Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites

This is such a simple breakfast and makes a great breakfast idea. Especially if you have children then need something on the rub. These Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites are ideal.

Breakfast at my house is always hectic, especially when back to school hits. Today, I made a mini version of my kid’s favorite pancake bites, that I used to do in the regular oven. 

What Are Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites

Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites are a delightful and convenient twist on traditional pancakes, incorporating the irresistible taste of chocolate chips into bite-sized pancake morsels. They are made by adding chocolate chips to pancake batter, which is then poured into mini muffin tins or a specialized pancake bite mold before being baked or air-fried to perfection. These pancake bites are fluffy, light, and studded with melty chocolate chips, offering a fun and mess-free way to enjoy pancakes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites are a hit with both kids and adults, providing a portable and delicious option for busy mornings or leisurely weekends alike.

Why You Will Love Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites

• Convenience: Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites are incredibly easy to make and serve, making them perfect for busy mornings or for feeding a crowd without the hassle of flipping individual pancakes.
• Portability: Their bite-sized nature makes them an ideal grab-and-go breakfast or snack. You can easily pack them for school lunches, picnics, or road trips.
• Versatility: You can customize the batter with various add-ins or toppings, such as nuts, fruits, or different types of chips, to suit your taste preferences or to make them new and exciting every time.
• Kid-Friendly: Children love the fun size and the chocolate chips, making these pancake bites a hit among the younger crowd. They’re also easy for little hands to eat without making a mess.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites are great for brunches, parties, or family gatherings, where they can be served as a sweet breakfast option or as a delightful dessert.
• No Special Equipment Needed: If you don’t have a mini muffin tin or pancake bite mold, you can still make these in a regular muffin tin or even as small pancakes on a griddle or in an air fryer.
• Satisfying Sweetness: The chocolate chips add just the right amount of sweetness and chocolatey goodness to each bite, satisfying sweet tooth cravings in a more portion-controlled way.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites

Creating delicious and fun breakfast treats has never been easier with this simple recipe for Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites. With just three basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful mini pancake bites that are perfect for busy mornings, snack time, or even as a sweet treat for dessert.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

How To Make Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites

Making Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites in an air fryer is a quick and simple process that results in delicious, bite-sized treats. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pancake mix with 1 cup of water. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This will be the base of your pancake bites.

Add chocolate chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter. Make sure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.

Cook: Fill the egg mold about 2/3 cup filled with the pancakes batter. Place the filled egg bite mold in your air fryer basket or on your air fryer tray. Set the temperature to 320 degrees F, for 5 minutes (air fryer setting). Or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so it’s a good idea to check them halfway through and adjust the time as needed.

Serve: Once done, carefully remove the pancake bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. They can be served warm, either plain or with your favorite pancake toppings such as syrup, powdered sugar, or more chocolate chips.

Recipe Variations

Experimenting with recipe variations for Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites can add an exciting twist to this already delightful treat. Here are some ideas to customize your pancake bites:

• Different Chips or Add-ins: Swap out the mini chocolate chips for other tasty options like white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even peanut butter chips. You can also add in small pieces of fruit, such as blueberries or chopped strawberries, for a fruity variation.

• Spice it Up: For a warming flavor, especially in the cooler months, consider adding a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice mix into the batter. This can transform your pancake bites into a festive treat.

• Extract Flavors: Mix in a teaspoon of vanilla, almond, or coconut extract to the batter to subtly alter the flavor profile of your pancake bites. This simple addition can make a significant difference in taste.

• Toppings Galore: After cooking, instead of traditional maple syrup, try drizzling your pancake bites with caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra decadent finish. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate your pancake bites.

• Savory Turns: If you prefer something less sweet, reduce or omit the chocolate chips and add grated cheese and finely chopped herbs to make savory pancake bites. These can be a unique appetizer or a side dish.

• Healthy Twists: For a healthier option, use a whole-grain pancake mix and substitute the chocolate chips with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also add a scoop of protein powder to the batter for an extra protein boost.

By incorporating these variations into your Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites, you can enjoy a range of flavors and cater to different tastes, making this versatile snack even more appealing.

Pro Tips

To ensure your Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always start with a preheated air fryer to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout your pancake bites. This helps them to start cooking immediately and get that slightly crispy exterior.

• Use a Mini Muffin Pan or Silicone Molds: If your air fryer can accommodate it, using a mini muffin pan or silicone molds designed for air fryers can make the process easier and yield more uniform pancake bites. This also makes cleanup a breeze.

• Do Not Overfill: Fill the molds or sections only about two-thirds full to give the batter room to expand as it cooks. Overfilling can lead to spillovers and unevenly cooked bites.

• Shake or Turn Halfway Through: If using an air fryer basket, gently shaking the basket or using tongs to turn the pancake bites halfway through the cooking time ensures they brown and cook evenly on all sides.

• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Depending on your air fryer model and the size of your pancake bites, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time ends.

• Let Them Cool: Allow the pancake bites to cool for a few minutes after cooking. They will firm up slightly as they cool, making them easier to handle and preventing burns.

• Customize Your Fillings: While chocolate chips are a favorite, feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Diced fruit, different types of chips, or even a small dollop of peanut butter or Nutella can make exciting variations.

• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the pancake bites warm, directly from the air fryer. If desired, accompany them with syrup, honey, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Following these tips can help you master the art of making delicious and fluffy Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites that are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Faq’s

Can I use a different type of pancake mix? Yes, you can use any pancake mix you prefer for this recipe, whether it’s buttermilk, whole wheat, or a gluten-free variety. Just follow the mixing instructions on the package, keeping the ratio consistent with the recipe.

Can I add other ingredients to the batter? Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, blueberries, banana slices, or any other mix-ins you enjoy. Just be mindful of adding too much liquid to the batter, as it can affect the consistency of the pancake bites.

How do I prevent the pancake bites from sticking to the air fryer? To prevent sticking, make sure to lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers. If you’re using silicone molds or a mini muffin pan, a light coating of non-stick spray should do the trick.

Can I make these pancake bites ahead of time? Yes, these pancake bites can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to refresh them before serving.

How long do I cook them in the air fryer? Cooking times can vary based on the air fryer model and the size of your pancake bites. Start with the suggested time in the recipe, but be prepared to adjust as needed. They’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I freeze the pancake bites? Yes, these pancake bites freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat them directly from frozen in the air fryer for a quick and convenient breakfast or snack.

Are these pancake bites gluten-free? The pancake bites can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pancake mix. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including chocolate chips, are also gluten-free.

Can I make these pancake bites in an oven if I don’t have an air fryer? While the texture might be slightly different, you can bake these pancake bites in a preheated oven. Use a mini muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The time may need to be adjusted, so keep an eye on them.

Equipment Used

 

• Instant Pot Omni Air Fryer

• Silicone Egg Bite Mold

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes