As I flipped my first pancake, the delightful hiss of cheese melting combined with the subtle aroma of fresh chives filled my kitchen. These Cheese & Chive Pancakes are not just breakfast; they’re a scrumptious remedy for anyone tired of the usual fast food fare. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a quick snack, this recipe is a breeze to whip up in under 30 minutes, leaving you with fluffy pancakes that make your taste buds sing. Whether you stick to classic cheddar or get creative with your favorite cheeses, there’s so much joy in customizing these savory delights. Ready to elevate your pancake game? Let’s dive into the magic of these easy, mouthwatering treats!
Why are Cheese & Chive Pancakes a Must-Try?
Fluffy Delight: These pancakes promise a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will redefine your breakfast routine.
Quick & Easy: Make a flavorful meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or surprising guests at brunch.
Customizable Creations: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs, making each batch a unique and exciting dish.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at gatherings or family meals, and watch everyone come back for seconds and thirds—there’s nothing quite like the aroma of cheese and herbs filling the air!
For a sweet yet savory contrast, try them alongside a Mango Coconut Cheesecake for dessert. Embrace the joy of cooking and make these Cheese & Chive Pancakes your new go-to recipe!
Cheese & Chive Pancake Ingredients
For the Batter
• 1 cup self-raising flour – Provides structure and fluffiness; substitute with all-purpose flour plus 1 tsp baking powder for a similar result.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor; feel free to use kosher or sea salt.
• 1 cup milk – Adds moisture and richness; whole milk is preferred, but low-fat or plant-based options work beautifully too.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binder; for a vegan version, substitute with a flax egg.
For the Cheese
• 1 cup mature cheddar cheese, grated – Offers a savory, cheesy flavor; Gruyère or non-dairy cheese can be great alternatives.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Provides additional depth of flavor; simply omit for a dairy-free version.
For the Chives
• 1 bunch chives, chopped – Introduces fresh, onion-like notes; consider substituting with green onions or shallots for a delightful twist.
For Cooking
• 2 tablespoons butter and oil mixture – Perfect for cooking pancakes and enhancing the overall flavor.
Get ready to create these scrumptious Cheese & Chive Pancakes that are sure to become a beloved addition to your cooking repertoire!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese & Chive Pancakes
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a spacious mixing bowl, sift together 1 cup of self-raising flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to ensure a light texture. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1 large egg until combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. Finally, fold in 1 cup of grated mature cheddar cheese and the chopped chives for a burst of flavor.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat and allow it to warm up for a couple of minutes. While the pan heats, combine 2 tablespoons of butter and a splash of oil in a small saucepan over low heat until melted. Pour this flavorful mixture onto the griddle, ensuring the surface is well-greased to prevent sticking while cooking the Cheese & Chive Pancakes.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Using a tablespoon, drop dollops of batter onto the hot, greased pan, leaving some space between each pancake. Cook for about 2.5 minutes or until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges appear set. Gently flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook for an additional 2 to 2.5 minutes, watching for a golden-brown color and fluffy texture.
Step 4: Keep Warm
Once cooked, carefully transfer the Cheese & Chive Pancakes to a clean tea towel or a plate. Cover them lightly to retain warmth while you continue cooking the remaining batter. The gentle steam will help keep the pancakes soft and ready to serve, ensuring they maintain that delicious fluffiness.
Step 5: Optional Serving
For a delightful finishing touch, serve your Cheese & Chive Pancakes with a pat of butter on top and a sprinkle of additional grated cheese. If you’re feeling creative, consider adding sides like crispy bacon, poached eggs, or fresh avocado slices to elevate your savory meal even further. Enjoy these pancakes fresh off the griddle for the best flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes
Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist.
Freezer: Freeze pancakes individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Place them in a zip-top bag for extra protection against freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, preserving the fluffy texture of your Cheese & Chive Pancakes.
