Save Last Sunday morning I woke up craving pancakes but wanted something faster than flipping full sized ones. I grabbed a squeeze bottle from the pantry and started dotting batter into the skillet like polka dots. My kids walked into the kitchen and immediately asked what I was doing. When I served them bowls of tiny pancakes with milk they looked at me like I had invented the greatest thing ever.
My sister came over last week and I made these for her kids. They sat at the counter counting how many tiny pancakes they could fit on their spoons. The kitchen was filled with laughter and the smell of warm vanilla. Sometimes the simplest mornings become the ones we talk about later.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: The foundation that gives these little pancakes their structure and fluffy bounce
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tang of buttermilk without making them dessert
- Baking powder and baking soda: This duo creates the lift that makes each mini pancake puff up beautifully
- Salt: A tiny pinch that wakes up all the flavors so they do not taste flat
- Buttermilk: The acidity tenderizes the gluten and creates those coveted soft interiors
- Egg: Binds everything together while adding richness and structure
- Melted butter: Adds flavor and helps create those golden crispy edges
- Vanilla extract: Pure comfort flavor that makes everything taste homemade
Instructions
- Whisk the dry foundation:
- Combine flour sugar baking powder baking soda and salt in a large bowl until evenly blended
- Mix the wet mixture:
- Whisk buttermilk egg melted butter and vanilla in another bowl until completely smooth
- Combine gently:
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and fold together until just combined with some lumps remaining
- Prep your batter tool:
- Transfer batter to a squeeze bottle or piping bag for the easiest dispensing method
- Heat the pan:
- Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a light coating of butter or oil
- Dot the batter:
- Squeeze tiny circles about half an inch wide onto the skillet leaving space between each
- Wait for bubbles:
- Cook one to two minutes until bubbles appear on surface and edges look set then flip
- Finish golden:
- Cook another thirty to sixty seconds until lightly golden and transfer to a plate
- Assemble bowls:
- Pile mini pancakes into bowls drizzle with maple syrup and pour cold milk over top
Save Last winter I made these for a snow day breakfast. My neighbor texted me asking what smelled so good and I brought over a bowl for her family. Now every time it snows she asks if I am making the tiny pancakes again.
Squeeze Bottle Secrets
I have tried piping bags spoons and even Ziploc bags with corners snipped off. Nothing works as well as an actual squeeze bottle from the condiment aisle. The control you get means every pancake comes out the same size and they all cook at the same rate. Wash it out really well after so you do not taste pancake batter in your ketchup next week.
Flavor Variations
Once you master the basic batter these become a canvas for whatever sounds good. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter before squeezing or add fresh blueberries right after the dots hit the pan. Sometimes I stir cinnamon and nutmeg into the dry mix for a cozy spiced version.
Serving Ideas
Think beyond just maple syrup and milk because these tiny pancakes are incredibly versatile. Try them with yogurt and fresh fruit for a slightly healthier spin or go all in with whipped cream and sprinkles for a birthday breakfast. They are also perfect layered in a small glass parfait style.
- Set up a topping bar and let everyone build their own bowl
- Make a double batch and reheat leftovers in the toaster
- Keep extra batter in the fridge for up to two days
Save These tiny pancakes turn an ordinary morning into something special without much extra effort. Enjoy every spoonful.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes the pancakes fluffy?
The combination of baking powder, baking soda, and buttermilk in the batter helps create a light and airy texture.
- → How do I achieve uniform mini pancake sizes?
Using a squeeze bottle or piping bag allows precise control for small, evenly sized pancakes.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Yes, add mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or substitute maple syrup with honey or fruit compote for variety.
- → What is the best fat for greasing the pan?
Unsalted butter or neutral oil work well to prevent sticking and add subtle flavor.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Substitute dairy-free milk and butter to accommodate dairy-free diets without sacrificing taste.