Name: Irresistible Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts for Breakfast Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups pancake mix (A convenient shortcut for the donut base.); 1 cup mini chocolate chips (Feel free to substitute with regular chocolate chips.); 1 large egg (Adds richness and binds ingredients.); 1 cup milk (Any milk or milk alternative works.); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (Can be replaced with melted butter.); Powdered Sugar for dusting (Adds sweetness.); Maple Syrup for serving (Elevates flavor.); Fresh Fruit sliced strawberries or bananas (Adds freshness.)

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the aroma of warm pancakes drifting through the house, isn’t there? If you’re ready to elevate your breakfast game, these Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts are a delightful way to do just that! They combine the beloved fluffy texture of pancakes with a sweet donut twist, making them a sure hit with both kids and adults alike. Not only are they quick to whip up—taking less than 30 minutes—but they offer the joyful surprise of gooey chocolate chips that melt in your mouth. So, why not treat your family to something a little extraordinary tomorrow morning? Let’s dive into this easy recipe and bring a smile to your breakfast table!

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Why are Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: These delectable beauties come together in less than 30 minutes, making them a hassle-free breakfast option.

Kid-Friendly Fun: With gooey chocolate chips and a fun donut shape, they’re sure to please picky eaters and turn breakfast into a joyous occasion.

Fluffy Texture: Enjoy the light, fluffy goodness reminiscent of your favorite pancakes, now in a delightful donut form!

Versatile Treat: Customize your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts by experimenting with different pancake mixes or adding toppings like fresh fruit or sprinkles for extra flair.

Feel free to store some for later—these treats hold up beautifully, allowing for quick breakfasts on busy mornings. Or, if you love the chocolatey goodness, check out our Giant Chocolate Chip or Chocolate Sorbet Discover recipes for more indulgent options!

Chocolate Chip Pancake Donut Ingredients

For the Donut Batter

Pancake Mix – A convenient shortcut that provides the base structure for our delightful Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Bringing sweet, chocolatey goodness to every bite; feel free to swap with regular chocolate chips or your favorite mix-ins like nuts or fruit.
Egg – Adds richness and binds the ingredients together for that delightful fluffiness.
Milk – Helps to achieve the perfect batter consistency; any milk or milk alternative works well.
Vegetable Oil – Ensures moist donuts; can be replaced with melted butter for added flavor.

Optional Toppings

Powdered Sugar – A dusting brings a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation to your donuts.
Maple Syrup – Serve warm for dipping, elevating the flavor profile to a whole new level of breakfast bliss.
Fresh Fruit – Sliced strawberries or bananas add a refreshing contrast to the rich, chocolatey donuts.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab your two donut pans and generously grease them with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the donuts come out easily once baked. You’ll be ready to create a delightful breakfast treat that your whole family will love!

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the pancake mix according to the package instructions, adding in the required egg, milk, and vegetable oil. Stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix as this will keep your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts light and fluffy. You want a smooth batter free of large lumps.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips
Next, fold in the mini chocolate chips into your batter until they’re evenly distributed. This step is where the magic happens, as those sweet pockets of chocolate will melt beautifully while baking. The anticipation builds as you imagine biting into these flavorful donuts!

Step 4: Fill the Piping Bag
Once your batter is ready, transfer it into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. This method ensures neat and effortless pouring into your donut pans. Take care to create a clean flow of batter, preparing to fill each donut cavity without any mess.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pans
Carefully fill each cavity of the greased donut pans with the batter, stopping just below the rim to allow space for rising. Doing this will help achieve perfectly shaped Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts. Once filled, give the pans a gentle tap on the counter to remove any air bubbles trapped in the batter.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the filled donut pans in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they spring back softly when pressed and turn a lovely golden brown. The enticing aroma of chocolate begins to fill your kitchen—how wonderful!

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the donut pans from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Gently wiggle the donuts out of the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. This is the moment to admire your beautiful Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts before serving!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
These delightful pancake donuts are best enjoyed warm. You can dust them with powdered sugar, add a drizzle of maple syrup, or even serve them with fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing twist. Gather your family and relish in the joy of homemade treats that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

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Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts

Room Temperature: Store your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and fluffy without the need for refrigeration.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat a donut in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore that soft, warm texture. Perfect for a quick breakfast treat!

