>
Uses for Pancake Mix

What else can I use pancake mix for?

by

Uses for Pancake Mix: 10 Creative Ideas Beyond Breakfast

Pancake mix is a staple in many households, often reserved for those lazy weekend mornings when the smell of fresh pancakes fills the kitchen. However, did you know there are many other uses for pancake mix that go beyond the traditional breakfast? This versatile ingredient can be the base for a wide variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick batch of muffins, a savory casserole, or even homemade pizza crust, the uses for pancake mix are nearly endless. In this article, we’ll explore numerous creative uses for pancake mix that will have you reaching for that box time and time again.

1. Waffles

One of the most popular uses for pancake mix is making waffles. The process is simple, and with a few tweaks, you can easily adjust the batter to create both classic sweet waffles and savory versions that are perfect for any meal.

Classic Waffles

If you love pancakes, chances are you’re also a fan of waffles. Luckily, pancake mix makes whipping up a batch of crispy, golden waffles a breeze. The key difference between pancake and waffle batter is the fat content; waffles generally require a bit more oil or melted butter to achieve that perfect crunch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

  1. First, preheat your waffle iron.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Next, pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  4. Finally, serve with syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite waffle toppings.

Savory Waffles

Waffles don’t always have to be sweet. By adding cheese, herbs, and spices to your pancake mix, you can create savory waffles that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. To start, preheat your waffle iron.
  2. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
  3. After that, cook the waffles in the preheated iron until golden and crisp.
  4. Serve with fried chicken, poached eggs, or a dollop of sour cream.

2. Muffins and Quick Breads

Another great way to explore different uses for pancake mix is by making muffins and quick breads. These treats are easy to make and can be customized with various add-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts.

Easy Pancake Mix Muffins

Using pancake mix to make muffins is a time-saving hack that yields delicious results. You can customize these muffins with various add-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 egg
  • ⅔ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional add-ins: ½ cup chocolate chips, blueberries, or chopped nuts

Instructions:

  1. To begin, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, egg, milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla until combined.
  3. Then, fold in your desired add-ins.
  4. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with batter.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pancake Mix Banana Bread

Banana bread is a beloved classic, and it’s incredibly easy to make using pancake mix. This recipe is perfect for using up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 2 overripe bananas, mashed
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ¼ cup melted butter or oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, bananas, eggs, sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Next, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips, if using.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow the bread to cool before slicing.

3. Biscuits and Scones

Pancake mix is also great for making quick biscuits and scones, which is another of the many uses for pancake mix that you may not have considered.

Drop Biscuits

Drop biscuits made from pancake mix are quick, easy, and oh-so-fluffy. They’re perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or even breakfast sandwiches.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and butter until just combined.
  3. Next, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
  5. Finally, serve warm with butter, jam, or gravy.

Sweet Scones

Sweet scones are a delightful treat, especially when made with pancake mix. Add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of glaze for a little extra sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup dried fruit or chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, sugar, cream, egg, vanilla, and dried fruit or chocolate chips until a dough forms.
  3. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch-thick circle.
  4. Cut the dough into wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

4. Cakes and Desserts

When thinking about different uses for pancake mix, don’t forget about desserts! Pancake mix can be transformed into cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats.

Pancake Mix Cake

Believe it or not, you can use pancake mix to whip up a quick and delicious cake. This basic cake can be dressed up with frosting, fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ⅔ cup sugar
  • ⅔ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup melted butter or oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, sugar, milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Next, pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Finally, let the cake cool before frosting or serving.

Pancake Mix Cookies

Yes, you can make cookies using pancake mix! These soft and chewy cookies are a sweet treat that comes together in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup melted butter or oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles

Instructions:

  1. To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the pancake mix, sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla until a dough forms.
  3. Then, fold in any optional add-ins.
  4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges.
  6. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Breakfast Casseroles

If you’re looking for savory uses for pancake mix, consider making a hearty breakfast casserole. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be customized with your favorite breakfast ingredients.

