beautifully:
- Stacking: Stack three pancakes neatly for a classic touch.
- Drizzle Artistically: Pour maple syrup in a zigzag or spiral pattern over the stack.
- Berry Placement: Arrange fresh berries around the plate or on the edges of the stack for pops of color.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Use a fine-mesh sifter to sprinkle sugar evenly over the entire stack.
- Garnish with Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a vibrant, fresh accent.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing French Toast Pancakes ahead of time can save us valuable moments on busy mornings while still allowing us to serve this indulgent breakfast fresh and delicious. Here’s how we can efficiently store and reheat them without compromising on flavor or texture.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
- Cooking in Advance:
After following the cooking steps—cooking the pancakes and dipping them in the French toast batter—let the pancakes cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from forming and avoids sogginess during storage.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
To freeze, layer the cooled pancakes between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Then, place them in a freezer-safe, airtight container or resealable bag. Write the date on the container for easy tracking. Stored this way, they can last up to 2 months.
- Refrigerating for Short-Term Storage:
If planning to consume within a few days, store the pancakes in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Here’s a quick reference for storage timelines:
| Storage Option | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months |
Reheating Instructions
The key to reheating French Toast Pancakes is ensuring they remain fluffy on the inside while still developing a slight crispness on the outside. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Oven Reheat (Best for Large Batches):
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture and heat for about 10 minutes, then uncover for the last 2 minutes to crisp up the edges.
- Stovetop Reheat (Quick Option):
- Grease a non-stick skillet lightly with butter or oil.
- Warm each pancake over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.
- Microwave Reheat (Fastest Option):
- Place 1-2 pancakes on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
Helpful Tips for Make-Ahead Convenience
- Freezing French Toast Batter: For an even quicker morning prep, we can mix the French toast coating separately and freeze it in an ice-cube tray. Thaw as needed and whisk until smooth.
- Stack and Freeze: Stack the pancakes with parchment in between before storing for easy individual portioning.
- Pre-Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine and store the pancake dry ingredients in an airtight container, ready for future use.
With these Make-Ahead Instructions, we can enjoy our French Toast Pancakes hassle-free while retaining their signature sumptuous taste and texture.
Tips And Variations
Creating French Toast Pancakes is a delightful process, but a few expert tips and thoughtful variations can elevate the dish to perfection. Let us guide you through some ideas to customize and maximize your cooking experience.
Tips for Perfect French Toast Pancakes
- Maintain Even Heat: Cook the pancakes over medium-low heat to ensure they’re golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. If the pan gets too hot, the pancakes might burn before they’re cooked through.
- Use Day-Old Pancakes for Texture: If you have leftover pancakes from the previous day, these can absorb more of the French toast batter, resulting in an extra-rich flavor with a crisp exterior.
- Keep the Batter Smooth: Whisk the pancake and French toast batters thoroughly to avoid lumps. Straining both mixtures through a fine-mesh sieve is another great option for a silky-smooth consistency.
- Rest the French Toast Batter: Allowing the French toast mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes lets the cinnamon and vanilla flavors infuse even further, creating a richer coating.
- Prevent Sogginess: Avoid soaking the pancakes for too long in the French toast batter; a quick dip is sufficient to coat them evenly without making them soggy.
- Preheat Equipment: Ensure the skillet or griddle is preheated before adding the pancakes. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. Use a touch of butter or oil for enhanced flavor and a non-stick surface.
Fun Variations to Try
We love experimenting with flavor combinations to make this dish unique. These variations will add a creative twist to your breakfast table:
Flavor Additions
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the pancake batter, then drizzle with chocolate syrup and top with fresh strawberries for a decadent treat.
- Cinnamon Roll Blend: Swirl cinnamon sugar butter into the pancake batter before cooking, emphasizing the rich, spiced flavor of French toast.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut or crushed pineapple into the batter, pairing perfectly with a dollop of whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes on top.
- Nutty Touch: Fold finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the pancake batter for a delicious crunch in every bite.
Savory Spin
- For a creative take, skip the sweet toppings and go savory! Add cooked bacon or sautéed spinach and feta cheese to the pancake batter, then top with a fried egg for a breakfast twist.
