Every Saturday morning when my kids were little, I’d wake up early to surprise them with something warm and cozy. One chilly morning, I found myself staring at pancake batter but wanting to do something more playful. That’s when I decided to spoon the batter into my aebleskiver pan instead of the griddle and just like that, pancake poppers were born in our kitchen.

They were golden, fluffy, and easy for little hands to grab. Since then, pancake poppers have become one of my favorite go-to breakfast treats. Whether I’m filling them with fruit, chocolate, or just dusting them with powdered sugar, they’re always a hit. Plus, they make mornings a little more magical and a whole lot easier to clean up after!

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
All-purpose flour – Gives structure and helps the poppers hold their round shape.
Baking powder – Provides the rise that makes them light and fluffy.
Granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the batter.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and gives richness.
Milk – Helps form a smooth batter and adds moisture.
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and sweetness to the flavor.
Butter (melted) – Adds richness and keeps them from drying out.
Mini chocolate chips or fruit bits (optional) – For a little extra surprise inside!
Powdered sugar – For dusting on top before serving.

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl – For combining all the batter ingredients smoothly.
Whisk – To mix everything without overworking the batter.
Aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker – The key tool to get those perfect round shapes.
Measuring cups and spoons – To get your ingredient ratios just right.
Spatula or spoon – For gently turning the poppers halfway through cooking.
Sifter (optional) – To sprinkle powdered sugar evenly over the top.

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the dry ingredients

I start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the wet ingredients

Next, I beat in the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth. If I want a slightly thicker batter, I let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the pan

I heat my aebleskiver pan over medium heat and lightly grease each cavity with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Fill the pan

Using a spoon or small scoop, I fill each hole about ¾ full with batter. If I’m adding fillings like chocolate chips or fruit, I gently press them into the center.

Step 5: Turn the poppers

Once the edges start to firm up and the bottom is golden, I use a skewer or small spoon to flip each one gently. I try to turn them halfway to keep the round shape.

Step 6: Finish cooking

I let them cook until the other side is golden and they feel firm to the touch. I remove them from the pan and repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 7: Serve and dust

Once they’re all done, I let them cool slightly and then dust them with powdered sugar before serving.

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Tips

If you want a filled surprise, I recommend trying a small dollop of jam or Nutella in the center. I also sometimes add a bit of cinnamon to the batter for a warm flavor twist. And if you’re making a big batch, you can keep them warm in the oven at 200°F while you finish cooking.

Ways to Serve

Drizzled with maple syrup and served with fresh fruit.

Dipped in yogurt or chocolate sauce as a fun brunch treat.

Packed into lunchboxes for a sweet midday snack.

Stacked on skewers for a festive breakfast party tray!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Breakfast Pancake Poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a month. Just reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

What if I don’t have an aebleskiver pan?

You can use a cake pop maker or mini muffin tin instead, but you won’t get the same round shape.

Can I make these Breakfast Pancake Poppers gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just substitute a gluten-free all purpose flour blend and follow the same instructions.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these breakfast pancake poppers a try! They’re simple, fun, and a delicious way to switch up your morning routine. I’d love to hear what creative fillings you use or how your family enjoys them. Save this one for your next weekend brunch it’s a keeper.

Happy Cooking!