The first time I drizzled rich, syrupy tres leches over pancakes, it felt like a sweet revelation that blurred the lines between breakfast and dessert. I’ve always cherished classic pancakes, but take them to the next level with a tres leches twist, and you open up a world of flavor, moisture, and sheer indulgence. Imagine starting your day with fluffy pancakes soaked in a luscious blend of three milks, enhanced by a hint of cinnamon and the joyful surprise of melting chocolate chips.
These Tres Leches Pancakes are perfect for anyone searching for a delightful escape from routine, whether you’re preparing a special brunch for friends or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary on a quiet Sunday morning. With just 30 minutes of your time, you’ll craft a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Get ready to whip up these pancakes that will have your family and friends raving—trust me, they won’t be able to get enough!
Why Are Tres Leches Pancakes a Must-Try?
Indulgent experience: These pancakes soak in a rich tres leches syrup, transforming breakfast into dessert.
Moist and fluffy: The combination of three milks ensures every bite is velvety and bursting with flavor.
Chocolate surprise: Mini chocolate chips melt into the pancakes, adding delightful sweetness and decadence.
Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy gourmet dining at home!
Perfect for sharing: Impress friends and family at brunch or a casual get-together with this unique twist on a classic favorite.
Elevate your brunch game and delight your taste buds with these irresistible pancakes—you won’t want to miss out!
Tres Leches Pancakes Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!
For the Pancakes
- Whole milk – adds moisture and richness to your pancake batter.
- All-purpose flour – provides the perfect texture; for a gluten-free option, use almond flour.
- Vegetable oil – keeps the pancakes tender; melted butter can be used for extra flavor.
- Sugar – enhances sweetness; feel free to adjust to your liking!
- Egg – binds the ingredients together, creating a fluffy structure.
- Baking powder – helps the pancakes rise beautifully; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Cinnamon powder – adds a warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the tres leches syrup.
- Vanilla extract – infuses sweetness and warmth into the batter.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Mini chocolate chips – melt into the pancakes for a delightful surprise; try white chocolate chips for a twist.
For the Tres Leches Syrup
- Sweetened condensed milk – the star of the syrup, making it incredibly rich and sweet; don’t skip this!
- Evaporated milk – adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the condensed milk.
- Heavy whipping cream – gives the syrup a luxurious texture; for a lighter version, sub with whole milk.
For Toppings
- Dulce de leche or caramel drizzle – adds a rich, buttery finish to the pancakes.
- Ground cinnamon – a sprinkle on top gives a lovely fragrance and flavor boost.
- Whipped cream – light and fluffy topping that complements the pancakes beautifully.
- Fresh berries – add a burst of freshness and color; strawberries or blueberries work wonderfully.
Bring the irresistible flavor of Tres Leches Pancakes to your kitchen with these carefully selected ingredients!
How to Make Tres Leches Pancakes
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Mix liquids: In one bowl, combine whole milk, the egg, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand or electric mixer to blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
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Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon powder, and salt. This will create the perfect foundation for your fluffy pancakes.
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Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet milk mixture, stirring well after each addition. This helps prevent clumps, ensuring a silky batter.
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Add chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for a delightful surprise with each bite.
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Heat the skillet: Place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. This helps create that lovely golden crust on the pancakes.
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Pour the batter: Pour about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the hot skillet or griddle. Watch those bubbles begin to form as the pancake cooks.
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Flip it: Once air bubbles appear on the surface, carefully flip the pancake to the other side and cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown.
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Repeat cooking: Continue this process with the remaining batter, stirring it well each time to keep the chocolate chips from sinking to the bottom.
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Make the syrup: For the Tres Leches Syrup, combine all syrup ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly for a rich, creamy texture.
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Thicken the syrup: Boil the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly. This will create a luscious syrup to soak into your pancakes.
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Cool syrup: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool slightly to thicken further; this enhances its decadent nature.
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Serve your pancakes: Drizzle the warm Tres Leches Syrup over the pancakes and top with your favorite ingredients for a dreamy finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Tres Leches Pancakes
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Room Temperature: Serve your pancakes immediately for the best taste, but they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours if needed.
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Fridge: Store leftover Tres Leches Pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stack them with parchment paper in between to avoid sticking.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pancakes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—perfect for quick breakfasts!
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Drizzle with syrup after reheating for that fresh-soaked flavor!
Helpful Tricks for Tres Leches Pancakes
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Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can lead to tough pancakes. Just mix until combined for fluffy Tres Leches Pancakes.
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Check the Heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the pancakes. Aim for medium heat to achieve that perfect golden brown.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Expired powder can leave you with flat pancakes.
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Let the Syrup Cool: Allowing the Tres Leches Syrup to cool slightly after cooking enables it to thicken, ensuring a perfect drizzle over your pancakes.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to play with spices like nutmeg or add citrus zest for an exciting twist to the usual flavor profile!
