Homemade IHOP Reese’s Pancakes Recipe

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The introduction of Reese’s Pancakes at IHOP piqued my curiosity and craving to the point of no return. Even with the detailed descriptions and mouth-watering images I’ve encountered, the culinary adventurer in me couldn’t help but ponder: What if we brought this sensory extravaganza into our kitchens? Imagine the joy of whipping up a batch of these heavenly pancakes on a lazy Sunday morning or surprising your loved ones with a treat that makes an ordinary day feel like a celebration.

So, in the spirit of culinary exploration and bringing a piece of IHOP’s magic into our homes, I set out to recreate the magic of IHOP Reese’s Pancakes.

How to make IHOP Reese’s Pancakes

IHOP Reese’s Pancakes are a popular menu item that features fluffy pancakes infused with the rich flavor of Reese’s peanut butter and chocolate. They are typically topped with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and pieces of Reese’s candy, creating a sweet and indulgent breakfast option.

Ingredients:

For the pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or a buttermilk substitute of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (plus extra for the griddle)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces, plus some for garnish

For the toppings:

• Chocolate syrup
• Reese’s peanut butter sauce (or smooth peanut butter, slightly warmed to drizzle)
• Whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is thoroughly combined.
3. Mix Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Mix until you have a batter that is just combined, being careful not to overmix. Some lumps are okay.
4. Add Reese’s Pieces: Fold in the Reese’s Pieces into the batter.
5. Prepare Your Griddle: Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and brush it with some melted butter.
6. Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
7. Flip the Pancakes: Carefully flip each pancake and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Serve and Garnish: Serve the pancakes warm, topped with chocolate syrup, Reese’s peanut butter sauce, additional Reese’s Pieces if desired, and a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips:

• Make sure your griddle or pan is at the right temperature before pouring the batter. Test it with a small drop of water; if it dances and sizzles, it’s ready.
• Avoid pressing down on the pancakes once they’re on the griddle, as this can make them dense and flat.
• Peanut butter sauce can be made by mixing peanut butter with some heavy cream or milk until it reaches a pourable consistency. If using store-bought, make sure to choose a creamy, easily drizzleable variety.
• Consider serving the pancakes with a side of eggs or bacon if you want to balance the sweetness with some savory notes.
• Leftover pancakes can be stored in the fridge or freezer. To reheat, simply microwave them or toast them until they are warm and regain a bit of their original crispness on the outside.
• Creativity is encouraged! Feel free to top your pancakes with bananas, which pair exceptionally well with the chocolate and peanut butter flavors, or even whipped peanut butter for an extra indulgent treat.

What to serve with

Serving IHOP Reese’s Pancakes as a centerpiece of your breakfast or brunch spread can be a delightful treat. Given their rich and sweet qualities, choosing accompanying dishes that balance these flavors and textures can enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Savory Side Dishes

• Scrambled or Poached Eggs: The simplicity of eggs, with their protein-rich, creamy texture, can provide a nice counterbalance to the sweetness of the IHOP Reese’s Pancakes. Add a pinch of salt or some herbs for extra flavor.
• Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty, savory quality of bacon or sausage complements the sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors of Reese’s Pancakes. The crisp texture can also provide a delightful contrast.
• Avocado Slices or Guacamole: For a fresher, somewhat healthier option, avocado’s creamy and buttery texture, along with its mild flavor, can be a refreshing side to the indulgent pancakes.

2. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

• Mixed Berry Salad: A side of fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) can provide a tart and sweet counterbalance to the pancakes. Berries also add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Sliced Bananas: Since banana pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter, offering more on the side can enhance those flavors within your pancakes.
• Seasonal Fruit Platter: A platter of sliced seasonal fruits provides a refreshing and healthy counterpoint. Consider fruits like peaches, melons, or mangoes for variety.

3. Beverages

• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: The acidity and sweetness of orange juice can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pancakes.
• Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee or espresso can complement the sweetness of the pancakes, aiding in balancing the meal’s flavors. Plus, their warmth pairs well with a cozy breakfast.
• Tea (Hot or Iced): A nice tea can be soothing for those who prefer a “gentler” caffeine kick than coffee. Tea options like Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or even a mint green tea can pair nicely.

4. Lighter Dairy Options

• Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: Serve on the side or as a topping, their tang and creaminess can add a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of your pancakes. You can also sprinkle them with some cinnamon or honey for extra flavor.
• Fresh Whipped Cream: While your pancakes will already be quite decadent, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a luxurious element if your sweet tooth desires.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a version of IHOP Reese’s Pancakes at home can be a fun and delicious endeavor. If you’re looking to substitute some traditional ingredients for health, dietary preferences, or simply because you’re out of stock, there are plenty of options.

Standard Pancake Ingredients Substitutions

Flour

• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Whole Wheat Flour: This can provide more fiber, but keep in mind it might make the pancakes denser.

Sugar

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Use natural sweeteners instead of white sugar. Adjust the liquid content in the recipe accordingly.
• Coconut Sugar: This is a less processed form of sugar with a lower glycemic index.

Milk

• Almond Milk: A dairy-free substitute that works well with pancakes.
• Oat Milk: Its creaminess enhances the texture, making it a good dairy-free option.

Butter

• Coconut Oil: A vegan alternative that adds a slight coconut flavor.
• Applesauce: This can be used to decrease fat content in pancakes, making them moist.

Eggs

• Banana: Using mashed bananas provides binding and moisture and adds sweetness.
• Flaxseeds: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous.

Reese’s Specific Ingredients Substitutions

Chocolate Chips

• Cocoa Nibs: For a less processed, antioxidant-rich chocolate taste.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: For a deeper chocolate flavor with less sugar.

Peanut Butter

• Almond Butter: Use as a direct replacement for a different nutty taste.
• Sunflower Seed Butter: A nut-free option that maintains a creamy texture.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips

• DIY Peanut Butter Chips: Make your own using peanut butter and coconut oil freeze drops on a tray.
• Peanut Butter Flavored Protein Powder: For added protein, mix this powder with a little oil to create small chunks to mix into the batter.

Final Thoughts

Using these substitutes, you can tailor the recipe to fit your nutritional preferences or dietary restrictions without significantly sacrificing the delightful flavor and texture of IHOP Reese’s Pancakes.

More Pancake Recipes:

• Almond Flour Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe
• Homemade Pancakes Without Baking Powder