There’s a special joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into something delightful, and these Cheese & Chive Pancakes are the perfect example. Picture this: the delightful aroma of melting cheese mingling with the fresh, oniony scent of chives wafting through your kitchen. These fluffy, savory pancakes make a delightful addition to any meal, be it breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
I stumbled upon this gem during a lazy Sunday brunch where the fridge was looking a tad bleak. With just a few staples—flour, cheese, and eggs—I crafted these golden treasures in under 30 minutes! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility: perfect for family gatherings, brunch with friends, or even an unexpected weekday treat. Get ready to impress your taste buds and put an end to boring fast food with these irresistible Cheese & Chive Pancakes!
Why Are Cheese & Chive Pancakes So Irresistible?
Fluffy, savory goodness awaits you with these easy to make pancakes! Quick to prepare, you can have them on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings. Customizable ingredients mean you can swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs for a personal touch. Crowd-pleasing appeal makes them ideal for brunch with friends, while their delightful texture balances crispy edges with a soft center. Versatile servings allow for pairing with butter, eggs, or even a salad—enjoy them any time! Use this recipe to elevate your breakfast game and say goodbye to fast food monotony!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Ingredients
Transform your kitchen with these delightful Cheese & Chive Pancakes!
For the Batter
- Self-Raising Flour – Provides the structure and lift for fluffy pancakes; you can substitute with all-purpose flour and a teaspoon of baking powder if you don’t have self-raising flour.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors beautifully; consider using kosher or sea salt for a more robust taste.
- Milk – Moistens the batter; whole milk is preferred, but feel free to use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; for a vegan twist, swap it out with a flax egg.
- Mature Cheddar Cheese – Delivers a strong, savory flavor; you can substitute with Gruyère or a non-dairy cheese for a vegan option.
- Parmesan Cheese – Complements the cheddar with extra sharpness; can be replaced with Pecorino Romano, or omitted for a dairy-free version.
- Chives – Adds a fresh, onion-like flavor; green onions or shallots work well as alternatives.
- Butter and Oil Mixture (for cooking) – Ensures a golden-brown finish while adding richness; consider using olive oil for a lighter option.
Optional Toppings
- Additional Butter and Cheese – These enhance flavor and richness when served; they elevate your pancakes from good to unforgettable.
How to Make Cheese & Chive Pancakes
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Prepare Batter: Sift self-raising flour and salt into a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg until combined, then gradually mix this into the flour mixture to create a smooth batter. Gently fold in the mature cheddar cheese and chives for that delightful flavor.
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Heat Pan: In a small saucepan, melt together the butter and oil. Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat, lightly greasing it with the butter-oil mixture to ensure perfect flipping.
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Cook Pancakes: Using a tablespoon, drop the batter onto the hot pan. Cook each pancake until bubbles start to form and the underside turns golden brown (around 2.5 minutes), then flip them over and cook for another 2-2.5 minutes until golden and fluffy.
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Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a clean tea towel, keeping them warm while you finish cooking the remaining batter.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of extra butter and a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your pancakes with these exciting twists and substitutions!
- Herb Swap: Replace chives with fresh parsley or dill for a different flavor profile that’s just as refreshing.
- Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped spinach or cooked zucchini to the batter for a nutritious lift that brightens the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: Use a blend of cheeses like feta and gouda for a rich flavor explosion; just imagine that melty goodness!
- Flour Alternatives: Try chickpea flour for a gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavor; keep the texture fluffy with a little baking powder.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to bring the heat; serve with a cooling yogurt dip for balance.
- Mini Pancakes: Make bite-sized blinis and top them with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a fancy appetizer that will impress guests.
- Sweet Heat: Drizzle with a touch of sriracha honey for a sweet and spicy contrast that dances on your palate.
- Savory Seasoning: Incorporate a dash of garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth; a little goes a long way in enhancing the savory profile.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese & Chive Pancakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week! You can make the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance; this not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply mix all ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. For a quicker meal, you can cook the pancakes, cool them, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their light, fluffy texture, reheat them gently in a microwave for about 30 seconds before serving, or crisp them up in a pan for that freshly-made taste. Enjoy hassle-free mornings with these wonderfully savory Cheese & Chive Pancakes!
How to Store and Freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes
- Fridge: Store leftover Cheese & Chive Pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.
- Freezer: Freeze pancakes individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months; just reheat directly from frozen.
- Reheating: For best results, use a microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a touch of butter for extra flavor.
- Re-crisping: If you prefer crispy edges, pop them in the toaster or air fryer briefly after microwaving to regain that delightful texture.
Expert Tips for Cheese & Chive Pancakes
- Hot Pan Check: Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding batter to prevent sticking—test with a small pancake first.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense pancakes instead of fluffy Cheese & Chive Pancakes.
- Temperature Control: Adjust heat as needed; cooking at too high a temperature can burn the pancakes before they cook through.
- Flipping Technique: Use a wide spatula for flipping to prevent breaking; wait until bubbles form on the surface before turning.
- Storage Solutions: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days or frozen, reheating well in the microwave without losing fluffiness.
What to Serve with Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Elevate your mealtime with delightful pairings that complement the fluffy, savory charm of these pancakes.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon beautifully contrasts the soft, cheesy pancakes, adding depth to your breakfast plate.
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Poached Eggs: A perfectly poached egg on top creates a gorgeous yolk that seeps into the pancakes, enriching the flavor and texture.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the savory pancakes.
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Sour Cream: A generous dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a bit of tang, enhancing the overall taste experience.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with the cheese and herbs, making each bite delightful.
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Grilled Tomatoes: Roasted or grilled tomatoes add a touch of sweetness, making for a harmonious flavor combination with each forkful.
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Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cool herbed yogurt dip brings an added layer of flavor, making the pancakes feel gourmet for a casual breakfast.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: Toast these treats with a glass of sparkling cider, where the fruity notes elevate the dish with a festive touch.
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Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote drizzled on top brings a hint of sweetness to balance the savory pancakes beautifully.
Cheese & Chive Pancakes Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Absolutely! Self-raising flour is best for achieving that fluffy texture, as it contains baking powder to help them rise. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add a teaspoon of baking powder to mimic its properties.
How long can I store leftover Cheese & Chive Pancakes in the fridge?
You can keep your delicious pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat—easy-peasy!
Can I freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Definitely! To freeze, first cool the pancakes completely. Lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, you can reheat directly from frozen!
What if my pancake batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick to drop easily onto the pan, that’s no problem! Just whisk in a splash of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Remember, you want it to flow easily off the spoon but not be runny.
Are Cheese & Chive Pancakes suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, indeed! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat. If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, consider checking the cheese options; go for non-dairy cheese if you wish to make it suitable for vegans.
Can I use other herbs or vegetables in my Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative! You can substitute chives with green onions or even add spinach for a nutrient boost. Fresh herbs like parsley or wild garlic also work beautifully; it’s about what flavors you love best in your kitchen!
Cheese & Chive Pancakes: Fluffy Savory Delights to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sift self-raising flour and salt into a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg until combined, then gradually mix this into the flour mixture to create a smooth batter. Gently fold in the mature cheddar cheese and chives for that delightful flavor.
- In a small saucepan, melt together the butter and oil. Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat, lightly greasing it with the butter-oil mixture to ensure perfect flipping.
- Using a tablespoon, drop the batter onto the hot pan. Cook each pancake until bubbles start to form and the underside turns golden brown (around 2.5 minutes), then flip them over and cook for another 2-2.5 minutes until golden and fluffy.
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a clean tea towel, keeping them warm while you finish cooking the remaining batter.
- Optional: Serve with a dollop of extra butter and a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.