Pancake Mix Breakfast Casserole

A breakfast casserole made with pancake mix is a hearty and satisfying way to start the day. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be customized with your favorite breakfast ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • ½ cup chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach)

Instructions:

  1. To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, and eggs until smooth.
  3. Then, stir in the cooked bacon or sausage, cheese, and vegetables.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving.

6. Fritters and Doughnuts

Another interesting set of uses for pancake mix involves making fritters and doughnuts. These treats are surprisingly easy to make with pancake mix as the base.

Savory Fritters

Fritters are a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables, and pancake mix makes the batter preparation a breeze.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup shredded zucchini, corn, or sweet potatoes
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. First, in a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, milk, egg, cheese, and shredded vegetables.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom.
  3. Then, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot skillet, flattening them slightly with a spatula.
  4. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Finally, drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Pancake Mix Doughnuts

Homemade doughnuts are easier than you think, especially when you start with pancake mix. These doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and perfect for a weekend treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Oil for frying
  • Cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar for coating

Instructions:

  1. To start, in a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, milk, egg, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Then, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
  4. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  6. Finally, roll the doughnuts in cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar while still warm.

7. Savory Pancakes

Savory pancakes are another delicious way to expand your repertoire of uses for pancake mix. These pancakes can be enjoyed on their own or served as a side dish.

Vegetable Pancakes

Savory vegetable pancakes are a delicious way to enjoy your veggies. These pancakes are great on their own or served as a side dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup grated zucchini, carrots, or potatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped scallions
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. First, in a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, milk, egg, and grated vegetables.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with oil.
  3. Then, spoon batter into the skillet, forming small pancakes.
  4. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Finally, serve hot with sour cream or yogurt.

Cheese Pancakes

Cheese pancakes are savory, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Serve them with a side of bacon or ham for a complete breakfast.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. First, in a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, milk, egg, cheese, and seasonings until combined.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease lightly with oil or butter.
  3. Then, pour batter onto the skillet to form pancakes.
  4. Cook until golden and bubbly on the surface, then flip and cook the other side.
  5. Finally, serve with sour cream, salsa, or your favorite toppings.

8. Crêpes

Crêpes are another versatile dish to add to your list of uses for pancake mix. They can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients and are incredibly easy to make.

Basic Pancake Mix Crêpes

Crêpes are thin, delicate pancakes that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Using pancake mix makes the batter preparation incredibly simple.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pancake mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for sweet crêpes)

Instructions:

  1. First, in a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla until smooth and lump-free.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease.
  3. Then, pour a small amount of batter into the skillet, tilting to coat the bottom evenly.
  4. Cook until the crêpe is set and lightly browned on the bottom, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Flip and cook the other side for another 30 seconds.
  6. Finally, remove and repeat with the remaining batter.
  7. Fill with your favorite fillings such as Nutella, fruit, ham, or cheese.

9. Pizza Crust

Believe it or not, one of the unexpected uses for pancake mix is making a quick and easy pizza crust. This is perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but craving pizza.

Pancake Mix Pizza Crust

Pancake mix can be used to make a quick and easy pizza crust. This is perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but craving pizza.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, water, oil, and Italian seasoning to form a dough.
  3. Then, press the dough onto a greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
  4. Pre-bake the crust for 8-10 minutes.
  5. Remove from the oven, add your desired toppings, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Dumplings

Finally, pancake mix can also be used to make dumplings, one of the more comforting uses for pancake mix. These fluffy dumplings are perfect in soups and stews.

Pancake Mix Dumplings

Dumplings are a comforting addition to soups and stews, and pancake mix makes it easy to whip up a batch of fluffy dumplings.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pancake mix
  • ⅔ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (optional)

Instructions:

  1. First, in a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, milk, butter, and herbs until a dough forms.
  2. Then, drop spoonfuls of dough into simmering soup or stew.
  3. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pancake mix is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes beyond just pancakes. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, the possibilities are nearly endless. From waffles and muffins to savory casseroles and pizza crusts, pancake mix is a true kitchen workhorse. So next time you reach for that box, remember that it can do so much more than just make pancakes. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment