Name: Cheese & Chive Pancakes: Fluffy Savory Bliss at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup self-raising flour (Provides structure and fluffiness); a pinch salt (Enhances flavor); 1 cup milk (Dairy-free milk works well); 1 large egg (For a vegan option, use a flax egg); 1 cup mature cheddar cheese (Offers savory flavor with melting quality); 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (Adds depth of flavor); a handful chives (Provides a fresh note); 1 tablespoon butter (Enhances flavor and texture); 1 tablespoon oil (Use a mix for a dairy-free version); 1 tablespoon butter (Serve warm for extra indulgence); 1/4 cup grated cheese (For presentation and flavor)

“Have you ever found yourself staring at a pancake batter and wondering what more it could be?” That’s exactly how my love for cooking led me to create these Cheese & Chive Pancakes. Trust me, these aren’t your average breakfast fare! With a perfect balance of lightness and flavor from mature cheddar, parmesan, and fresh chives, they’re a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, making them a quick and tasty option for breakfast, lunch, or even a late-night snack. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy Sunday or adding them to your weeknight dinner rotation, these vegetarian pancakes are sure to become a new favorite. Curious about how to make them just right? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Cheese & Chive Pancakes Amazing?

Fluffy Delight: Each bite of these pancakes delivers an airy, fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible.

Savory Twist: With rich mature cheddar, parmesan, and fresh chives, these pancakes redefine the breakfast experience.

Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, they fit seamlessly into any busy schedule.

Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a hearty snack, these pancakes are adaptable to any meal.

Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment by swapping chives for shallots or adding spinach for extra goodness.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Serve them alongside eggs or smoked salmon for an elevated meal that will impress family and friends. For more delightful breakfast ideas, check out my Ham Cheese Croissant or consider a sweet ending with a Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake.

Cheese & Chive Pancakes Ingredients

For the Batter

Self-Raising Flour – Provides structure and fluffiness; all-purpose flour with baking powder can be a quick substitute for similar lift.
Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust based on dietary needs or preferences for the best taste.
Milk – Hydrates the batter and contributes to tenderness; dairy-free milk works wonderfully here as a replacement.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; for a vegan option, use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer.

For the Filling

Mature Cheddar Cheese – Offers that savory, cheesy flavor with excellent melting quality; try another hard cheese if desired.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth of flavor; Grana Padano can be a great alternative.
Chives – Provides a fresh, herby note; green onions or leeks can substitute nicely for a similar taste.

For Cooking

Butter & Oil – Adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture; consider a mix of any oil if you prefer a dairy-free version.

Optional Toppings

Butter – Enhances taste; serve warm for a scrumptious experience.
Grated Cheese – Adds an extra layer of flavor; great for presentation and indulgence.

These Cheese & Chive Pancakes are not just another dish; they can be your go-to comfort food on any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese & Chive Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare Batter
Begin by sifting 1 cup of self-raising flour and a pinch of salt into a mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution. In a separate jug, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1 large egg until smooth. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the flour, whisking continuously to form a lump-free batter. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of grated mature cheddar cheese and a handful of chopped chives, creating a flavorful, thick batter.

Step 2: Heat Pan
In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of oil over low heat. This mixture will enhance flavor and help create a crispy exterior. While the fats melt, place a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat, allowing it to warm up for about 3 minutes. Once hot, grease the surface with the butter-oil mixture to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook Pancakes
Using a tablespoon, pour a dollop of the cheese and chive batter onto the heated frying pan. Cook for approximately 2.5 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for an additional 2-2.5 minutes, or until both sides are beautifully golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when they spring back lightly when pressed.

Step 4: Keep Warm
Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a clean tea towel, folding it over to keep them warm. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter, greasing the pan with more of the butter-oil mixture as needed. This step ensures your Cheese & Chive Pancakes stay warm and inviting while you finish cooking the batch.

Step 5: Serve
Your Cheese & Chive Pancakes are now ready to be plated! Serve them warm, optionally topped with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of extra grated cheese for added indulgence. These savory pancakes can also be enjoyed alongside eggs, smoked salmon, or your favorite breakfast sides, making a delightful treat for any meal occasion.

Cheese & Chive Pancakes: Tasty Twists Await

Feel free to add a personal touch to these delightful pancakes, enhancing them with your favorite flavors!

