Chocolate chip pancake with cocoa milk

Chocolate chip pancake with cocoa milk

45 min
Enjoy the tasty blend of fluffy pancakes filled with rich, melty chocolate chips, enhanced by a hint of citrus zest and cocoa milk. This chocolate chip pancake recipe elevates a classic comfort food into an exceptional breakfast or brunch delight, crowned with fresh blueberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a playful touch of powdered sugar. Ideal for weekend mornings, special occasions, or whenever you crave a sweet treat.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/chocolate-chip-pancake-with-cocoa-milk/

Instructions

  • Separate the eggs into yolks and whites. In a mixing bowl, beat the yolks and sugar (reserving 1 teaspoon of sugar for the egg whites) for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and airy, creating a smooth eggnog base.
  • Combine half of the flour with the baking powder and gently fold it into the egg mixture until just incorporated.
  • In a small, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the cocoa milk and butter over even heat until the butter melts completely.
  • Gradually mix the melted cocoa milk mixture into the egg, along with the remaining flour and any additional ingredients, stirring until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the reserved teaspoon of sugar for about 3 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the batter, maintaining as much air as possible.
  • Heat a frying pan until very hot and add three portions of batter (approximately 50 ml each) into the pan.
  • Cook the pancakes for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown, and transfer them to a warm plate to keep them warm.
  • Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
  • Finish by sprinkling the pancakes with powdered sugar and serve immediately with fresh blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Recommended information

Serving suggestion

Enjoy!
Add salt or coffee to intensify the chocolate flavour

To bring out the rich, deep notes of chocolate, consider adding a pinch of salt or a small amount of coffee to the batter. A dash of sea salt enhances the sweetness and balances the bitterness of the cocoa, creating a more complex and well-rounded flavour. Similarly, a teaspoon of instant coffee or a splash of brewed espresso amplifies the chocolate's natural depth and provides a subtle, bold kick. These simple additions work together to intensify the chocolatey richness, making your pancakes even more indulgent and satisfying.

Separate your eggs like a pro

Start with cold eggs, which are easier to separate without breaking the yolks. Gently crack the egg on a flat surface (to avoid pushing shell fragments into the egg) and hold it over a small bowl. Carefully transfer the yolk back and forth between the two shell halves, letting the whites drip into the bowl. For added precision, you can use clean hands to catch the yolk while allowing the whites to slip through your fingers. Always separate each egg into a separate bowl before adding it to the batter, in case of accidental yolk breaks. With these techniques, you’ll ensure cleanly separated eggs every time.

Prevent your batter from curdling

Batter can curdle when ingredients are at different temperatures, so a careful approach is essential for this recipe, where the egg mixture is added to warm cocoa milk. To avoid this, begin by allowing the milk to cool slightly after heating, which prevents the eggs from cooking on contact. Next, temper the eggs by whisking a small amount of the warm cocoa milk into the egg mixture. This gradual process raises the temperature of the eggs slowly, avoiding scrambling. Once tempered, gently pour the egg mixture back into the remaining chocolate milk while whisking continuously. This method ensures a smooth, silky batter without lumps or curdling. Taking the time to temper the eggs properly will guarantee the perfect texture for your pancakes.

Questions about our chocolate chip pancake recipe

Our recipe combines the comfort of fluffy pancakes with the rich taste of chocolate. Below, we answer common questions to help you perfect your skills and discover different ways to enhance and enjoy this decadent dish.

Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with a variety of chocolate types to suit your taste. For a rich and intense flavour, opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, such as 70% or higher. If you prefer a sweeter, milder flavour, milk chocolate is a great choice. For a unique twist, try using white chocolate – it won’t have the traditional cocoa flavour but will add a creamy, indulgent sweetness to the pancakes. You can even experiment with flavoured chocolates, such as orange or mint, to give your pancakes a special touch.
Why do my chocolate chips sink?
A too thin batter is a common culprit as it provides less support, causing heavier ingredients like chocolate chips to sink to the bottom. To prevent this, ensure your batter has the right consistency – it should be thick enough to hold the chips in place. When chopping the chocolate, avoid cutting it into large chunks, as heavier pieces are more likely to sink. Instead, aim for small, evenly sized pieces that can distribute more easily throughout the batter. Another helpful tip is to lightly coat the chocolate with a small amount of flour before mixing into the batter. This creates a barrier that helps suspend the chips evenly throughout the mixture. Finally, adding the chips just before cooking can also reduce sinking, ensuring they’re evenly distributed in your pancakes.
What other toppings go well with this chocolate chip pancake recipe?
There are endless topping options to elevate this recipe. A dollop of skyr – a thick and creamy Icelandic yoghurt – adds a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully. Pair it with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for added flavour. Fresh fruit, such as berries, banana slices, or orange segments, also brightens the dish and balances the richness of the chocolate. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans on top. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more decadent, add a swirl of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Nutritional values

Nutritional value, per

2567 Kcal

Fibre 13 gram fibers
Protein 36.2 %
Carbohydrates 363.5 %
Fat 106.6 gram

Ingredients

Eggs
6
Sugar
4 tbsp
Plain flour
250 g
Baking powder
1 tsp
Cocoa milk
250 ml
Butter
100 g
Salt
½ tsp
Lemon zest, finely grated
1 tsp
Dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
50 g
To serve
Blueberries
125 g
Maple syrup
75 ml
Icing sugar

Gently fold the egg whites in for maximum fluffiness

Start by ensuring the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks, as this creates the air bubbles that will give the batter its airy texture. When combining, work in two stages: first, fold in about a third of the whites to loosen the mixture. Use a silicone spatula and a gentle folding motion, scooping from the bottom of the bowl and turning the batter over while rotating the bowl. Avoid vigorous stirring, as this can deflate the delicate air bubbles.

Once the first portion is incorporated, gently fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined – some streaks are fine to prevent overmixing. This careful technique preserves the airiness of the egg whites, resulting in pancakes that are perfectly fluffy and tender.

Experiment with different milk infusions

Take this chocolate chip pancake recipe to the next level by infusing the cocoa milk with extra flavours before incorporating it into the batter. Start by warming the milk with ingredients like vanilla pods, cinnamon sticks, or orange zest to add a subtle aromatic twist that complements the chocolate.

For a richer flavour, try infusing the milk with instant coffee granules or a splash of hazelnut syrup for a nutty depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of chili flakes or ground cardamom for a bold, unexpected kick. Once infused, strain the milk to remove any solids before mixing it into the batter.

Pair your pancakes with other chocolatey delights

For a citrusy twist, try this sweet pancake recipe. The combination of rich chocolate ice cream, zesty orange, and crunchy pistachios creates a luxurious treat perfect for any occasion. Alternatively, explore the bold flavours of our chocolate pancake recipe, pairing the deep richness of chocolate with the warm spice of cardamom for a truly unique flavour profile.

Optimal cooking surface and temperature

To achieve the best results when making this chocolate chip pancake recipe, choose the right cooking surface and manage the temperature effectively. We recommend a heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet or griddle, as it distributes heat evenly. This helps prevent uneven cooking and burning. It is important to preheat your skillet or griddle to a medium setting before you start cooking. This ensures the surface is ready to cook the pancakes as soon as you pour the batter, which seals in the fluffiness and prevents sticking.

Keep an eye on the heat level while cooking and adjust it as necessary to maintain a consistent temperature. This helps cook them thoroughly without burning, while also improving the texture and preserving the delicate flavours of the chocolate chips and milk.

Easy techniques to level up your presentation

Take your presentation to the next level with these simple techniques:

  • Stack with style: create a visually appealing stack by arranging the pancakes in a staggered formation rather than placing them directly on top of one another. This adds height, dimension, and a sense of movement, making it more dynamic and inviting.
  • Elegant garnishing: lightly dust the top pancake with powdered sugar for a subtle touch of sweetness and sophistication. The fine, snowy appearance adds a delicate beauty to the dish and enhances its overall appeal.
  • Thoughtful blueberry placement: instead of scattering blueberries randomly, arrange them strategically around and on top of the stack. A small pile of berries on the top pancake adds a vibrant pop of colour and ties the freshness of the fruit with the rich pancakes.
  • Finishing touches: drizzle maple syrup just before serving, letting it cascade down the sides of the stack for a glossy, mouthwatering effect. For an extra flourish, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of lemon peel to add a touch of elegance and a hint of contrasting colour.