Save Fluffy pancake balls filled with sweet cream cheese and colorful candy pieces, inspired by monster cakes and perfect for a playful breakfast or dessert.
I first experimented with these pancake balls for a weekend breakfast, and the excited smiles at the table when everyone saw the candy eyes and bright sprinkles made them an instant favorite.
Ingredients
- Pancake Batter: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 3/4 cup (180 ml) buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Filling: 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Mix-Ins & Decoration: 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips or candy-coated chocolate pieces (e.g., mini M&Ms), Assorted candy eyes or colored sprinkles (for decorating, optional), Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Make Pancake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
- Prepare Filling:
- In a small bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Preheat & Grease Pan:
- Preheat an aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker over medium heat and lightly grease each well.
- Fill Wells:
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of pancake batter into each well. Add 1/2 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture and a few chocolate chips or candy pieces to the center, then cover with another 1/2 tablespoon of batter.
- Cook & Flip:
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the edges start to set. Flip each ball gently and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Decorate & Serve:
- Remove from pan and cool slightly. Decorate with candy eyes or sprinkles to create monster faces if desired. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Save My kids love helping decorate these pancake balls, making breakfast feel just like a fun party—especially when we compete for the silliest monster face ideas.
Tools You Need
Mixing bowls, whisk, aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker, small spoon or piping bag, and a spatula all make the process smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with maple syrup, melted chocolate, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra treat.
Nutritional Info
Each pancake ball contains about 110 calories, 5 g fat, 14 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save Savor these delightful pancake balls any time you crave a sweet, playful treat. They are sure to make everyone at your table smile.
Kitchen Q&A
- → What makes the pancake balls fluffy?
The texture comes from baking powder, baking soda, and buttermilk, which help the batter rise and create lightness.
- → Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, mix milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk's tangy effect.
- → How can I fill the pancake balls neatly?
Use a small spoon or piping bag to place the cream cheese mixture and candies at the center before covering with more batter.
- → Can I add other fillings or toppings?
Absolutely! Try swapping the candies for fruit pieces, jams, or use colored sprinkles for added fun inside and out.
- → What's the best pan to use?
An aebleskiver pan or cake pop maker works best to achieve a round shape, ensuring even cooking and easy flipping.
- → How do I decorate the balls for a monster look?
After cooking, use candy eyes, colored sprinkles, or chocolate to create playful monster faces atop each pancake ball.