;)
Craving a breakfast that’s fast, fun, and absolutely delicious? These silver dollar pancakes are the perfect way to start your morning. Named for their petite, coin-like size, these mini pancakes are light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft—no buttermilk required! Whether you're making breakfast for the family or prepping a quick brunch, this easy pancake recipe delivers golden, consistent results in under 30 minutes.
What Are Silver Dollar Pancakes? Origins and History
Silver dollar pancakes have been a beloved part of American breakfast culture since the early 20th century. Their name comes from their petite size—each pancake is roughly the diameter of an old silver dollar coin, typically around 2 to 3 inches wide. Originally popularized in diners and family-style restaurants, these mini pancakes became a hit for their quick cooking time and portion-friendly appeal, especially for children. Over the years, they’ve earned a nostalgic spot on breakfast menus across the U.S., offering a bite-sized twist on the traditional flapjack that’s just as satisfying and infinitely more fun to stack and serve.
Silver Dollar Pancakes Vs. Regular Pancakes
Silver dollar pancakes are essentially mini versions of regular pancakes, typically measuring 2 to 3 inches across—about the size of an old silver dollar coin. While they share the same basic ingredients and fluffy texture, their smaller size makes them quicker to cook, easier to portion, and perfect for stacking or serving as a fun, bite-sized breakfast. Regular pancakes, on the other hand, are larger and better suited for hearty, single-serve portions.
How to Make Silver Dollar Pancake Batter
The key to great-tasting pancakes is getting the right consistency with your batter. It shouldn't be too thick or too thin, and with few to no lumps.
Let your batter rest for at least 10 minutes. This gives the baking powder and baking soda time to activate and lets the flour hydrate. Together, these handy little hacks will give you the fluffiest pancakes ever.
Tips For The Best Silver Dollar Pancakes
- If you like crispier pancakes, you can flip the pancakes a second time.
- If you're on a gluten-free diet, swap out the all-purpose flour for the gluten-free flour of your choice. Add an extra splash or two of milk for tasty, ultra-fluffy, gluten-free pancakes.
- Don't over mix the batter – if you do, you'll wind up with chewy pancakes instead of light, airy ones.
How to Serve Silver Dollar Pancakes
Serve your pancakes with maple syrup, jam, honey, fresh fruit, yogurt, or for a real treat, enjoy them with a dollop of ice cream or whipped cream.
You can enjoy these pancakes plain for a classic bite, or take them up a notch with your favorite add-ins—try frozen berries, chocolate chips, or sliced bananas for a touch of sweetness. Feeling savory? Top them with crispy bacon, whipped ricotta, or a fried egg. However you serve them, these mini pancakes are sure to become a morning favorite.
Silver Dollar Pancakes Variations
- Blueberry Bliss: Add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a juicy burst in every bite. Serve with lemon zest and maple syrup for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter for a kid-favorite version. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Banana Walnut Crunch: Fold in mashed ripe banana and chopped walnuts for a nutty, naturally sweet pancake with added texture and nutrients.
- Apple Cinnamon: Grate fresh apples and stir in a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. This warm, comforting variation tastes like apple pie in pancake form.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add canned pumpkin, a splash of vanilla, and pumpkin spice to the batter for a fall-inspired treat. Perfect with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Savory Herb & Cheese: Skip the sugar and stir in shredded cheddar and fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Serve with sour cream or a poached egg for a savory brunch option.
- Lemon Poppy Seed: Incorporate lemon zest, a splash of lemon juice, and poppy seeds into your batter for a light, citrusy flavor with a delicate crunch.
- Protein-Packed Pancakes: Use Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder in your batter for a more filling option. Top with almond butter and sliced bananas for an energy boost.
How to Reheat Leftover Pancakes
You have a few options when it comes to reheating pancakes. Layer 4 pancakes on a plate and zap them in the microwave for a minute. Or you can cover them with foil and reheat them in the oven for 20 minutes at 375°F. Finally, you can pop your pancakes in the toaster to reheat them. About 2 to 3 minutes will do the trick.
Can I Freeze Silver Dollar Pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze silver dollar pancakes! Simply let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop them in the toaster, oven, or microwave—no need to thaw!
How to Store Any Leftovers
To store leftover silver dollar pancakes, let them cool to room temperature first. Then, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredients
How to Make Silver Dollar Pancakes
;Resize,width=712;)
Pour flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Whisk to combine.
Pour flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Whisk to combine.
;Resize,width=712;)
Form a well in the center of the flour. Add the milk, butter, vanilla extract, and egg.
Form a well in the center of the flour. Add the milk, butter, vanilla extract, and egg.
;Resize,width=712;)
Whisk the ingredients to combine, until the batter is smooth and mostly lump-free. Set off to the side for 10 minutes.
Whisk the ingredients to combine, until the batter is smooth and mostly lump-free. Set off to the side for 10 minutes.
;Resize,width=712;)
Heat a non-stick pan over low-medium heat. Lightly grease with cooking spray or butter. Ladle ¼ cup of the batter into the pan, and smooth the batter out to form a round. Cook until bubbles begin forming on the surface of the pancake. The bottom should be golden brown. Gently flip and cook until golden brown, then set on a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Heat a non-stick pan over low-medium heat. Lightly grease with cooking spray or butter. Ladle ¼ cup of the batter into the pan, and smooth the batter out to form a round. Cook until bubbles begin forming on the surface of the pancake. The bottom should be golden brown. Gently flip and cook until golden brown, then set on a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter.
;Resize,width=712;)
Serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit. Enjoy!
Serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit. Enjoy!
;Resize,width=767;)
