Introduction
If you love pancakes and tacos, why not combine the two into a deliciously fun breakfast dish? Pancake tacos are the perfect fusion of soft, fluffy pancakes and classic taco fillings, making them an excellent choice for a creative breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. These handheld treats are versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re filling them with fresh fruits and whipped cream for a sweet treat or eggs, bacon, and cheese for a savory spin, pancake tacos are sure to become a new favorite in your home. This recipe walks you through making homemade pancake shells and a variety of fillings, so you can enjoy them however you like!
Ingredients
For the Pancake Shells:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Sweet Pancake Taco Fillings:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 banana, sliced
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or whipped cream
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
For Savory Pancake Taco Fillings:
- 4 large eggs, scrambled
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup salsa or hot sauce
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or chives)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Pancake Shells
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. (Don’t overmix; a few lumps are fine!)
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet, spreading it into a small round pancake (like a taco-sized shell).
- Cook for about 2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Repeat with the remaining batter and set the pancakes aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
- For sweet pancakes: Slice the fruits and mix them in a bowl. Have Greek yogurt, whipped cream, and maple syrup ready.
- For savory pancakes: Scramble the eggs, cook and crumble the bacon, shred the cheese, and slice the avocado.
Step 3: Assemble the Pancake Tacos
- Take a pancake and gently fold it in half, taco-style.
- For sweet tacos: Spread a spoonful of Greek yogurt or whipped cream inside. Add a mix of fresh fruits and drizzle with maple syrup or honey. Sprinkle nuts on top if desired.
- For savory tacos: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese, avocado, and a spoonful of salsa or hot sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the pancake tacos on a serving plate and dig in! These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4 (Makes about 8-10 pancake tacos)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Pancake Tacos: Add chocolate chips to the pancake batter and fill with Nutella, bananas, and whipped cream.
- Vegan Pancake Tacos: Use plant-based milk, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water), and use coconut yogurt and dairy-free toppings.
- Protein-Packed Savory Pancake Tacos: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter and fill with cottage cheese, scrambled tofu, and avocado.
- Cinnamon Roll Pancake Tacos: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon to the batter and fill with cream cheese frosting and chopped pecans.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pancake shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Stack pancakes with parchment paper between them and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm pancakes in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a dry skillet over low heat until soft and pliable.
10 FAQs About Pancake Tacos
1. Can I make the pancakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the pancakes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Warm them up before serving.
2. What’s the best way to keep pancake tacos warm?
Keep them in a 200°F oven on a baking sheet until ready to serve.
3. Can I use store-bought pancake mix?
Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions and make them small enough for tacos.
4. Are pancake tacos gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free flour to make them gluten-free!
5. What are some fun kid-friendly toppings?
Try peanut butter, Nutella, sprinkles, or mini marshmallows.
6. How do I make savory pancake tacos low-carb?
Use almond flour pancakes and load them with protein-rich fillings.
7. Can I use crepes instead of pancakes?
Yes! Crepes work well for a lighter, more flexible taco shell.
8. What other proteins can I use for savory pancake tacos?
Try sausage, smoked salmon, or grilled chicken.
9. How do I make these extra fluffy?
Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for fluffier pancakes!
10. Can I make a dessert version?
Yes! Use ice cream, chocolate sauce, and crushed cookies for an indulgent treat.
Conclusion
Pancake tacos are a fun and delicious way to shake up your breakfast routine. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, these versatile, easy-to-make tacos can be customized to suit your taste. They’re perfect for brunch gatherings, weekend treats, or even meal prep for busy mornings.
Try this recipe today, and enjoy a breakfast that feels like a special treat—because who doesn’t love pancakes and tacos in one bite? 🌮🥞
Would you try sweet or savory first? Let me know in the comments! 😊