Hot Chocolate Pancakes Recipe: A Cozy Breakfast Treat Everyone Will Love
Nothing beats the comfort of Hot Chocolate Pancakes on a chilly morning when you want to turn your ordinary breakfast into something extraordinary.
Picture this: fluffy, chocolate-infused pancakes that taste like your favorite winter drink, complete with all the cozy vibes of sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace. These decadent pancake recipes bring together the best of both worlds – the satisfying comfort of pancakes and the rich, warming flavors of hot chocolate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hot chocolate pancake recipe has become my family’s weekend tradition, especially during those lazy Saturday mornings when we want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. What makes these chocolate breakfast pancakes truly magical is how they capture that authentic hot cocoa flavor while maintaining the perfect fluffy texture we all crave.
The beauty of this easy chocolate pancake recipe lies in its simplicity – using everyday ingredients like Bisquick mix and chocolate milk, you can create something that feels gourmet without the fuss. My kids absolutely lose their minds over these fluffy hot cocoa pancakes, and I love how they transform our regular breakfast routine into something that feels like a celebration. Plus, when you top them with miniature marshmallows and whipped cream, they become the ultimate breakfast dessert ideas that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Looking for more comforting meal ideas? Explore more quick & easy dinner recipes here to complete your day with equally delicious options.
Ingredients List
These homemade chocolate pancakes require just a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry:
| Pancake Base | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Original Bisquick™ mix | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Unsweetened baking cocoa | 2 tablespoons |
| Chocolate milk | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Optional Toppings | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chocolate syrup | As desired |
| Whipped cream | As desired |
| Miniature marshmallows | As desired |
| Chocolate candy sprinkles | As desired |
Want to pair these pancakes with other satisfying meals throughout your day? Find more delicious lunch ideas here to keep the comfort food momentum going.
Step-by-Step Directions
Creating these Hot Chocolate Pancakes is incredibly straightforward and takes just minutes to prepare. Follow these simple steps for perfectly fluffy chocolate breakfast pancakes every time:
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix, sugar, and unsweetened baking cocoa until well combined. This ensures your chocolate flavor is evenly distributed throughout.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then stir in the chocolate milk and vanilla extract. The chocolate milk is what gives these pancakes their authentic hot cocoa taste.
- Create the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix – a few lumps are perfectly fine and will result in fluffier pancakes.
- Heat your griddle: Preheat your griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pancakes: Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through.

Exact Timing to make Hot Chocolate Pancakes
The entire process for these decadent pancake recipes is remarkably quick, making them perfect for busy mornings:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10-12 minutes
- Total time: 15-17 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 people (makes about 12 pancakes)
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content helps you make informed decisions about incorporating these chocolate breakfast pancakes into your meal planning:
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 2 pancakes) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
These nutritional values are based on the original recipe using regular Bisquick mix and whole chocolate milk. The cocoa powder provides antioxidants, while the eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
Healthier Alternatives
You can easily modify this Hot Chocolate Pancakes recipe to meet various dietary needs while maintaining that delicious hot cocoa flavor:
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Original Bisquick Mix | Heart Smart Bisquick or Whole Wheat Pancake Mix | Higher fiber, lower sodium, better heart health |
| Regular Sugar | Maple syrup, honey, or stevia | Lower glycemic index, natural sweeteners |
| Whole Chocolate Milk | Unsweetened almond milk + cocoa powder | Dairy-free, lower calories, reduced sugar |
| Regular Eggs | Egg whites or flax eggs | Lower cholesterol or vegan-friendly option |
| Regular Cocoa Powder | Dark chocolate cocoa powder | Higher antioxidants, richer flavor |
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 30% while adding nutritional benefits. For those following specific diets, these swaps make the recipe adaptable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or lower-sugar lifestyles.
Looking for more sweet treats to complement your breakfast? Explore more delicious desserts here for additional indulgent options.
Serving Suggestions
Create the Ultimate Hot Chocolate Experience: Serve these fluffy hot cocoa pancakes with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of miniature marshmallows, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Add a light dusting of cocoa powder on top to enhance the hot chocolate theme, and consider serving alongside a steaming mug of actual hot chocolate for the complete experience.
