Fluffy Tiramisu Pancakes: Dessert for Breakfast, Because Why Not?
Intro: Because Who Needs a Reason for Dessert at Breakfast?
Ever had one of those mornings where your coffee just isn’t cutting it, and your toast is giving major “meh” vibes? Yeah, same. So, I thought, why not combine the two best things in life: coffee and dessert? Enter Tiramisu Pancakes—the breakfast that says, “I’m fancy, but I still wear pajamas until noon.”
Why This Recipe Is Awesome (Like, Really Awesome)
These pancakes are the culinary equivalent of a mic drop. Fluffy, coffee-infused stacks layered with creamy mascarpone and dusted with cocoa powder. It’s like your favorite Italian dessert decided to crash your brunch party—and brought mimosas.
- Flavor Explosion: Rich espresso, sweet mascarpone, and a hint of cocoa. Need I say more?
- Impress Your Friends: Serve these, and suddenly you’re the brunch MVP.
- Easy Peasy: No culinary degree required. If you can flip a pancake, you can make these.
Ingredients: The Dream Team
Pancakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1½ cups buttermilk
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- 2 tsp coffee extract (or vanilla if you’re basic)
- 2 eggs
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup finely chopped dark chocolate
Mascarpone Filling:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Toppings:
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Maple syrup (optional, but why not?)
Substitutions:
- No buttermilk? Mix 1½ cups milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
- Can’t find mascarpone? Cream cheese works in a pinch.
Tools & Kitchen Gadgets Used
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Electric mixer (for the filling)
- Sifter (for that cocoa powder snow)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Flippin’
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine buttermilk, brewed coffee, coffee extract, eggs, and melted butter.
- Combine: Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined. Lumps? Totally fine.
- Add Chocolate: Fold in chopped dark chocolate. Because life is better with chocolate.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat your skillet over medium heat. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form, flip, and cook until golden.
- Make Filling: Beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble: Stack pancakes, spreading mascarpone filling between each layer.
- Top It Off: Dust with cocoa powder and drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
Calories & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~610
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 38g
- Protein: 24g
Note: These are estimates. Actual values may vary based on ingredients used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: Leads to tough pancakes. Mix until just combined.
- High Heat Cooking: Burnt outside, raw inside. Medium heat is your friend.
- Skipping the Rest: Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes for fluffier pancakes.
- Using Cold Mascarpone: Room temperature is key for a smooth filling.
Variations & Customizations
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour and a sugar substitute.
- Boozy Brunch: Add a splash of Kahlua or Baileys to the batter.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan cream cheese.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Stir before using.
Q2: Can I freeze these pancakes?
A: Absolutely. Stack with parchment paper between, freeze, and reheat in the toaster.
Q3: What can I use instead of mascarpone?
A: Cream cheese is a good substitute, though it has a tangier flavor.
Q4: How strong should the coffee be?
A: Brew it strong—think espresso-level. It’s the star flavor here.
Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Q6: How do I prevent pancakes from sticking?
A: Use a non-stick skillet and a bit of butter or oil.
Q7: Can I add toppings?
A: Go wild! Chocolate chips, whipped cream, or fresh berries are great additions.
Final Thoughts: Breakfast Just Got a Glow-Up
So there you have it—Tiramisu Pancakes that are as indulgent as they are Instagram-worthy. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself (because you deserve it), these pancakes are a game-changer. Now, go forth and flip!
