Description
These Charcoal Pancakes with Blackberry combine a unique activated charcoal-infused batter with a luscious homemade blackberry syrup, creating a strikingly dark and flavorful breakfast treat. Soft, fluffy pancakes are topped with warm, sweet blackberries and a drizzle of maple syrup, perfect for a dramatic and delicious start to your day.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon activated charcoal powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Blackberry Syrup & Toppings
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus more for serving)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, activated charcoal powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes while preparing your cooking surface. This helps the ingredients meld and the baking powder activate for fluffier pancakes.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Prepare the Blackberry Syrup: While the pancakes cook, combine the blackberries and maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat. Gently mash some berries with the back of a spoon to release their juices and cook until the syrup is slightly thickened.
- Serve: Stack pancakes on plates, spoon over the warm blackberry syrup, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and add extra maple syrup to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Activated charcoal adds dramatic color but should be used in moderation; consult your doctor if you are on medications.
- Substitute blackberries with blueberries or raspberries if preferred.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, use almond milk and vegan butter instead of buttermilk and butter.
