Why You'll Love It
- The coffee infusion adds depth without bitterness
- Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect way to use leftover coffee
- Makes ordinary breakfast feel fancy
*"My family can't get enough of these! The coffee flavor is subtle but wonderful - like having your morning cup and breakfast all in one bite."*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Strong brewed coffee: Use freshly brewed coffee that's cooled slightly - the stronger the brew, the more pronounced the coffee flavor will be in your pancakes.
- All-purpose flour: Sift your flour to avoid lumps and create that light, airy texture we're after. Measure carefully for consistent results.
- Buttermilk: The tanginess balances the coffee's richness and helps create tender pancakes. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute with milk and lemon juice.
- Baking powder: This is what gives our pancakes their lift. Make sure yours is fresh for maximum fluffiness.
- Vanilla extract: Just a touch enhances the coffee flavor and adds warmth to the overall taste profile.
- Maple syrup: The natural sweetness complements the coffee notes perfectly. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Have all ingredients at room temperature before you start. Cold ingredients can affect how the batter comes together and how evenly the pancakes cook.
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Flavor Development:
The coffee flavor deepens as the batter rests for those few minutes. It's worth the wait - the pancakes develop a richer taste profile.
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Texture Control:
Don't overmix the batter. Those little lumps are actually a good thing - they help create that tender, fluffy texture we love in pancakes.
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Finishing Touches:
The moment you slide the spatula under a pancake and see those golden-brown edges - that's when you know they're ready to flip.
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Serving Timing:
Pancakes are best served immediately while they're still warm and fluffy. Keep finished ones in a warm oven until you're ready to serve.
- Let the batter rest 5-10 minutes for fluffier pancakes
- Use a 1/4 cup measure for evenly sized pancakes
- Wait for bubbles to form before flipping
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven
Pro Tips
You know, I've made these coffee pancakes so many times that the process feels like second nature now. The rhythm of measuring, mixing, and watching them bubble away on the griddle - it's comforting. Sometimes I'll make extra batter and keep it for the next morning, though they're always best fresh. The warmth that fills the kitchen when these are cooking is something special. It's not just the smell of pancakes, but that rich coffee aroma mixed in. It reminds me of Sunday mornings when I was little, watching my own mother at the stove. Funny how food can carry those memories forward.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Don't skip resting the batter - it makes a huge difference
- Use strong coffee for best flavor results
- A hot, well-greased griddle is essential
- Resist the urge to press down on cooking pancakes
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed?
Yes, you can dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee in the milk or water called for in the recipe. The flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.
→ How do I keep pancakes warm without them getting soggy?
Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven. Don't stack them or cover them tightly - the steam will make them soft.
→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?
You can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before, but combine them just before cooking for the fluffiest results.
→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
A toaster or toaster oven works best to restore some crispness. Microwave will make them soft.
→ Can I freeze these pancakes?
Absolutely! Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat in the toaster straight from frozen.
→ Why are my pancakes flat?
This could be from overmixing the batter, not fresh baking powder, or the griddle not being hot enough when you started cooking.
Chef's Tips
Batter thickens as it rests - this is normal,Adjust coffee strength to your taste preference,Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven,Leftovers freeze beautifully for quick breakfasts
Nutrition Facts
per serving
285
Calories
8g
Protein
45g
Carbs
8g
Fat
Taste Profile
Warm, comforting with rich coffee notes balanced by sweet pancake base
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Let sit for 5 minutes before using to thicken
Will result in a denser, heartier pancake
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Chocolate Chip Coffee Pancakes
Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter for a mocha-inspired treat
Cinnamon Coffee Pancakes
Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon to the dry ingredients for warm spice notes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Overmixing the batter resulting in tough pancakes
- Cooking at too high heat causing burning
- Flipping too early before bubbles form
- Not letting the griddle heat properly first
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the dry ingredients the night before. Wet ingredients can be measured and kept separate in the refrigerator. Combine just before cooking.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat in a toaster or toaster oven to restore crispness. They make great quick breakfasts during the week.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Measure and mix dry ingredients, brew coffee
Combine wet ingredients, mix batter, let rest
Cook pancakes in batches, keeping finished ones warm
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings
Coffee Pancakes Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch
Fluffy coffee pancakes that bring the warmth of morning coffee right into your breakfast stack. With rich coffee flavor infused into each tender bite, these pancakes are perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special brunch occasions.
Timing
Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 01 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 02 2 tablespoons sugar
- 03 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 04 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 05 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 01 1 1/2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 02 1 cup buttermilk
- 03 2 large eggs
- 04 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients - flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center.
In another bowl, combine the cooled coffee, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Whisk until well blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Don't overmix - a few lumps are fine. Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes.
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the hot surface.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Serve warm with maple syrup, butter, and maybe some fresh berries if you're feeling fancy. Enjoy the cozy coffee aroma!
Notes & Tips
- 1 Batter thickens as it rests - this is normal
- 2 Adjust coffee strength to your taste preference
- 3 Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven
- 4 Leftovers freeze beautifully for quick breakfasts
Tools You'll Need
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Large mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Griddle or large skillet
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Spatula
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Ladle or 1/4 cup measure
Must-Know Tips
- Don't overmix the batter - lumps are good
- Let batter rest for fluffier pancakes
- Wait for bubbles before flipping
- Keep heat consistent - not too hot
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature ingredients blend better
- Resting batter allows gluten to relax
- A hot surface creates that perfect crust
- Don't press pancakes while cooking
Recipe by
Emma Fields“Mornings are my magic hour! I create easy, energizing breakfasts that turn sleepy starts into sunshine moments.” ☀️🥞
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