Herb Overload: Try mixing in fresh parsley or dill for a burst of freshness. The combination will elevate your savory experience!
Cheese Variation: Replace mature cheddar with blue cheese for a bold twist. The rich, tangy flavor will surprise and delight your palate.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the batter for a nutritious and colorful addition. Your pancakes will be as beautiful as they are delicious!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat. It adds a fabulous layer of warmth that your taste buds will crave.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs. They’ll still be fluffy and comforting!
Breakfast Stack: Stack your pancakes with layers of smoked salmon and cream cheese for a gourmet breakfast treat. Serve with capers for added sophistication.
Sweet Twist: Drizzle with honey or serve with a fruit compote for a sweet surprise alongside the savory. This is a great way to change things up!
Cheesy Delight: Top your pancakes with extra grated cheese before serving and pop under the broiler until melted. It’s a cheesy dream come true!

These versatile options ensure your Cheese & Chive Pancakes can cater to any palate. For a delicious side, consider pairing with a Cheese Ball Ahead or dive into a comforting slice of Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake. Enjoy the journey of flavor!

Storage Tips for Cheese & Chive Pancakes

Fridge: Store leftover Cheese & Chive Pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Freezer: These pancakes freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply microwave frozen pancakes for about one minute or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Wrapping: For optimal freshness, wrap individual pancakes in parchment paper before storing, particularly if freezing, to avoid sticking.

What to Serve with Cheese & Chive Pancakes

Elevate your Cheese & Chive Pancakes into a full-fledged meal with these delightful companions that cater to every palate.

Scrambled Eggs:
Fluffy scrambled eggs make a classic breakfast pair, adding a creamy texture that complements the savory pancakes.
Smoked Salmon:
The rich, smoky flavor of salmon enhances the cheesy goodness, turning breakfast into a gourmet experience.
Sautéed Spinach:
Fresh sautéed spinach adds a vibrant color and earthy taste, balancing out the pancakes’ savory profile perfectly.
Greek Yogurt Dip:
A tangy yogurt dip provides a refreshing contrast, making every bite feel refreshing yet indulgent.
Chickpea Salad:
A crunchy chickpea salad sprinkled with fresh herbs delivers a hearty option that is nutritious and satisfying.
Tomato Chutney:
Sweet and tangy tomato chutney offers a fun bite of flavor, giving your pancakes an exciting twist with a zesty kick.
Herbed Quinoa:
Light and fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs makes for a healthful side that harmonizes well with the richness of the pancakes.
Sparkling Water with Lime:
A refreshing sparkling water with a hint of lime cleanse your palate, enhancing the overall dining experience.

These pairings not only complement the flavor of your Cheese & Chive Pancakes but also create a delightful dining experience that everyone will love!

Expert Tips for Cheese & Chive Pancakes

Test Pancake: Start by making a small test pancake to check the heat settings. This will help avoid burning or undercooking your Cheese & Chive Pancakes.

Crispier Edges: For an irresistible crispy edge, make sure to generously use the butter-oil mixture on the pan before each batch.

Dairy-Free Option: If you’re going dairy-free, substitute milk with any plant-based milk and replace butter with a suitable oil blend.

Keep Warm: Use a clean tea towel to cover the cooked pancakes to keep them warm while cooking the remaining batter.

Custom Flavors: Feel free to swap chives for shallots or even add spinach to the batter for a tasty variation.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheese & Chive Pancakes are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you prefer, you can also cook the pancakes in advance and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just be sure to layer them between sheets of parchment paper to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pancakes in the microwave for about one minute or on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes on each side. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, delicious pancakes without the hassle—just as delightful as if they were freshly made!

Cheese & Chive Pancakes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chives?
Absolutely! When selecting chives, look for vibrant, green stalks that are firm and free from dark spots. Avoid any wilted or yellowing chives, as they indicate age. Fresh chives should have a mild onion flavor and crisp texture, perfect for enhancing your Cheese & Chive Pancakes.

What is the best way to store leftover pancakes?
Very! To keep your Cheese & Chive Pancakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Cheese & Chive Pancakes?
Absolutely! Freezing pancakes is straightforward. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just microwave for about one minute or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

What can I do if my pancakes are too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, don’t worry! You can easily thin it out by gradually adding a little more milk, about one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, a smooth batter helps those lovely Cheese & Chive Pancakes rise beautifully.

Are there any allergens to consider in this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains dairy and eggs, which can be allergens for some. If you’re preparing these pancakes for anyone with allergies, consider using dairy-free milk and a flax egg as substitutes. Always check labels for any potential allergens included in your ingredients.

Can I customize the cheese used in these pancakes?
Absolutely! While mature cheddar and parmesan add a fantastic savory flavor, you can experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gouda or Gruyère would also be delightful alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on the cheese’s strength to maintain that balanced flavor in your Cheese & Chive Pancakes.