Save Sweet, spicy, and fun, these pancake balls combine the nostalgia of funfetti cake, the heat of Flamin Hot chips, and the fluffiness of pancakes—perfect for adventurous eaters or party treats.
I first made these for a birthday party where bold flavors were a hit with both kids and adults. They disappeared quickly and became an instant favorite for game nights.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g)
- Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Rainbow sprinkles (funfetti style): 1/4 cup
- Large egg: 1
- Milk: 2/3 cup (160 ml)
- Buttermilk: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Unsalted butter, melted: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Flamin Hot chips, crushed: 1 cup (30 g)
- Cream cheese, softened: 1/4 cup (optional filling)
- Powdered sugar: 2 tbsp (optional filling)
- Extra rainbow sprinkles: for garnish
- Additional Flamin Hot crumbs: for garnish
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the rainbow sprinkles.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Form Batter:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Add Flamin Hot Crunch:
- Gently fold in half the crushed Flamin Hot chips to distribute heat and color.
- Prepare Filling (Optional):
- If using, mix cream cheese with powdered sugar to create a sweet filling.
- Heat Cooking Surface:
- Heat a cake pop maker, aebleskiver pan, or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Grease lightly with butter or oil.
- Scoop and Fill:
- Scoop 1 tablespoon of batter into each well. If filling, place 1/2 teaspoon of sweetened cream cheese in the center, then cover with more batter.
- Cook Pancake Balls:
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until golden on the bottom, then rotate balls (or flip in pan) to cook evenly on all sides for another 2–3 minutes.
- Coat and Serve:
- Remove pancake balls and toss immediately in remaining Flamin Hot crumbs for a spicy, crunchy coating. Serve warm, topped with extra sprinkles and crushed chips as desired.
Save My sister and I laughed when the pancake balls turned out bright red. Even our grandma enjoyed the sweet-and-spicy surprise at our family brunch.
Required Tools
You will need mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups, a cake pop maker or skillet, and tongs or a fork for flipping.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, egg, dairy, and possible traces of soy in Flamin Hot chips. Always check the labels of chips and sprinkles before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of five balls contains 260 calories, 9 g fat, 39 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein.
Save Serve these straight from the pan for maximum crunch and color. They are sure to spark smiles and conversations at any gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → What gives these treats their spicy kick?
Crushed Flamin Hot chips are mixed into the batter and used as a crunchy coating, giving each bite a flavorful, spicy punch.
- → Can I make these pancake balls without a cake pop maker?
Yes. An aebleskiver pan or a regular nonstick skillet works well. Just cook small rounds, flipping to brown all sides.
- → Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly treat. Ensure other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → What fillings can I add for extra flavor?
Use sweetened cream cheese or experiment with fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or candy bits for unique flavor combinations.
- → How do I balance the heat in these snacks?
Pair with cold milk or a creamy vanilla shake to mellow the spiciness from the Flamin Hot chips while enjoying the flavors.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Always verify the chip and sprinkle labels for specific dietary concerns.