Pancake mix is a versatile ingredient that can serve as the foundation for various delectable desserts. Often, when we think of pancake mix, the first image that comes to mind is a stack of fluffy pancakes drenched in maple syrup. However, pancake mix can be so much more than just a breakfast staple. With a bit of creativity and a few additional ingredients, pancake mix can be transformed into a myriad of mouth-watering desserts. This article will explore several dessert recipes you can make with pancake mix, providing a delicious twist to your usual dessert routine.
1. Pancake Mix Muffins
Muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Using pancake mix as the base, you can whip up a batch of muffins that are not only easy to make but also incredibly tasty.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup of your favorite mix-ins (chocolate chips, blueberries, nuts, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Fold in your choice of mix-ins.
- Fill the muffin liners about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Pancake Mix Cookies
Cookies made from pancake mix are a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. These cookies are soft, chewy, and can be customized with various add-ins.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or other mix-ins like raisins, nuts, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the pancake mix, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips or other mix-ins.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Pancake Mix Cheesecake Bars
Cheesecake bars are a rich and creamy dessert that can be made even easier with pancake mix. These bars have a delicious crust and a smooth cheesecake filling, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the pancake mix, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
4. Pancake Mix Crepes
Crepes are a thin and delicate dessert that can be filled with a variety of sweet fillings. Using pancake mix, you can easily create these elegant treats at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pancake mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan, tilting to spread it evenly.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the edges begin to lift and the bottom is lightly browned.
- Flip the crepe and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the crepe from the pan and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Fill the crepes with your favorite fillings, such as Nutella, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a combination of these.
SEE ALSO: Can I Use Mayo Instead of Butter for Grilled Cheese?
5. Pancake Mix Cake
A simple yet delicious cake can be made using pancake mix. This cake is perfect for any celebration or just as a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Frosting of your choice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pancake mix and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting with your choice of frosting.
6. Pancake Mix Donuts
Homemade donuts are a delightful treat, and with pancake mix, they are incredibly easy to make. These donuts can be baked or fried, depending on your preference.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (if frying)
- Cinnamon sugar or glaze for topping
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan. If frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- For baking: Spoon the batter into the donut pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. For frying: Roll the dough into balls or shape into donuts and
- carefully drop into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the donuts from the pan or oil and allow to cool slightly.
- Toss the warm donuts in cinnamon sugar or dip in your favorite glaze.
7. Pancake Mix Waffles
Waffles made from pancake mix are a classic treat that can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a perfect dessert option.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Toppings of your choice (whipped cream, fresh fruit, syrup, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron, spreading evenly.
- Cook according to the waffle iron’s instructions, typically 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the waffles from the iron and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Serve the waffles with your choice of toppings.
8. Pancake Mix Brownies
Brownies made from pancake mix are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to prepare. These brownies can be enjoyed on their own or topped with ice cream for an extra special treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, cocoa powder, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
9. Pancake Mix Fruit Cobbler
Fruit cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that can be easily made with pancake mix. This recipe can be adapted to use any seasonal or frozen fruit you have on hand.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen fruit (such as peaches, berries, or apples)
- 1 cup sugar (divided)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the fruit, 1/2 cup sugar, and cornstarch. Mix until the fruit is evenly coated.
- Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the fruit mixture, spreading gently to cover.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, pancake mix is not just for making pancakes. It can be a convenient and versatile ingredient for creating a variety of delicious desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for muffins, cookies, cheesecake bars, crepes, cake, donuts, waffles, brownies, or fruit cobbler, pancake mix can be your go-to base. The recipes provided here are just a starting point; feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and add-ins to suit your taste preferences. With pancake mix in your pantry, the possibilities for delightful desserts are endless.
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