Sweet Cocoa Pancakes
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly cooked pancakes, and these Sweet Cocoa Pancakes are no exception. On those lazy Sunday mornings, I love whipping up a batch to share with my family. The sound of the batter sizzling on the griddle and the aroma of cocoa wafting through the kitchen often leads to a bustling breakfast table filled with smiles. These pancakes are not just a meal; they’re a cherished tradition in our home, a delicious way to start the day and create lasting memories.
Recipe Snapshot
45 mins
15 mins
30 mins
Medium
220 kcal
8 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
10 g
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Blender, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl
Why Try This Sweet Cocoa Pancakes
Decadent Flavor
What sets these Sweet Cocoa Pancakes apart is their rich chocolate flavor. The unsweetened cocoa powder blends beautifully with the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a delightful balance that satisfies any chocolate lover’s craving. Each bite is a little piece of heaven, reminiscent of dessert but wholesome enough for breakfast.
Healthy Ingredients
These pancakes are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and flaxseed. They not only provide a delicious taste but also contribute to a healthy breakfast option. The combination of dates and egg whites elevates the nutritional profile, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Easy to Make
Don’t worry if you’re not a pancake pro; this recipe is super easy to follow! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stack of fluffy pancakes ready to serve. It’s a great way to involve the kids, too—they love helping mix the ingredients!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch, a festive holiday breakfast, or just a midweek treat, these Sweet Cocoa Pancakes fit right in. They can even be dressed up with toppings like fresh raspberries or a drizzle of syrup, making them suitable for any occasion.
Customizable Toppings
The beauty of these pancakes lies in their versatility. You can top them with your favorite fruits, a dollop of yogurt, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch. This way, you can create a unique experience every time you make them!
Family Tradition
Finally, these pancakes have become a family tradition in our household. We often gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter as we enjoy these delicious creations. The Sweet Cocoa Pancakes have a way of bringing us all together, creating not just a meal, but also moments we cherish.
Everything You Need for Sweet Cocoa Pancakes

To create the perfect batch of Sweet Cocoa Pancakes, you’ll need a selection of simple yet effective ingredients. Each plays a critical role in achieving the right flavor and texture. The combination of dry ingredients like oats and cocoa powder alongside the moisture from dates and egg whites gives these pancakes their unique, fluffy quality.
- 4 medium dates, Medjool: These dates add natural sweetness to the pancakes, eliminating the need for refined sugars while enhancing the flavor profile.
- 1 cup oats, dry: Oats provide the perfect base for these pancakes, contributing to their fluffy texture and adding a healthy dose of fiber.
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, unsweetened: The unsweetened cocoa powder is what gives these pancakes their rich chocolatey flavor.
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed, ground: Ground flaxseed serves as a binding agent while adding nutritional benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids.
- 4 large egg whites: Egg whites help to create a light and airy pancake structure, ensuring each bite is fluffy.
- 3 large eggs: Whole eggs add richness and moisture to the batter.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil: This oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and moisture to the pancakes.
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted: Butter adds richness and a delicious flavor to the pancakes, making them even more irresistible.
- 2 cups raspberries: Fresh raspberries make an excellent topping, providing a tart contrast to the sweet pancakes.
Cooking Method for Sweet Cocoa Pancakes