Thawing: If frozen, let the donuts thaw in the fridge overnight for the best taste, or enjoy them directly from the microwave for a warm chocolatey delight!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped in advance to save you time during the week! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours ahead; simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to keep the chocolate chips from sinking. Additionally, you can bake the donuts in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the frozen donuts in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, and you’ll have fresh, delightful breakfast treats with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts

Stick-Free Pans: Generously grease your donut pans to prevent sticking; no one wants a donut mishap when they add a delicious twist to breakfast!
Mix Caution: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients. A few lumps are fine and crucial for keeping your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts fluffy.
Even Chocolate Distribution: Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to ensure an even spread throughout the batter; this will create pockets of gooey goodness in each bite!
Bake Time Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your donuts as they bake. When they spring back to touch, they’re ready—check early to avoid dryness!
Storage Savvy: For leftovers, store your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts in an airtight container. They last for up to 2 days at room temperature or can be frozen for quick breakfasts later on.

Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious twists on Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pancake mix to make these delightful treats suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Your family won’t even notice the difference!
Fruit-Filled: Add ½ cup of diced strawberries or blueberries to the batter for fruity bursts of flavor in each bite. Their freshness creates a wonderful contrast to the richness of chocolate.
Nutty Delight: Stir in ¼ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor. This gives a hearty texture that perfectly complements the softness of the donuts.
Cocoa Infusion: Mix 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the pancake mix for a chocolate lover’s dream come true! These are chocolatey pancakes in every way, and they take your treat to a whole new level.
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor. It adds a delightful twist that’s fantastic, especially in the fall!
Maple Drizzle: For an extra layer of sweetness, drizzle warm maple syrup on top before serving. The syrup’s flavor mingles beautifully for a mouthwatering experience.
Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free chocolate chip for a vegan-friendly option. Dessert doesn’t get happier than this!
Baked Versus Fried: Try frying these in oil instead of baking for a different taste and texture. Just ensure to monitor the heat—golden brown is the way to go!

With these variations, your breakfast will never be boring. If you’re looking for more chocolatey inspiration, check out our Banana Chocolate Chip or Chocolate Chip Banana recipes!

What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts

What better way to complement these delightful treats than with some scrumptious sides and drinks?

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries and blueberries balances the rich sweetness of the donuts, adding a refreshing pop of flavor to your breakfast.
Maple Syrup: A classic partner to pancakes, the warm, sticky goodness of maple syrup enhances the chocolatey flavor while adding a sweet dipping option.
Crispy Bacon: The salty, savory crunch of bacon creates an irresistible contrast to the fluffy, sweet donuts, making every bite a delightful experience.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruits for a light and nutritious side that complements the indulgence of the donuts.
Hot Chocolate: Wrap your hands around a warm cup of hot chocolate; its chocolatey richness pairs beautifully with the sweet delight of pancake donuts.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top or on the side can add a delightful creaminess, making breakfast feel even more indulgent.
Coffee: A steaming cup of your favorite coffee perfectly balances the sweetness with a rich, robust flavor that rounds out your morning.
Sweetened Cream Cheese: A spread of sweetened cream cheese adds a tangy sweetness that enhances the overall taste experience of your pancakes.
Bananas: Slices of fresh banana add a lovely texture and mild sweetness, providing a wholesome addition that pairs nicely with chocolate.

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Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of pancake mix should I use?
Feel free to use your favorite pancake mix—whatever you have on hand will do! I’ve had great success with both buttermilk and original flavors, but you can also experiment with chocolate or blueberry mixes for a unique twist.

How should I store leftover Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts?
Store your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transferred to a labeled airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 2 months!

Can I freeze these donuts? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop the sheet in the freezer until the donuts are solid, which will take about an hour. Then, transfer the donuts to an airtight freezer bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Enjoy them warmed straight from the microwave anytime!

What’s the best way to reheat frozen donuts?
For the best experience, microwave your frozen Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts for about 15-20 seconds until warm. If you prefer, you can also let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat, but I find the microwave to be the quickest and most effective method without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Are these donuts safe for children with allergies?
The recipe itself is quite flexible! If you’re catering to specific allergies, consider using a gluten-free pancake mix and dairy-free milk alternatives. Additionally, if you’re using chocolate chips, opt for dairy-free chips if lactose intolerance or dairy allergies are a concern. Always check the packaging for allergen information to ensure safety.

Why did my donuts come out dry?
Oh no! If your Chocolate Chip Pancake Donuts turned out dry, it could be due to overmixing the batter or baking them for too long. Remember to mix just until combined and check for doneness a minute or two early. They are perfect when they spring back from a light touch and are not overly golden.