Pin it Fluffy, bite-sized pancake balls infused with warm cinnamon, rich maple syrup, and a hint of bourbon. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they bring cozy flavors to your morning.
I first made these pancake balls for a weekend brunch with friends. Their golden coating and sweet aroma won everyone over instantly.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (180 g)
- Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 1/2 tsp
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Large eggs: 2
- Unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing): 2 tbsp
- Pure maple syrup: 2 tbsp
- Bourbon: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Melted butter (for brushing): 2 tbsp
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Maple syrup: For serving
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, maple syrup, bourbon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Blend batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix. A few lumps are fine.
- Preheat pan:
- Preheat an aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker over medium heat. Grease each cavity lightly with butter.
- Cook pancake balls:
- Fill each cavity about 3/4 full with batter. Cook for 2&3 minutes until bubbles form and edges begin to set.
- Turn and finish cooking:
- Use a skewer or fork to turn each ball. Cook for another 2&3 minutes until golden and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing as needed.
- Coat and serve:
- Mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1 tsp cinnamon in a bowl. Brush each pancake ball with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve warm with extra maple syrup for dipping.
Pin it My kids love helping roll each pancake ball in cinnamon sugar. It turns breakfast into a fun family project we look forward to every weekend.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker, pastry brush, small fork or skewer
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, and butter. If using bourbon, check the label for allergens. Always verify ingredient labels if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 6 balls): 280 calories, 10 g total fat, 39 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein
Pin it These pancake balls are irresistible served warm. Enjoy with maple syrup and your favorite breakfast sides for a cozy start to the day.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these without bourbon?
Yes, simply omit the bourbon and add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup for sweetness and flavor.
- → Which pan works best for pancake balls?
An aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker creates the classic round shape and cooks evenly on all sides.
- → How do I prevent sticking?
Lightly grease each cavity of the pan with melted butter before adding the batter to prevent sticking.
- → Are there filling variations?
Try placing cream cheese or apple cubes in the center before cooking for a tasty surprise inside each ball.
- → Can I make these ahead?
They can be made ahead and reheated briefly. Serve with warm maple syrup for best flavor and texture.
- → What sides pair well?
Crispy bacon, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream complement the pancake balls wonderfully for brunch.