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Layer with Toppings: Stack your pancakes and layer the syrup and toppings in between for an indulgent presentation your guests will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Tres Leches Pancakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to enjoy gourmet breakfast with minimal day-of effort! You can mix the pancake batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking—just be sure to stir it well before pouring it onto the skillet to maintain a smooth consistency. The Tres Leches Syrup can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply warm it before drizzling over the pancakes. To keep your pancakes moist, serve them fresh off the griddle and drizzle with the syrup just before serving for that delightful, indulgent experience!
Tres Leches Pancakes Variations
Feel free to personalize your pancakes and make them uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for whole milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the syrup.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Just ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free!
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Richer Syrup: For an even more indulgent syrup, try adding a tablespoon of rum or bourbon to the tres leches mixture before boiling.
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Fruit-Infused: Mix fresh fruit puree, like strawberries or mango, into the pancake batter for a fruity twist. This will brighten each bite!
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Nutty Surprise: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch. They provide a lovely contrast to the fluffy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the syrup to introduce a warming heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Vegan Version: Use flax eggs or applesauce in place of the egg, and swap milks as well as oil with coconut yogurt for a creamy texture.
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Chocolate Variation: Increase the amount of mini chocolate chips in the batter or drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished pancakes for additional chocolatey goodness.
What to Serve with Tres Leches Pancakes?
Treat yourself to a delightful brunch experience that combines sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of chocolate!
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Fresh Berries: The juiciness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pancakes and enhances their visual appeal.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds lightness and balances the decadent flavors of the tres leches syrup magnificently.
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Maple Syrup: A drizzle of classic maple syrup introduces a warm, sweet note that pairs perfectly with the milk-soaked pancakes.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon offers a delightful juxtaposition to the sweet pancakes, awakening your taste buds with each mouthful.
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Chai Tea: A warm mug of spiced chai tea complements the cinnamon notes in the pancakes, enveloping you in cozy autumn vibes.
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Dulce de Leche: For those craving extra sweetness, a drizzle of dulce de leche takes the flavor over the top, creating an indulgent treat.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Focus on the fun by pairing these pancakes with a thick chocolate milkshake that intensifies the chocolate flavor in the pancakes.
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Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top bring a tropical twist, adding texture and a delightful crunch to the overall dish.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert-style indulgence, serve warm pancakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that will melt beautifully over the warm tres leches syrup.
Explore these tasty pairings, and elevate your Tres Leches Pancakes experience to an unforgettable level!
Tres Leches Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Tres Leches Pancakes?
Absolutely! Look for whole milk that’s fresh and free from any sour smells. For your egg, ensure it’s not cracked and has a bright, intact shell. When selecting your chocolate chips, opt for high-quality ones that are glossy and free from any lumps. Fresh ground cinnamon works best, so choose a jar that is recent; the spices should have a strong aroma.
What is the best way to store leftover Tres Leches Pancakes?
After enjoying your pancakes, place any leftovers in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them from sticking together, add parchment paper between the layers. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and drizzle with syrup!
Can I freeze Tres Leches Pancakes?
Very! To freeze, arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the freezer until the pancakes are firm, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, separating each with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 months!
What troubleshooting tips do you have if my pancakes come out flat?
If your Tres Leches Pancakes are flat, it may be due to expired baking powder. Always check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh! Also, be gentle when mixing your ingredients; overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in dense pancakes. Lastly, ensure your skillet is at the proper medium heat when cooking to allow the pancakes to rise beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations for Tres Leches Pancakes regarding allergies or pets?
When it comes to allergies, be aware that these pancakes contain dairy and eggs, which can cause reactions in some individuals. You can experiment with dairy-free substitutes, such as almond milk and flaxseed for egg replacement, to accommodate those with allergies. As for pets, keep your furry friends away from these pancakes, especially the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, as they can be harmful to them.
What toppings can I use for my Tres Leches Pancakes?
I often love to get creative! You can drizzle dulce de leche or caramel for added sweetness, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries for a burst of flavor. Consider sprinkling ground cinnamon, or even toasted coconut, for an exciting twist. The more the merrier, so feel free to layer your toppings and enjoy the delightful combinations!
Irresistible Tres Leches Pancakes With Chocolate Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In one bowl, combine whole milk, the egg, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a mixer to blend until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring well to avoid clumps.
- Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips into the batter.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form, then flip to golden brown.
- Repeat until all batter is cooked, stirring before each addition to keep chips from sinking.
- Combine all syrup ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil while stirring.
- Boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly to thicken more.
- Drizzle the warm Tres Leches Syrup over the pancakes and top with desired toppings.
