Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a whisk or spatula just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the baking powder and soda to activate, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter or oil.
- Once hot, pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set. The bottom should be golden brown and the top should be mostly cooked through before flipping.
- Flip the pancakes carefully with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the second side is golden brown and the pancake is cooked through.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and keep warm in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) while you cook the remaining batter.
Serve
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, or extra chocolate chips.
Notes
For extra indulgence, add a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients to deepen the chocolate flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 1/2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then filling the rest with regular milk (any fat percentage) to make 1 1/2 cups total. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