Make-Ahead: Batter can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, saving you time on busy mornings!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese & Chive Pancakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness even on the busiest mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; just mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This keeps everything fresh and ready to cook whenever hunger strikes. Additionally, you can make the pancakes ahead of time and refrigerate them for 2-3 days, or freeze them for longer storage (up to 2 months). To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or pop them in the toaster for a quick fix before serving. Enjoy delicious, fluffy Cheese & Chive Pancakes with minimal effort, all while saving precious time during your week!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Customization
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt these pancakes to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Herb Swap: Trade chives for fresh dill or parsley to change the flavor profile. Each herb brings a unique twist, elevating the pancakes.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg to make these pancakes completely vegan-friendly, ensuring no one misses out on the fun.
- Zesty Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. It adds just the right amount of spice that complements the cheesy goodness.
- Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for something tangy. Each choice offers a delightful surprise that keeps breakfast exciting.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the batter for an extra dose of veggies. This not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant color.
- Sweet Surprise: For a sweet-twist option, mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. It’s an unexpected contrast that makes these pancakes even more delightful when paired with a side of Dulce Leche Cheesecake for dessert.
- Nutty Finish: Consider adding chopped nuts, like walnuts, for added crunch and a satisfying texture. This will elevate your pancake game to gourmet levels.
Whether you mix and match or stick to the basics, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these Cheese & Chive Pancakes!
What to Serve with Cheese & Chive Pancakes
Elevate your cheese and chive pancake experience with these delightful pairings that will create a memorable meal.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon adds a satisfying contrast to the fluffy pancakes, making each bite a savory delight.
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Poached Eggs: A runny yolk provides a rich, creamy element that perfectly complements the cheesy flavors in your pancakes.
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Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness, enhancing the meal’s overall freshness.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess, elevating the pancakes’ flavor profile and offering a creamy texture.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the savory cheese and herbs.
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Sparkling Cider: The effervescent nature of sparkling cider refreshes the palate and enhances the savory elements of your meal.
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Fruit Compote: A sweet, fruity compote adds a surprising contrast, making for a whimsical blend of flavors and textures on your plate.
Embrace the joy of creating memorable meals with these delicious pairings that complement your Cheese & Chive Pancakes!
Expert Tips for Cheese & Chive Pancakes
Pan Temperature Matters: Ensure your pan is properly heated before adding batter to avoid soggy pancakes. A medium-high heat is ideal for a crispy exterior.
Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter; fold until just combined for fluffy Cheese & Chive Pancakes. Too much mixing can lead to dense pancakes.
Customize Wisely: Experiment with different cheeses or herbs, but keep moisture levels in mind; too much liquid can lead to pancake failure.
Flipping Technique: Use a spatula to gently flip only when bubbles form and edges set, ensuring even cooking and perfect fluffiness.
Storage Savvy: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet to maintain texture.
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Recipe FAQs
What type of cheese works best for Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Absolutely! Mature cheddar is fantastic for these pancakes as it provides a bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, feta, or even a dairy-free variety. Just be mindful of the moisture content; too much can affect the batter’s consistency.
How should I store leftover Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy them on busy mornings or as a quick snack. If you’re looking to keep them longer, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the pancakes to cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What should I do if my pancake batter is too thick?
If your batter turns out too thick, don’t worry! Just gradually add a little more milk—1 tablespoon at a time—until you reach the desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but not runny. Mixing too vigorously can toughen the pancakes, so stir gently until just combined.
Can I make Cheese & Chive Pancakes vegan?
Very! To make these pancakes vegan, simply substitute the egg with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 10 minutes). Additionally, choose a plant-based milk and non-dairy cheese options.
How can I tell when my pancakes are done cooking?
Look for bubbles to form on the surface of your pancakes and for the edges to appear set—this usually takes about 2.5 minutes per side. When you flip them, they should be golden brown and fluffy. If you’re hesitant, cut one open; it should be fully cooked through without any wet batter inside. Enjoy the process!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes: Fluffy Savory Delights Await
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, sift together self-raising flour and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry mix, stirring gently. Fold in grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Melt butter and oil mixture in a small saucepan. Pour onto the hot pan to grease it.
- Drop dollops of batter onto the greased pan, leaving space between. Cook for about 2.5 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 2 to 2.5 minutes until golden-brown.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a tea towel to keep warm while cooking the remaining batter.
- Optional: Serve pancakes with a pat of butter, grated cheese, and sides like crispy bacon or poached eggs.