The Great Family Pancake Challenge
Pancakes have long been an American breakfast staple, but guest poster and California Cavalier Dad on the Street Willis Robertson has transformed the act of making pancakes into an art form. Read on to learn more about his great family pancake challenge.
Jump to RecipeThe Art of Pancake
Our family loves to make pancakes. Maybe it’s because we put mini-chocolate chips in them or maybe it’s because we like to make pancake art. Historically, our pancakes have been a simple Mickey Mouse or a snowman, but with COVID-19 raging around us we’ve had to resort to some desperate measures. While some assume it’s for the kids’ entertainment, in reality, it’s for me. Of course, it’s fun to see my child’s face light up when I make an incredible garbage truck or Peppa Pig in pancake form, but ultimately I’m selfish and in this world, with no sports, it’s nice to know…” I’ve still got it.”
No, I’m not competing on the field (or even watching others compete), I’m competing in the kitchen. I’m sending photos to my friends and bragging about my unicorn pancake skills – and yes, I’m making my kids happy.
**Our pancake art skills have evolved. We’ve elevated from simply hoping for the best with a 1/2 cup drip to using squirt bottles or an old ketchup bottle to help with the precision of the art. Start with low heat to give yourself some time, and once the details are complete, turn the heat up. For different colors, pour the details first (eyes, hair, mouth, etc.) let them cook a bit, and then fill in the rest of the pancake – body, etc. When you flip the smaller details should be a darker color because they cooked longer. I’ve seen others use food coloring, but that seems like way too much work…and my kids don’t know that’s an option.
Go get ‘em!
Signature Pancakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp white sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
Signature Pancakes
- In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients of flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
- In the center of the mix, pour in the wet ingredients of milk, egg, and oil. Mix together until consistent.
- Heat a lightly oiled (or non-stick) frying pan or skillet, or griddle, over medium-high heat. Pour the batter onto the frying pan. Using around 1/4 cup for each pancake.
- Let pancakes cook until lightly brown, flipping when each side is done.
Nutrition
Extra Family Pancake Challenge Tips
- While this is a great pancake recipe, you can use any type of pancake recipe you want for the challenge! Many people prefer to use a mix out of a box and just add water, egg, melted butter, or oil. If that’s you, go for it!
- Also, if you love pancakes, but have dietary issues, you can sub out regular flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- When it comes to getting the right consistency for your mix, less is more! Don’t overmix your batter, whichever kind you choose!
- You can switch things up by topping your pancakes with maple syrup, whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fruit. You can use your toppings to create beautiful art, or just add a little color to the plate with some delicious fruit.
What’s your favorite way to make pancakes? Do you like to make pancake art, or are you lucky to get some batter on the skillet? Let us know in the comments or face off with your friends and family on your favorite family app!
