There’s a certain joy that comes from flipping a stack of fluffy pancakes, and when they’re loaded with gooey cheese and fresh chives, it elevates breakfast to a whole new level. One lazy Sunday morning, I found myself craving something beyond the usual cereal, and a quick peek into my fridge revealed a glorious selection of ingredients waiting to collide in flavor.
These Cheese & Chive Pancakes might look like they belong in a fancy café, but the truth is, they’re incredibly easy to make at home. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can whip up a dish that not only impresses but also warms the soul. The combination of melted cheese and aromatic chives creates a savory treat that is perfect for brunch, lunch, or even dinner.
So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, join me in exploring this simple yet delightful recipe that promises to turn a regular meal into a memorable culinary experience!
Why are Cheese & Chive Pancakes irresistible?
Fluffy Texture: Each pancake is delightfully airy, giving you that perfect bite every time.
Savory Flavor: The melted cheese combined with fresh chives creates a burst of flavor that elevates your taste buds.
Quick & Easy: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy them savory with sour cream or sweet with honey – the choice is yours!
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress friends and family at brunch with these café-quality pancakes straight from your kitchen.
Homemade Goodness: Say goodbye to fast food; these pancakes are a wholesome, delicious option anyone can make!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Ingredients
Elevate your morning with these delightful pancakes!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – Essential for that fluffy texture; you can substitute with whole wheat for a healthier option.
- Baking powder – A must for the perfect rise; check its freshness for best results.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
- Large egg – Binds everything together; try a flaxseed egg for a vegan option.
- Milk – Adds moisture; use non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; olive oil works well if you’re going dairy-free.
For the Cheese & Chives
- Shredded cheese – Choose your favorite like cheddar or mozzarella for a savory burst in every bite.
- Fresh chives – Adds a pop of freshness; scallions or green onions can be used as a substitute.
- Garlic powder (optional) – Introduces a subtle flavor twist; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
How to Make Cheese & Chive Pancakes
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Mix until well combined for a solid pancake foundation.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg, milk, and melted butter together until smooth and creamy. This blend adds moisture and richness to your pancakes.
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Combine Cheese & Chives: Stir the shredded cheese and chopped chives into the wet mixture. This step introduces the flavor-packed heroes that make these pancakes irresistible!
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Combine Mixtures: Pour your wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix! If your batter feels a bit thick, add a splash of milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Heat Your Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greasing it with butter or oil. It’s essential to get this step right for perfect pancake cooking.
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Pour Batter: Scoop about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake, and let them cook until bubbles start forming on the surface, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
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Flip & Cook: Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Your kitchen will smell divine!
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Finish Cooking: Keep cooking pancakes, adding more butter or oil to the pan as needed, until all the batter is used. Stack them high on a plate to showcase your delicious creation.
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Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. It’s the final touch that adds that café feel to your home meal!
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Add Creaminess: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy finish that perfectly complements the savory flavors.
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Add Sweetness: Drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a sweet twist, if that tickles your fancy. It’s an unexpected delight!
Optional: Serve with a side of crispy bacon for the ultimate brunch experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful pancakes to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Herb Infusion: Try fresh dill or parsley instead of chives for a different herbal twist that provides a fresh flavor profile.
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Cheese Medley: Mix different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a more complex flavor that adds a gourmet touch.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the batter for a delightful heat that elevates the flavor experience.
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Veggie Boost: Fold in finely chopped spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and a burst of color—perfect for sneaking in those veggies!
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Buttermilk Base: Substitute milk with buttermilk for an ultra-fluffy texture, making each pancake even more irresistible on your plate.
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Sweet Twist: A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract can turn these savory pancakes into a sweet breakfast treat that’s comforting and unique.
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Savory Twist: Incorporate cooked bacon or sausage bits into the batter for a heartier pancake sure to satisfy any late-morning appetite!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese & Chive Pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combining them just before cooking to maintain that fluffy texture. To maintain quality, store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a gentle stir if it thickens overnight. Additionally, you can cook the pancakes in advance, let them cool, and then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet or toaster until warmed through, and you’ll enjoy delightful pancakes just like they were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes
Room Temperature: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 2 hours at room temperature, ideally covered with a clean cloth to keep them warm.
Fridge: Once cooled, keep your cheese & chive pancakes in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze individual pancakes separated by parchment paper in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To bring back the deliciousness, warm pancakes in a toaster or microwave. Use a touch of butter in a skillet for a freshly cooked taste!
Expert Tips for Cheese & Chive Pancakes
Use Fresh Chives: Fresh chives enhance the flavor significantly, so don’t substitute with dried ones. They make each bite brighter and tastier!
Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined; overmixing can result in dense pancakes. A few lumps are perfectly okay!
Watch the Heat: Keep your skillet at medium heat. Cooking too hot will brown the outside too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
Customize Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for unique flavors in your cheese & chive pancakes.
Thickness Check: If the batter seems too thick, a splash of milk will help adjust to your desired pancake thickness.
Pancake Stacking: Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish the batch. This keeps them fluffy and warm for serving!
What to Serve with Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Enhance your culinary experience by pairing these delicious pancakes with complementary sides and drinks.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon perfectly balances the savory pancakes, creating a classic combination that delights.
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Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese. The acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
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Roasted Tomatoes: Sweet, caramelized roasted tomatoes add a burst of flavor that pairs well with the savory notes of the pancakes, elevating the meal.
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Herbed Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of herbed Greek yogurt for a tangy and creamy element that harmonizes with the cheesy goodness. This contrast creates a luscious mouthfeel.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup introduces a sweet twist that enhances the flavors of the dish, making breakfast extra special.
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Fruit Compote: A homemade fruit compote brings fruity sweetness to the table, creating an inviting balance with the savory pancakes. A warm touch adds to the coziness.
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Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing glass of zesty lemonade brightens the palette, cutting through the richness for a well-rounded brunch experience.
Enjoy exploring these delightful pairings for a truly memorable meal!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chives?
Absolutely! When choosing chives, look for fresh, vibrant green stalks that are firm and free from dark spots. Avoid any that appear wilted or have yellowing leaves, as these can indicate aging. Fresh chives will bring a delightful flavor to your pancakes.
How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious Cheese & Chive Pancakes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat them in a skillet for a warm, fluffy treat!
Can I freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Yes, you can! For long-term storage, let the pancakes cool completely. Layer them between pieces of parchment paper in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in a toaster or on the skillet for that fresh-off-the-griddle taste!
What if my pancake batter is too thick?
Very good question! If your batter seems a bit thick, that’s no problem at all. Just add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, a slightly thicker batter can yield fluffier pancakes, so find the perfect balance according to your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! For those with dairy allergies, feel free to substitute with non-dairy milk and olive oil instead of butter. If you’re vegan, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a binding agent. Always check that your cheese is suitable for your dietary needs too!
What should I do if my pancakes are burning on the outside?
If you’re experiencing burnt pancakes, it’s likely your skillet is too hot. Turn the heat down and allow the skillet to cool for a minute before cooking another batch. Cooking at a consistent medium heat ensures your pancakes are golden brown on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside. Happy cooking!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes: Simple, Savory Delights to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder if you're using it. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg, milk, and melted butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Stir the shredded cheese and chopped chives into the wet mixture.
- Pour your wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined and adjust consistency with milk if needed.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greased with butter or oil.
- Scoop about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake and cook until bubbles form, about 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Continue cooking pancakes until all the batter is used, adding more butter or oil as needed.
- Sprinkle fresh chives on top before serving.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.