Cereal Pancakes
Cereal pancakes are an exciting twist on the classic breakfast favorite. Imagine fluffy pancakes infused with the sweet, cinnamon flavor of your favorite cereal. These delightful stacks are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. With a few simple ingredients, you can transform your morning routine into something special. So grab your skillet and let’s dive into the world of cereal pancakes!
Why This Cereal Pancakes Stands Out
What makes these cereal pancakes truly unique is the addition of slightly crushed cinnamon crunch cereal. This not only gives them a delightful crunch but also infuses each bite with rich, cinnamon goodness. The familiar flavor of cereal combined with the fluffiness of pancakes creates a nostalgic experience that will transport you back to your childhood breakfast table. Whether you enjoy them topped with syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of yogurt, these pancakes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create the perfect batch of cereal pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups slightly crushed cinnamon crunch cereal – Measure whole before crushing for the best texture.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of our pancake batter.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness to enhance the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps our pancakes rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – To amplify the cinnamon flavor in the pancakes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – A pinch to balance the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups Real California Milk – Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- 1/4 cup Real California unsalted butter – Melted, for that buttery flavor.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For a warm, inviting aroma.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – For the cinnamon sugar topping.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – To sprinkle over the pancakes for extra warmth.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls – For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk – To blend your pancake batter smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
- Skillet or griddle – A non-stick surface works best for cooking pancakes.
- Spatula – For flipping those pancakes to golden perfection.
- Serving plates – To display your delicious creations.
How to Prepare Cereal Pancakes
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your cereal pancakes:
Step 1: Prepare the Cereal
Start by measuring out 2 cups of cinnamon crunch cereal. Place it in a zip-top bag and crush it slightly with a rolling pin or your hands. You want some larger pieces for texture, so don’t crush it too finely.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Then, add the Real California milk, large egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Fold in the crushed cinnamon crunch cereal, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Preheat the Skillet
Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Cook the Pancakes
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
While the pancakes are cooking, mix 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Once the pancakes are cooked, sprinkle this mixture on top for a sweet finishing touch.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Stack the pancakes high on a serving plate and drizzle with syrup, fresh fruit, or yogurt. Dive into the deliciousness of your cereal pancakes!
Seasonal Spins
Get creative with seasonal variations! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Fall Delight: Add pumpkin puree and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a cozy autumn twist.
- Berry Bliss: Toss in fresh or frozen berries for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
- Nutty Banana: Slice bananas and fold them into the batter for a delicious banana pancake.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
- For the best texture, allow the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This helps the gluten relax.
- If you prefer a thicker pancake, reduce the milk slightly.
- Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste.
- These pancakes freeze well! Stack them with parchment paper between layers and store in an airtight container.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your cereal pancakes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them for up to 2 months. Just pop them in the toaster straight from the freezer for a quick and delicious meal!
Popular Questions
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your cereal is gluten-free as well.
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cereals, such as fruity or nutty varieties. Just adjust the sugar and cinnamon levels to complement the new flavors.
What toppings work best with these pancakes?
These pancakes are delicious topped with maple syrup, honey, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a nut butter drizzle. Get creative!
How can I make the pancakes dairy-free?
To make these pancakes dairy-free, substitute the Real California milk with a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
Desserts to Finish
If you’re still craving something sweet after your cereal pancakes, here are some delightful dessert ideas:
Let’s Eat
As you sit down with your plate of warm cereal pancakes, take a moment to appreciate the blend of flavors and textures. The sweet crunch of cinnamon cereal paired with the fluffy, warm pancakes creates a delightful breakfast experience. Whether enjoyed with family or savored alone, these pancakes are sure to brighten your day. So go ahead, indulge in a stack of cereal pancakes, and start your morning off right!
Cereal Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Cereal - Start by measuring out 2 cups of cinnamon crunch cereal. Place it in a zip-top bag and crush it slightly with a rolling pin or your hands. You want some larger pieces for texture, so don’t crush it too finely.
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
- Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Then, add the Real California milk, large egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Fold in the crushed cinnamon crunch cereal, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Step 5: Preheat the Skillet - Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 6: Cook the Pancakes - Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar - While the pancakes are cooking, mix 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Once the pancakes are cooked, sprinkle this mixture on top for a sweet finishing touch.
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy! - Stack the pancakes high on a serving plate and drizzle with syrup, fresh fruit, or yogurt. Dive into the deliciousness of your cereal pancakes!
Notes
- For the best texture, allow the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker pancake, reduce the milk slightly.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste.
- These pancakes freeze well! Stack with parchment paper between layers and store in an airtight container.
