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Grab and Go Breakfast Pancakes Kids Love – Soft Filled Pancake Poppers-thumbnail

Grab-and-Go Pancake Poppers

These pancake poppers are fluffy, bite-sized breakfast treats made from simple pancake batter and baked in a mini muffin pan. Lightly sweet and easy to customize with chocolate chips or fruit, they’re perfect for dipping in syrup or enjoying on the go. Quick to prepare and kid-approved, they’re ideal for busy mornings, snacks, or a fun weekend breakfast everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients Breakdown
  • Getting great pancake poppers starts with properly measured ingredients. Accuracy matters here—it’s the difference between fluffy bites and dense ones. You’ll find exact quantities in the printable recipe card but here’s what each ingredient brings to the table:
  • All-purpose flour: Forms the base and gives the poppers structure. Spoon it into your cup and level it off to keep things light.
  • Granulated sugar: Adds gentle sweetness without turning breakfast into dessert.
  • Baking powder: This is what makes the poppers rise and stay airy—make sure it’s fresh.
  • Salt: A small amount sharpens and balances the flavors.
  • Milk: Creates a smooth moist batter. Whole milk works beautifully, but plant-based options are fine.
  • Egg: Holds everything together and adds softness. Let it come to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Butter melted: Adds richness and keeps the texture tender.
  • Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.

Equipment

  • Here are the tools you need to make these poppers:
  • Mini muffin pan: The key to achieving perfectly bite-sized pancake poppers.
  • Two mixing bowls: One for dry ingredients, one for wet—this keeps the batter smooth.
  • Whisk: Ideal for blending without overworking the batter.
  • Measuring tools: Precision ensures consistent results every time.
  • Cooling rack: Helps excess heat escape so poppers don’t turn soggy.
  • Pastry brush or paper towel: For evenly greasing the pan without pooling butter.

Method
 

Heat the oven and prep the pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease the mini muffin pan—melted butter works best for easy release.

    Combine dry ingredients

    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

      Mix the wet ingredients

      In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. Make sure the butter has cooled slightly.

        Bring it together

        Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.

          Fill the muffin pan

          Spoon batter into each cavity, filling them about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.

            Bake Them

            Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and spring back when touched.

              Cool and enjoy

              Let the poppers rest in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Serve warm.

                Notes

                Serving Ideas

                 

                Flavor Enhancements

                These poppers taste great straight from the oven, but toppings make them shine. Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or add a dollop of sweetened yogurt. Nut butters, cinnamon sugar, or honey also work beautifully.

                What to Serve Alongside

                Round out breakfast with fresh fruit, smoothies, or yogurt. Coffee pairs especially well, but tea lovers will enjoy them with a mild herbal or citrus blend.

                Presentation Tips

                Hosting brunch? Stack poppers on a serving tray with small bowls of toppings. For gifting, arrange them in lined boxes. Want something playful? Thread them onto skewers with berries for easy sharing.

                Variations & Simple Substitutions

                • Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version
                • Stir in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts
                • Add blueberries or banana pieces for fruity pops
                • Swap part of the flour for whole wheat for a heartier texture
                • Replace sugar with maple syrup or honey
                • Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note

                Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

                • Store cooled poppers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature
                • Freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed freezer bag
                • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes for best texture
                • Microwave for 20–30 seconds if needed
                • Batter can be made a day ahead and kept chilled until baking

                Frequently Asked Questions

                Can I use a regular muffin pan?
                Yes, but expect longer baking time and a slightly different texture.
                Why did mine turn out dense?
                Overmixing is usually the culprit. Stir gently and stop early.
                Are mix-ins okay?
                Absolutely—just keep them small and don’t overload the batter.
                How do I prevent sticking?
                Grease thoroughly and let poppers cool briefly before removing.
                Are these good for kids?
                Yes! The small size and soft texture make them a favorite with little eaters.