These Easy Cheesy Chive Scotch Pancakes are fluffy and packed with tasty cheese and fresh chives. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast or a fun snack!
I love how cheesy they are; they bring a warm, comforting vibe to any meal. Pair them with a dollop of sour cream, and you’re in for a treat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for your pancakes. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use a gluten-free blend instead. I’ve had great success with almond or oat flour too, which adds a nice flavor.
Cheddar cheese: I love a good sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for something a bit different. Try mixing in a little cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Chives: Fresh chives bring a light onion flavor. If you don’t have any, green onions work well as a substitute. For a different spin, try using parsley or dill.
Milk: Any type of milk will do, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Yogurt or buttermilk can also add richness and a slight tang.
How Do You Get Fluffy Pancakes?
The secret to fluffy Scotch pancakes is not overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can develop the gluten, making the pancakes dense. Just combine the wet and dry ingredients until they’re mixed—small lumps are okay!
- Use room temperature milk and eggs, as they help the batter come together smoothly.
- Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes before cooking. This gives the baking powder time to work and can result in fluffier pancakes.
Don’t rush flipping either! Wait until bubbles appear and the edges look set—this ensures they’re cooked through and have a nice rise. Enjoy your fluffy pancakes topped with perfectly cooked eggs! 🍳
Easy Cheesy Chive Scotch Pancakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil (plus extra for frying)
Optional toppings:
- Poached or fried eggs
- Extra chives
- Red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy morning or a casual brunch! 🕒
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Adding Cheese and Chives:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped chives. Make sure they’re mixed in nicely so every pancake gets that cheesy, oniony goodness!
3. Preparing the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter or vegetable oil. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your pancakes.
4. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few small lumps. Remember, no overmixing to keep those pancakes fluffy!
5. Cooking the Pancakes:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Use a measuring cup to scoop about 1/4 cup of the batter for each pancake onto the hot skillet, leaving space between them.
6. Flipping and Finishing:
Let the pancakes cook for about 2-3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Carefully flip them over and cook for another 2 minutes until they’re golden brown. You might want to adjust the heat if they’re browning too quickly!
7. Keeping Warm and Serving:
Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a plate and keep them warm while you cook any remaining batter. Serve stacks of pancakes topped with your preferred toppings—like poached or fried eggs, a sprinkle of extra chives, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Enjoy your cheesy, chive-filled Scotch pancakes with the rich runny egg on top for a savory and satisfying meal!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chive Scotch Pancakes
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste, feta for a tangy kick, or even pepper jack for some heat. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well.
How Do I Store Leftover Pancakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pancakes! Place parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking, then wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken in the fridge. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may need a minute longer if the batter is cold.
What Can I Serve with These Pancakes?
These cheesy pancakes are delicious on their own, but serving them with poached or fried eggs elevates the meal. You can also add a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced breakfast or brunch plate!
