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Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to create these bite-sized delights:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray or paper liners. This will make it easier to remove your pancake bites later.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook your bacon slices until crisp. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Pancake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing — lumpy batter is perfectly fine!
Step 4: Fold in the Bacon
Add the chopped bacon pieces to the batter and fold them in carefully. The batter should remain light and airy.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Don’t worry about spilling — these pancake bites are small, forgiving, and meant to be enjoyed with your hands.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Maple Glaze Finish
While the pancake bites are cooling slightly, heat the maple syrup and butter in a small saucepan until melted and combined. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pancake bites. Sprinkle with extra bacon or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. These bites are perfect with extra maple syrup, a cup of coffee, or even as a brunch centerpiece for friends and family.
Tips for Perfect Pancake Bites
- Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing leads to dense pancake bites. Gently fold in the ingredients.
- Crispy bacon is key – Soft bacon will make the bites greasy. Bake or pan-fry until crisp.
- Mini muffin tins are ideal – They give the perfect size and shape for easy serving.
- Make ahead – You can prepare the batter and bacon in advance, then bake when ready.
- Keep warm – Use a low oven (200°F) to keep bites warm if serving a crowd.
Flavor Variations to Try
The beauty of maple bacon pancake bites is how versatile they are. You can easily switch things up:
- Chocolate Lover’s Version: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter. The combination of sweet chocolate, salty bacon, and maple is decadent.
- Blueberry Bliss: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries for fruity notes.
- Spicy Maple Bacon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet-heat kick.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch.
- Savory Twist: Skip the maple and add cheddar cheese to the batter for a breakfast-meets-brunch bite.
Serving Ideas
These bites are perfect for various occasions:
- Brunch Parties: Stack them on a tiered tray for a visually stunning display.
- Kids’ Breakfast: Bite-sized pieces make them easy for little hands.
- Snack Time: Keep them in an airtight container for a grab-and-go snack.
- Holiday Breakfast: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple for a festive touch.
Pairing ideas:
- Fresh fruit, like strawberries or sliced bananas
- A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Hot coffee, tea, or even a spiced latte
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