There’s something magical about bringing the joy of a classic breakfast to the table in a totally new way, and that’s exactly what Pancake Tacos do! These soft, golden pancakes act as playful little taco shells, ready to be filled with a bounty of fresh fruit, clouds of whipped cream or creamy yogurt, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. The best part? Every bite offers that fluffy pancake goodness balanced with juicy sweetness, making this dish an irresistible choice for breakfast, brunch, or a treat-yourself snack. Whether you’re a long-time pancake lover or searching for a festive twist to spice up your mornings, Pancake Tacos promise a smile with every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients, each playing an important part in the deliciousness of Pancake Tacos. A good pancake batter is all about harmony: fluffiness from leaveners, richness from buttermilk, and just a hint of sweetness to bring everything together. The toppings add bursts of color and flavor!
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the batter, giving structure and just the right amount of chewiness.
- Granulated sugar: Brings a gentle sweetness that makes the pancakes irresistible without overpowering the toppings.
- Baking powder: Essential for those perfectly fluffy, cloud-like pancakes.
- Baking soda: Reacts with buttermilk for even more lift and tenderness.
- Salt: Don’t skip it! Salt balances the sweet and enhances every flavor.
- Buttermilk: Adds a light tang and makes pancakes extra soft; it’s the secret to classic diner-style results.
- Large egg: Holds everything together and adds a little richness.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Gives the pancakes a subtle buttery flavor and tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a beautiful aroma to every bite.
- Assorted fresh fruit (like strawberries, blueberries, bananas): For colorful, sweet, and juicy taco fillings.
- Whipped cream or yogurt: Choose your favorite—whipped cream for indulgence, or creamy yogurt for a tangy, lighter option.
- Maple syrup: The final flourish: a drizzle of liquid gold that ties together all the flavors.
How to Make Pancake Tacos
Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and whisking together your flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This simple step ensures everything will be evenly distributed, helping you avoid unpleasant surprises like baking powder lumps or salty pockets. It’s already smelling like pancakes in the making!
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a bit lumpy—just make sure everything is well combined. The rich buttermilk and fragrant vanilla set the foundation for a flavorful pancake taco.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Pour your wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until everything is just combined—it’s perfectly fine (and actually better) if the batter is a bit lumpy! Overmixing can make pancakes tough, and you want these Pancake Tacos to be as soft and tender as possible.
Step 4: Cook Your Pancake “Shells”
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or nonstick spray. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Let them cook until bubbles start to appear on the surface—usually around 2 minutes—then flip and continue for another 1 to 2 minutes until both sides are golden and the centers cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm while you prepare the rest.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pancake Tacos
Here comes the fun part! Gently fold each pancake in half to form your “taco shell.” Fill them generously with the fresh fruit of your choice, then spoon in a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt. For the finishing touch, drizzle everything with maple syrup. The combination is playful, colorful, and totally delectable.
How to Serve Pancake Tacos
Garnishes
Dress up your Pancake Tacos with a finishing flourish! Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like toasted almonds or pecans), or extra slices of fruit for color and crunch. A few fresh mint leaves also make them look beautifully brunch-worthy and add a burst of freshness.
Side Dishes
Pancake Tacos are fantastic served alongside crispy breakfast potatoes, smoky bacon, or savory breakfast sausage for a full brunch spread. A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt or a fresh fruit salad on the side can keep things bright and balanced, especially if you want a lighter touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving these for a special occasion? Set up a Pancake Tacos bar and let everyone build their own! Offer a variety of fillings—think nut butters, flavored yogurts, sprinkles, granola, or even a few chocolate chips. Arrange the tacos on a platter, propped like real tacos, for a showpiece brunch centerpiece that’s as eye-catching as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftover Pancake Tacos (lucky you!), store the pancakes and toppings separately to keep everything fresh. Pancakes can be layered between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the fridge, where they’ll stay soft for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooked pancakes (again, layered to prevent sticking) in freezer bags. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for about a month. Just thaw and fill when you’re ready for your Pancake Tacos fix! Hold off on adding fruit or cream until just before serving for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual pancakes in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm a batch in a 300°F oven wrapped in foil. They’ll come out soft and ready to fold. Avoid the toaster, since the pancakes are so soft they might not hold up. Once warm, fill and garnish for a fresh-tasting breakfast in minutes!
FAQs
Can I make Pancake Tacos gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free blend. The result will still be soft and delicious, especially with all those fresh toppings.
What’s the best way to keep Pancake Tacos warm for a crowd?
After each batch, place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet and keep in a low oven (around 200°F). This will ensure they stay warm and soft until you’re ready to assemble and serve.
Do Pancake Tacos work with savory fillings?
Definitely! Try filling them with scrambled eggs, cheese, or sautéed veggies for a savory twist. Skip the sugar and vanilla in the batter if you want a more neutral base for your savory creations.
How can I add more protein to Pancake Tacos?
Use Greek yogurt as your filling, or add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder directly to your pancake batter. You’ll get that extra boost without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I make mini Pancake Tacos for parties or kids?
Yes! Just use a tablespoon of batter for each “mini” pancake and cook as directed. These bite-size versions are adorable and perfect for brunch buffets, party platters, or little hands.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall in love with Pancake Tacos—they’re playful, family-friendly, and packed with possibilities. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or a fun weekend treat, they never fail to bring smiles to the table. Give this recipe a spin and see just how much joy a new spin on pancakes can bring!
Print
Pancake Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancake tacos 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic breakfast with these Pancake Tacos. Fill fluffy pancake ‘shells’ with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a fun and delicious morning treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Fillings:
- 1 cup assorted fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, and banana slices)
- 1/2 cup whipped cream or yogurt
- Maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Cook Pancakes: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake, cook until bubbles form, flip, and cook until golden.
- Assemble Tacos: Fold each pancake in half, fill with fruit, whipped cream or yogurt, and drizzle with maple syrup.
Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Notes
- For a protein boost, use Greek yogurt as the filling or add protein powder to the batter.
- Best served fresh and warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake taco
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg