Save A whimsical and delightful brunch board featuring fluffy pancakes decorated to resemble polar bears, served with fresh fruit, creamy spreads, and breakfast accompaniments—perfect for kids and family gatherings.
This recipe brings joy to our family mornings as everyone loves assembling and eating their own polar bear pancakes.
Ingredients
- Pancakes: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 cups buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Polar Bear Decorations: 1 cup thick Greek yogurt (for snouts and ears), 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (for ears), 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips or candy eyes (for eyes and noses), 1 banana sliced (for ears and snouts)
- Accompaniments: 1 cup fresh blueberries, 1 cup strawberries halved, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread, 1/2 cup whipped cream, 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl whisk together the flour sugar baking powder baking soda and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a separate bowl mix the buttermilk eggs melted butter and vanilla extract.
- Step 3:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined do not overmix.
- Step 4:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Step 5:
- For each polar bear pour one large pancake (about 1/3 cup batter) for the face and two smaller pancakes (about 1 tbsp batter each) for the ears Cook until bubbles form on the surface then flip and cook until golden Repeat with remaining batter.
- Step 6:
- Arrange pancakes in stacks on a large board place the large pancake as the face and two small pancakes as ears.
- Step 7:
- Use Greek yogurt and banana slices to create the snout and inner ears.
- Step 8:
- Place chocolate chips or candy eyes for the eyes and nose Use mini marshmallows or banana slices for the outer ears.
- Step 9:
- Fill the board with fresh fruit maple syrup chocolate spread whipped cream and toasted coconut as desired.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately and let guests assemble or decorate their own polar bear pancakes.
Save This recipe often sparks laughter and creativity around our breakfast table as kids customize their polar bear pancakes.
Notes
Try adding shredded coconut or lemon zest to the pancake batter for extra flavor Garnish with edible flowers for a festive touch
Required Tools
Large mixing bowls Whisk Nonstick skillet or griddle Spatula Large serving board or platter Small bowls for accompaniments
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) eggs milk (dairy) possible nuts (chocolate hazelnut spread) Check chocolate chips and spreads for possible allergens Always verify ingredient labels for cross-contamination if serving to those with allergies
Save Enjoy this charming brunch that combines creativity with delicious flavors for a memorable family meal.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I shape the pancakes like polar bears?
Pour one large round pancake for the face and two smaller ones for the ears onto the griddle. Assemble them on a board to mimic the bear’s head.
- → What toppings create the bear’s facial features?
Use Greek yogurt and banana slices for snouts and ears, and chocolate chips or candy eyes to form eyes and noses.
- → Can I make this without dairy?
Yes, substitute the buttermilk with plant-based milk and use dairy-free yogurt for the decorations.
- → What fruits work best as accompaniments?
Fresh blueberries and strawberries complement the stack with natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- → How to keep pancakes fluffy and light?
Mix wet and dry ingredients gently without overmixing to maintain airiness, and cook on medium heat until golden bubbles form before flipping.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the batter?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.