Alternative Batters
Want to accommodate dietary preferences? Substitute the base pancake batter with:
- Gluten-Free Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free mix for a celiac-friendly version.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Opt for whole wheat to add a heartier, nutty flavor.
- Vegan Pancake Batter: Use plant milk, flaxseed meal, and vegan butter for a dairy- and egg-free option.
Serving Suggestions
We suggest blending your favorite modifications with these serving enhancements:
- Spiced Syrup: Heat maple syrup with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor layer.
- Gourmet Garnishes: Dust the pancakes with powdered sugar before adding candied nuts or chocolate shavings for a chic touch.
- Layered Presentation: Stack the pancakes high with a thin spread of cream cheese or Nutella between each layer to amplify indulgence.
Quick Reference Table for Variations
| Category | Option | Suggested Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Additions | Chocolate chips, cinnamon butter, coconut | Whipped cream, strawberries, toasted coconut |
| Savory Spin | Bacon, spinach, feta cheese | Fried egg, fresh arugula |
| Alternative Batters | Gluten-free, whole wheat, vegan options | Regular toppings, plant-based syrups |
Pro Storage and Reuse Tip
Save any leftover French toast batter by freezing it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Alternatively, store leftover pancakes in the refrigerator for 3 days and reheat in a toaster for crispy edges. This method preserves both their texture and flavor with zero waste.
By incorporating these Tips And Variations, we can enhance our French Toast Pancakes creation while tailoring the dish to our personal preferences or dietary needs.
Conclusion
French Toast Pancakes bring together the best of two breakfast classics in a way that’s both indulgent and versatile. With endless topping options, make-ahead tips, and creative variations, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy morning at home or an impressive brunch spread.
By following our expert tips and using the right tools, you can create a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Let this recipe inspire you to experiment, customize, and enjoy every bite of this flavorful fusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Toast Pancakes?
French Toast Pancakes are a breakfast hybrid that combines the fluffy texture of pancakes with the cinnamon-infused richness of French toast. This dish involves cooking pancakes and then dipping them in a French toast batter before cooking them again for added flavor and crispness.
What ingredients are needed for French Toast Pancakes?
You’ll need two components: pancake batter and French toast coating. The pancake batter includes flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, eggs, butter, and vanilla. The French toast coating uses eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Can I customize the toppings for French Toast Pancakes?
Yes! Popular toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or nuts. You can mix and match toppings to suit your taste or even add a savory twist with bacon or spinach.
How do I make French Toast Pancakes in advance?
To save time, you can refrigerate cooked pancakes for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven, microwave, or skillet to preserve their texture. You may also pre-mix dry ingredients or freeze the French toast batter for easier preparation.
What tools do I need to make French Toast Pancakes?
Essential tools include a whisk, mixing bowls, spatula, non-stick skillet or griddle, measuring cups, and tongs. Optional tools like a sifter, thermometer, and pastry brush can make the process even smoother and improve the final presentation.
How do I store leftover French Toast Pancakes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes with parchment paper between each layer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly on the skillet or in the oven for the best results.
Can I make French Toast Pancakes gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option or substitute plant-based milk and vegan egg replacements, such as flaxseed or applesauce, to make the recipe vegan-friendly. Adjust the ingredients as needed for optimal consistency.
Why do my pancakes not turn out fluffy?
Fluffy pancakes depend on properly mixing the batter without overworking it and maintaining medium heat while cooking. Using fresh baking powder and baking soda ensures the pancakes rise well. Additionally, avoid flipping the pancakes too early.
Are there any flavor variations for French Toast Pancakes?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, citrus zest, cinnamon sugar, or tropical flavors like coconut and pineapple. For a savory version, try incorporating ingredients like shredded cheese, spinach, or crumbled bacon into the batter.
How can I serve French Toast Pancakes for a special presentation?
For an eye-catching presentation, stack the pancakes neatly, drizzle syrup or chocolate over the top, and garnish with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a sprig of mint. Arrange the toppings artfully for a vibrant and inviting dish.