Searching for your next breakfast favorite? Look no further than quick and easy bacon pancakes! With our simple recipe, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Fluffy pancakes paired with crispy bacon are a beloved breakfast classic, but combining them takes this dish to new heights.
Read on to uncover the secrets behind making the perfect batch of bacon pancakes at home — from step-by-step instructions to essential tips for achieving the best flavor and texture.
Bacon pancakes: A delicious twist on a breakfast classic
If you’re no stranger to a fluffy pancake breakfast, try giving this classic recipe a twist by adding bacon. This combination of crumbled bacon and pancake batter offers the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that cater to a range of taste preferences. Plus, cooked bacon is protein-rich, which adds a nutritional boost to the meal.
Because they’re easy to prepare, bacon pancakes are perfect for both leisurely weekends and busy mornings. And with countless recipe variations to consider, there’s ample room for creativity — so you can customize the recipe to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you prefer a drizzle of pure maple syrup or a medley of fresh fruits on top, the options are endless. Ultimately, a bacon pancake recipe provides the perfect excuse to gather around the table with loved ones, creating lasting memories with each delicious bite.
How to make bacon pancakes from scratch
Serves: 8-10
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour.
- 2 Tbsp. sugar.
- 1 ½ tsp. baking powder.
- ½ tsp baking soda.
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted.
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk.
- ½ tsp salt.
- 1 large egg.
- Pure maple syrup, optional.
Step-by-step instructions for preparing bacon pancakes
- Step 1: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to soak up excess grease. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt until well combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly, then add the buttermilk and melted butter. Whisk until thoroughly combined.
- Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. Then, you can fold in the chopped bacon.
- Step 5: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to grease the surface. Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Use the back of a spoon to spread the batter into a round shape if needed.
- Step 6: Cook the pancakes for two to three minutes or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set. Flip the pancakes and cook for another one to two minutes — or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 7: Serve the bacon pancakes hot and drizzle with maple syrup and additional chopped bacon or any other favorite toppings.
Ready to get started? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Tips for delicious results, leftover delights and perfect pairings
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind for the best results:
Helpful hints for preparation
- Make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy before incorporating it into the pancake batter. This retains its texture and flavor.
- Depending on personal preference, adjust the consistency of the pancake batter by adding more liquid (such as milk or buttermilk) for thinner pancakes or more flour for thicker ones.
- When it’s time for cooking, use a non-stick skillet or griddle to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping.
- Over-mixing the batter can result in tough and dense pancakes. Be sure to whisk until just combined, leaving some lumps for a fluffy result.
- Watch for bubbles to form on the surface of the pancakes before flipping. This lets you know that the pancakes are ready to be cooked on the other side.
- Adjust the recommended cooking time as needed to achieve your desired level of crispiness for the bacon and golden-brown color for the pancakes.
Storing, freezing and reheating leftovers
- Storing: Allow your bacon pancakes to cool down, then store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for two to three days.
- Freezing: Place your pancakes on a tray and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for two to three months.
- Reheating: If reheating from frozen, thaw your pancakes in the fridge overnight. Then, warm them up in the microwave or a pan until they’re heated through.
The best sides for a bacon pancakes recipe
- Scrambled eggs to add more protein and richness to the meal.
- Crispy hashbrowns for a contrast to soft and savory pancakes.
- Avocado slices for a touch of freshness and creaminess.
- Fruit salad to balance the richness of a bacon pancake.
- Creamy Greek yogurt as a topping or dipping sauce for added tanginess.
- A dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- Crispy fried chicken for a special breakfast or lunch occasion.
Your top questions answered for perfect pancakes every time
Take a closer look at some of the most commonly asked questions you might run into along the way:
Can I use any type of bacon for bacon pancakes?
Absolutely! Any type of bacon works. If a classic cut isn’t what you’re looking for, you might opt for a thicker option like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon, Extra Thick Cut. Or, for a healthier alternative, consider Hatfield® No Antibiotics Ever Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon. Feel free to experiment with different types to find the flavor and texture that suits your preferences.
Should I cook the bacon before adding it to the pancake batter?
Yes, it’s recommended to cook bacon before adding it to the pancake batter. This ensures it’s crispy and fully cooked, which boosts flavor and texture. Make sure to crumble or chop the cooked bacon into small pieces before incorporating it into the batter for even distribution.
What are recipe variations and topping ideas to try?
Consider adding ingredients like chocolate chips, brown sugar, blueberries or mashed bananas to the batter for added flavor and texture. As for toppings, popular choices include maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit or even a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can certainly prepare bacon pancake batter ahead of time for convenience. Simply mix the batter according to the recipe instructions and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, give the batter a quick stir before ladling it onto the skillet.
Elevate your bacon pancakes with high-quality pork products
Bacon pancakes are a delectable and nutritious breakfast option, but when you’re cooking for loved ones, you want to prioritize both flavor and food safety. That’s where Hatfield comes in. As a trusted provider of high-quality pork products, Hatfield offers a range of pre-seasoned options, from bacon to pork tenderloin, ensuring delicious meals with peace of mind. Choosing Hatfield means serving up dishes that support the long-term well-being of your family — making every bite truly satisfying.
If you’re ready to start cooking, you can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!