If you’re searching for a breakfast that’s both simple and satisfying, the Olive Oil Pancakes Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These pancakes come out fluffy, tender, and carry the subtle, fruity richness that only good olive oil can provide. It’s a delightful twist on a classic that adds a depth of flavor and moistness you’ll want to recreate again and again. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special brunch, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this recipe is effortless but never plain. Each component plays its part perfectly—from the flour, which forms the fluffy base, to the olive oil that keeps the pancakes tender and infuses them with a lovely aroma and subtle flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your pancakes, providing structure and softness.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the batter rise, making pancakes light and airy.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the flavors perfectly by enhancing the subtle sweetness.
- 3/4 cup whole milk (or dairy alternative): Keeps the batter smooth and rich, essential for tender pancakes.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and provide a delicate texture and richness.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: The star ingredient that replaces butter or vegetable oil, adding moisture and a unique fruity note.
How to Make Olive Oil Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning, setting the stage for perfect pancakes.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, beat the milk, eggs, and olive oil together until smooth. This mixture not only brings moisture but also infuses the batter with the signature olive oil flavor, giving your pancakes a distinct twist.
Step 3: Gently Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until everything is combined. It’s important to keep some lumps to avoid overmixing, which keeps the pancakes tender and fluffy.
Step 4: Prepare Your Skillet
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly drizzle a little olive oil if you want an extra crispy edge. This step seals in moisture and enhances the olive oil aroma as you cook.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection
Pour about half a cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until you see bubbles form on the top, roughly two minutes, then flip and cook for another minute until golden brown. This ensures a perfect balance of crispy outside and fluffy inside.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve your olive oil pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings for a truly delightful breakfast experience.
How to Serve Olive Oil Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your olive oil pancakes with vibrant garnishes like fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. A few toasted nuts can add a wonderful crunch, creating a perfect harmony of textures.
Side Dishes
Pair these pancakes with crisp bacon, a side of scrambled eggs, or even a refreshing fruit salad for a balanced and hearty meal that satisfies all cravings. The mild flavor of olive oil pancakes makes them versatile to complement both sweet and savory sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack your olive oil pancakes with layers of whipped yogurt and honey between each one, or roll them with a filling of mascarpone and lemon zest. These ideas not only look stunning but elevate a simple dish into an unforgettable treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to preserve their soft texture and fresh taste without drying out.
Freezing
Olive oil pancakes freeze beautifully. Place parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. They thaw quickly and keep their delightful flavor and moisture.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, heat pancakes in a dry skillet over low heat or pop them in the toaster for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp around the edges. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?
While olive oil is key to this particular recipe’s signature flavor, you can substitute with other oils like avocado or vegetable oil, but the subtle fruity taste will be less pronounced.
Can I make these pancakes vegan?
Yes! Replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer and use a plant-based milk. Extra virgin olive oil remains the perfect fat choice to maintain the moist texture.
Why does the recipe call for lumps in the batter?
Overmixing pancake batter activates gluten, resulting in dense and tough pancakes. Leaving some lumps ensures they stay light and tender with a wonderful fluffy bite.
What’s the best way to tell when to flip the pancakes?
Look for bubbles forming on the surface that start to pop, along with slightly dry edges. These are the little signals that it’s time to turn them over for even cooking.
Are olive oil pancakes healthier than regular pancakes?
Olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making these pancakes a slightly better option compared to those made with butter or vegetable oils. Plus, they taste incredible!
Final Thoughts
Give this Olive Oil Pancakes Recipe a try and you’ll see how a few simple swaps bring a fresh, delightful change to your breakfast table. The warmth and flavor it adds create something genuinely special—perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to an indulgent morning. Once you make these, ordinary pancakes won’t be quite the same again.
Print
Olive Oil Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Light and fluffy olive oil pancakes made with simple ingredients, perfect for a quick and delicious breakfast. These pancakes use extra virgin olive oil for a subtle fruity flavor and a healthier fat alternative to butter.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup whole milk (or dairy alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and sugar.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the milk, eggs, and olive oil until smooth, creating a consistent liquid base for the batter.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined; lumps are fine to keep the pancakes tender and fluffy.
- Preheat skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, and optionally drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
- Cook pancakes: Pour about half a cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2 minutes, then flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, about 1 minute.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings for a delightful breakfast treat.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep pancakes fluffy.
- Use a non-stick skillet for best results and easier flipping.
- Olive oil adds a unique flavor but can be replaced with other oils if preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk.
- Adjust cooking time if pancakes are thicker or thinner than usual.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
