Save A whimsical and delightful brunch board featuring fluffy pancakes decorated to resemble polar bears, served with fresh fruit, creamy spreads, and breakfast accompaniments—perfect for kids and family gatherings.
This recipe has become a favorite for our Sunday brunches where everyone enjoys decorating their own polar bear pancakes.
Ingredients
- Pancakes: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 cups buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Polar Bear Decorations: 1 cup thick Greek yogurt (for snouts and ears), 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (for ears), 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips or candy eyes (for eyes and noses), 1 banana sliced (for ears and snouts)
- Accompaniments: 1 cup fresh blueberries, 1 cup strawberries halved, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread, 1/2 cup whipped cream, 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Step 3:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined do not overmix.
- Step 4:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Step 5:
- For each polar bear, pour one large pancake (about 1/3 cup batter) for the face, and two smaller pancakes (about 1 tbsp batter each) for the ears Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden Repeat with remaining batter.
- Step 6:
- Arrange pancakes in stacks on a large board place the large pancake as the face and two small pancakes as ears.
- Step 7:
- Use Greek yogurt and banana slices to create the snout and inner ears.
- Step 8:
- Place chocolate chips or candy eyes for the eyes and nose Use mini marshmallows or banana slices for the outer ears.
- Step 9:
- Fill the board with fresh fruit, maple syrup, chocolate spread, whipped cream, and toasted coconut as desired.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately and let guests assemble or decorate their own polar bear pancakes.
Save This recipe brings our family together as we share laughs decorating and enjoying these cute polar bear pancakes on weekend mornings.
Notes
Try adding shredded coconut or lemon zest to the pancake batter for extra flavor Garnish with edible flowers for a festive touch.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowls, whisk, nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, large serving board or platter, small bowls for accompaniments
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (dairy), possible nuts (chocolate hazelnut spread) Check chocolate chips and spreads for possible allergens Always verify ingredient labels for cross-contamination if serving to those with allergies.
Save Enjoy making these adorable polar bear pancakes that brighten up any brunch table.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the polar bear shapes?
Create a large pancake for the face and two smaller pancakes for ears. Arrange on a board to form the bear shape, then decorate with yogurt, banana slices, and chocolate chips.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy-free yogurt and plant-based milk to suit dietary preferences without losing texture or flavor.
- → What are good decoration alternatives?
Mini marshmallows, sliced bananas, and dark chocolate chips work well for ears, snouts, eyes, and noses, adding playful details.
- → How should I serve the board?
Arrange the pancake bears with fresh fruit, whipped cream, syrup, and spreads on a large platter to encourage guest interaction.
- → Can the batter be made gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
A large bowl for mixing, a nonstick skillet or griddle, a whisk, spatula, and a serving board are recommended for easy assembly.