I still remember my first morning experimenting in the kitchen, trying to whip up something sweet that everyone would love. That’s how these chocolate pancakes were born—simple, fluffy, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe is family-friendly, customizable, and quick to make. Whether you want 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes or a rich, chocolatey stack with cocoa powder, you’ll fall in love with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolate pancakes are one of those irresistible treats that make breakfast, brunch, or even dessert feel special. Whether you’re looking for simple chocolate pancakes to whip up in minutes or a richer version with cocoa powder and chocolate chips, this recipe delivers every time. Fluffy chocolate pancakes cook quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or weeknight breakfasts, while chocolate pancakes with pancake mix keep things easy and convenient.
What makes these chocolate pancakes truly amazing is how versatile they are. You can make 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes for a quick snack, chocolate pancakes with protein for a healthy boost, or chocolate pancakes with cocoa powder for a deep, indulgent flavor. Chocolate pancakes are also family-friendly, allowing everyone to add their favorite toppings like syrup, berries, or whipped cream. With easy chocolate pancakes that are soft, moist, and perfectly chocolaty, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for a satisfying, comforting start to the day.
Ingredients for This Recipe
The ingredients for these chocolate pancakes are simple, versatile, and designed to make the perfect stack every time. Pancake mix forms the base for fluffy chocolate pancakes, while unsweetened cocoa powder adds rich chocolate flavor. Eggs and milk provide structure and moisture, creating soft, tender pancakes that melt in your mouth. A touch of sugar enhances sweetness, and vegetable oil or melted butter keeps the texture light and moist. Chocolate chips are optional but take these chocolate pancakes to the next level for an indulgent treat.
For serving and decoration, classic toppings like maple syrup or chocolate syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream allow you to customize your chocolate pancakes to suit your taste. Powdered sugar adds a finishing touch, making these easy chocolate pancakes look as good as they taste. Whether you’re making 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes or full chocolate pancakes with pancake mix, these ingredients create a delicious, family-friendly breakfast everyone will enjoy.

🛒 Ingredients (for 4–6 pancakes):
For the Pancakes:
1 cup all-purpose pancake mix
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 large egg
½ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
¼ cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey pancakes)
For Serving/Decoration:
Maple syrup or chocolate syrup
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
Whipped cream (optional)
Powdered sugar (optional)
How to Make This Recipe
Making chocolate pancakes is quick, easy, and perfect for any morning or brunch. Start by preparing the batter with pancake mix, unsweetened cocoa powder, eggs, and milk to create rich, fluffy chocolate pancakes that melt in your mouth. Adding a touch of sugar and oil or melted butter ensures each pancake is soft, tender, and perfectly chocolaty. For an extra indulgent touch, fold in chocolate chips to make chocolate pancakes even more irresistible.
When cooking, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour a portion of the batter to form individual pancakes and cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip carefully to cook the other side until golden brown. Serve your chocolate pancakes with maple syrup, chocolate syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for a customizable breakfast experience. Whether you are making 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes, chocolate pancakes with cocoa powder, or protein-packed chocolate pancakes, this recipe delivers fluffy, rich, and easy-to-make chocolate pancakes every time.
🛒 Steps:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together pancake mix and unsweetened cocoa powder.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add milk and oil or melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
- Pour ¼ cup batter for each pancake; cook until bubbles form and edges are set, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip pancakes carefully and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve chocolate pancakes warm with maple syrup, chocolate syrup, berries, or whipped cream.

Expert Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect chocolate pancakes requires more than just mixing ingredients; understanding how each element works will take your pancakes to the next level. The pancake mix provides structure, while cocoa powder gives rich chocolate flavor. Eggs and milk keep the pancakes moist and fluffy, and oil or melted butter ensures a tender texture. Chocolate chips can be added for extra indulgence, making these chocolate pancakes even more decadent. With the right technique, your chocolate pancakes will be soft, airy, and delicious every time.
Timing and heat control are key for flawless chocolate pancakes. Overmixing the batter can make the pancakes dense, while undercooking will leave the center raw. Using a non-stick skillet or lightly greased griddle helps prevent sticking, and flipping the pancakes only once ensures they stay fluffy. Whether you’re making simple chocolate pancakes, 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes, or chocolate pancakes with protein, following these expert tips guarantees perfectly cooked, rich, and indulgent chocolate pancakes for every occasion.
💡 Expert Tips:
- Do not overmix the pancake batter; lumps are okay for fluffy chocolate pancakes.
- Use medium heat on a non-stick skillet to cook chocolate pancakes evenly.
- Add chocolate chips last and fold gently into the batter for melty pockets.
- Flip pancakes only once when bubbles form and edges look set.
- Use milk or dairy-free alternatives for tender, soft chocolate pancakes.
- For protein chocolate pancakes, mix in chocolate protein powder without overmixing.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while finishing the batch.
- Customize toppings: syrup, berries, whipped cream, or powdered sugar elevate chocolate pancakes beautifully.

FAQs
What are 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes?
3-ingredient chocolate pancakes are a quick and easy version using just eggs, pancake mix, and cocoa powder. They are perfect for busy mornings and still deliver soft, fluffy, and rich chocolate pancakes without extra fuss.
How can I make chocolate pancakes fluffy?
To make chocolate pancakes fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter, use pancake mix with baking powder, and cook on medium heat. Adding milk or yogurt can help achieve extra light and airy chocolate pancakes every time.
Are chocolate pancakes healthy?
Chocolate pancakes can be made healthier by using protein powder, whole-grain pancake mix, or low-sugar cocoa powder. Chocolate pancakes with protein are a great option for a balanced breakfast while still enjoying the chocolate flavor.
Where can I find chocolate pancakes near me?
Many cafes and breakfast spots serve chocolate pancakes. Search online for “chocolate pancakes near me” to find local restaurants, pancake houses, or family-friendly brunch spots that offer fluffy chocolate pancakes or chocolate pancakes with pancake mix.
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Chocolate pancakes are a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option that everyone will love. Whether you are making simple chocolate pancakes, 3-ingredient chocolate pancakes, or chocolate pancakes with cocoa powder, this recipe delivers fluffy, rich, and indulgent results every time. Perfect for busy mornings, family breakfasts, or special occasions, these chocolate pancakes can be customized with syrup, berries, whipped cream, or chocolate chips. Try this chocolate pancakes recipe today and enjoy a quick, comforting, and chocolaty start to your day.
Print
Chocolate Pancakes
- Total Time: 15–20 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 pancakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy, rich chocolate pancakes that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime. These pancakes can be made simply with pancake mix and cocoa powder or upgraded with protein or healthy ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence. Top with chocolate chips, syrup, or fresh berries for extra decadence.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for 4–6 pancakes):
For the Pancakes:
1 cup all-purpose pancake mix
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 large egg
½ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
¼ cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey pancakes)
For Serving/Decoration:
Maple syrup or chocolate syrup
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
Whipped cream (optional)
Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together pancake mix, cocoa powder, and sugar (if using). In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add milk and oil/butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Fold in chocolate chips if desired.
Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease. Pour ¼ cup batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set (about 2–3 minutes). Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 3: Serve
Stack pancakes on a plate, drizzle with syrup or chocolate sauce, and top with berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Fluffy Pancakes: Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay.
- Protein Boost: Add 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder to make it a high-protein breakfast.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter the night before for a quick morning meal.
- Extra Chocolatey: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top while cooking for melty pockets of chocolate.
- Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch / Dessert
- Method: Pan-fried / Quick Cook
- Cuisine: American