Gourmet Breakfast Spread: Elevate your Hot Chocolate Pancakes by creating a breakfast buffet with fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, and various syrups. The contrast of fresh fruit with the rich chocolate flavors creates a balanced and visually appealing presentation that’s perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions.
Make-Ahead Breakfast Solution: These chocolate breakfast pancakes freeze beautifully, making them perfect for busy weekday mornings. Simply toast them straight from the freezer and add your favorite toppings for a quick yet indulgent breakfast that rivals any café experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Batter: The biggest mistake when making these decadent pancake recipes is overmixing the batter, which leads to tough, dense pancakes instead of fluffy ones. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined – lumps are your friend! The gluten development from excessive stirring will ruin the tender texture that makes these pancakes special.
Wrong Heat Temperature: Cooking Hot Chocolate Pancakes on heat that’s too high will burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, especially problematic with chocolate-based batters. Medium heat is crucial – if your first pancake cooks too quickly or burns, reduce the temperature and let the griddle adjust before continuing.
Skipping the Resting Time: While this recipe is quick, letting the batter rest for 2-3 minutes after mixing allows the Bisquick to fully hydrate and results in better texture. This brief pause also helps the bubbles settle, leading to more evenly cooked pancakes with better rise.
Storing Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Hot Chocolate Pancakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days by placing them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the toaster or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through, maintaining their fluffy texture.
Freezer Storage for Meal Prep: These homemade chocolate pancakes freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months when properly stored. Cool completely before placing in freezer bags with parchment paper separating each pancake, then toast directly from frozen for quick weekday breakfasts that taste freshly made.
Batter Storage: The pancake batter can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator, though you may need to add a tablespoon of chocolate milk to thin it slightly before cooking. This make-ahead option is perfect for holiday mornings or when you want to streamline your breakfast preparation without sacrificing the fresh taste.
FAQs
Can I make Hot Chocolate Pancakes without Bisquick mix?
Yes, you can substitute Bisquick with a homemade mix using 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons sugar. This creates the same base for your Hot Chocolate Pancakes while giving you more control over the ingredients and sodium content.
What makes Hot Chocolate Pancakes taste different from regular chocolate pancakes?
The key difference lies in using chocolate milk instead of regular milk, which creates that authentic hot cocoa flavor profile. The combination of chocolate milk with cocoa powder mimics the taste of your favorite hot chocolate drink, making these Hot Chocolate Pancakes uniquely comforting and nostalgic.
How do I prevent my Hot Chocolate Pancakes from being too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure your baking powder in the Bisquick mix is fresh for proper rise. Additionally, don’t press down on the Hot Chocolate Pancakes while cooking, and maintain medium heat to allow them to cook evenly and develop their characteristic fluffy texture.
Can I make Hot Chocolate Pancakes dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the chocolate milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk mixed with cocoa powder, and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg). These modifications maintain the delicious flavor of Hot Chocolate Pancakes while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Hot Chocolate Pancakes
- Total Time: 15 to 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
Cozy and rich Hot Chocolate Pancakes made with a fluffy chocolate batter and warm cocoa flavor. A comforting breakfast treat that feels like sipping hot cocoa by the fire. Perfect for anyone who loves cake recipes or recipes breakfast ideas, these soft pancakes make mornings feel extra special.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Original Bisquick mix
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened baking cocoa
- 1 cup chocolate milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Chocolate syrup as desired
- Whipped cream as desired
- Miniature marshmallows as desired
- Chocolate candy sprinkles as desired
Instructions
- Whisk Bisquick mix, sugar, and cocoa in a large bowl until blended.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and mix in the chocolate milk and vanilla.
- Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture just until combined without overmixing.
- Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium and lightly grease the surface.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle.
- Cook until bubbles form and edges set, then flip and cook until done.
Notes
For extra richness, drizzle chocolate syrup over the pancakes and finish with marshmallows and whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: hot chocolate pancakes, recipes breakfast, cake recipes