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process for these Sweet Cocoa Pancakes. The steps are straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful plate of pancakes ready for everyone to enjoy. Let’s get started!
- Begin by placing the dates in a small dish, covering them with water. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until softened. This step will make them easier to blend.
- Once softened, remove the pits from the dates and toss them into a high-powered blender. Add the oats and blend until the mixture has a flour-like texture. You want it to be smooth, with no large pieces remaining.
- Next, add the cocoa powder to the blender and blend again to fully combine. The mixture should turn a lovely rich brown color.
- Now, add the flaxseed and pulse two to three more times. This will incorporate the flaxseed without overmixing.
- Pour the flour mixture into a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites and the whole eggs together until blended. Then, stir this mixture into the flour until just combined. You should see lumps; this is fine!
- If the batter seems too thick, you may add 1 tablespoon of milk or water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but thick.
- Allow the batter to rest for about five minutes. This helps the flavors meld and gives the pancakes a better texture.
- In the meantime, spray a large skillet or griddle with cooking spray and heat over medium. Add half a tablespoon of coconut oil and let it heat for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring the oil coats the skillet evenly.
- Once the skillet is ready, drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto it. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until you see bubbles forming and the edges look dry and airy.
- Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat this with the remaining batter, adding more coconut oil as necessary.
- Finally, serve the pancakes warm, topped with butter and fresh raspberries. Enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade Sweet Cocoa Pancakes!
Things Worth Knowing
- Resting the batter: Allowing the batter to rest helps the pancakes become fluffier. The resting period lets the ingredients fully hydrate and meld.
- Cooking temperature: Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature. Too hot, and the pancakes will burn; too cool, and they won’t cook properly.
- Flip with care: When flipping, wait until the edges look dry and bubbles form in the center. This indicates they are ready to flip!
- Batch cooking: If making a large batch, keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Ways to Customize

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some ideas to customize your Sweet Cocoa Pancakes experience:
- Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Mix in fruit: Toss some fresh blueberries or chopped bananas into the batter before cooking for an added burst of flavor.
- Use different flour: Try substituting a portion of the oats with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Serve with yogurt: Top the pancakes with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
- Chocolate chips: For an extra indulgent treat, fold in some dark chocolate chips into the batter just before cooking.
- Nut butter: Spread some almond or peanut butter on top for a delicious twist and added protein.
- Maple syrup: Don’t forget to drizzle some pure maple syrup over the top for that classic pancake sweetness.
What to Serve Alongside Sweet Cocoa Pancakes
Pairing food can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your Sweet Cocoa Pancakes:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the pancakes and add a burst of color to your plate.
- Scrambled Eggs: For a protein boost, serve with fluffy scrambled eggs. They complement the pancakes beautifully.
- Crispy Hash Browns: The crunch of hash browns pairs wonderfully with the softness of pancakes, creating a delightful contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait layered with granola and berries is a great light side dish to accompany your pancakes.
- Seasonal Fruit Compote: A warm compote made from seasonal fruits can add a lovely sweetness and warmth.
- Coffee or Tea: Don’t forget a refreshing cup of coffee or tea to wash it all down. It’s a perfect match!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
FAQ
Conclusion
These Sweet Cocoa Pancakes are not just a breakfast item; they’re an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and create delicious memories with your loved ones. You’ll find that every bite is a little celebration, and soon enough, they’ll become a staple in your home too.

Sweet Cocoa Pancakes
Equipment
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Whisk
- Blender
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 medium dates, Medjool
- 1 cup oats, dry
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed, ground
- 4 large egg whites
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 2 cups raspberries
Instructions
- Begin by placing the dates in a small dish, covering them with water. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until softened. This step will make them easier to blend.
- Once softened, remove the pits from the dates and toss them into a high-powered blender. Add the oats and blend until the mixture has a flour-like texture. You want it to be smooth, with no large pieces remaining.
- Next, add the cocoa powder to the blender and blend again to fully combine. The mixture should turn a lovely rich brown color.
- Now, add the flaxseed and pulse two to three more times. This will incorporate the flaxseed without overmixing.
- Pour the flour mixture into a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites and the whole eggs together until blended. Then, stir this mixture into the flour until just combined. You should see lumps; this is fine!
- If the batter seems too thick, you may add 1 tablespoon of milk or water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but thick.
- Allow the batter to rest for about five minutes. This helps the flavors meld and gives the pancakes a better texture.
- In the meantime, spray a large skillet or griddle with cooking spray and heat over medium. Add half a tablespoon of coconut oil and let it heat for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring the oil coats the skillet evenly.
- Once the skillet is ready, drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto it. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until you see bubbles forming and the edges look dry and airy.
- Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat this with the remaining batter, adding more coconut oil as necessary.
- Finally, serve the pancakes warm, topped with butter and fresh raspberries. Enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade Sweet Cocoa Pancakes!
Notes
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
- Freezing: Allow pancakes to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for longer storage.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
- Variations: Experiment with different toppings like yogurt or nut butter to switch things up.


