Chocolate Chip Pancake Casserole
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Made with homemade pancakes, this chocolate chip pancake casserole will quickly become your favorite overnight sweet treat for breakfast and brunch. Sprinkled with chocolate, topped with a pecan and cinnamon streusel, and served with maple syrup, there’s so much to love about this easy breakfast casserole.
I don’t know about you, but I’m always looking for delicious and easy-to-make recipes I can serve for breakfast and brunch. I especially love when these dishes can be made the night before so most of the work is done in the morning. You too? Then you’re going to love this chocolate chip pancake casserole.
If you’ve been a longtime Inspired by Charm reader, you might remember that I made a similar pancake casserole a few years back. At the time, I had leftover pancakes and I turned them into this blueberry almond pancake cake. It’s still one of my go-to breakfast recipes. And speaking of pancakes, this berry-topped sheet pan pancakes is another breakfast go-to.
I thought it would be interesting to create a chocolate-inspired version of this pancake casserole, so that’s exactly what I did. While I have lots of delicious breakfast recipes and brunch recipes here on the blog, I don’t have anything quite like this.
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or simply enjoy a touch of sweetness in your breakfast, this recipe delivers an indulgent treat that will satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
From its irresistible aroma to its delectable taste, there are countless reasons why this chocolate chip pancake casserole will win your heart.
- This recipe combines the classic goodness of chocolate chip pancakes with the convenience and comfort of a casserole. It takes a familiar breakfast favorite to new heights by offering a delightful twist that will elevate your brunch game.
- Preparing breakfast in the morning can be a race against the clock. With this pancake casserole, you can do most of the work the night before leaving you with more precious moments to savor your morning routine.
- If you have little ones at home, you know the struggle of finding meals that everyone enjoys. This casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike making it a winner for family breakfast or brunch gatherings.
Ready to give this a try? You’ve got it. Let’s get into the ingredient list and then I’ll teach you how to make it.
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to whip up this pancake casserole:
- chocolate chip pancakes
- eggs
- heavy whipping cream
- whole milk
- brown sugar
- vanilla extract
- pecans
- all-purpose flour
- cinnamon
- kosher salt
- butter
- chocolate chips
- pure maple syrup
For the pancakes, I recommend using my homemade pancake mix. You’ll need about 3 cups of the pancake mix, plus 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Alternatively, you could use your favorite homemade or store-bought recipe to make the required amount of pancakes. Just be sure to add the chocolate chips.
How To Make
It couldn’t be easier to make this chocolate chip pancake casserole. Follow the simple instructions below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
- Begin by preparing your pancakes. You’ll want them to be about three inches wide. (Or use ¼ cup batter for each pancake.)
- Spray a 9 x 13 casserole dish with baking spray. Begin layering the pancakes into the pan in three rows until full.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, milk, brown sugar, and vanilla. Pour the egg mixture over the pancakes. (It will seem like too much liquid, but the pancakes will absorb the liquid.) Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least eight hours or overnight.
- When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a small bowl, mix together the pecans, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and mix to combine.
- Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole and sprinkle the top evenly with the prepared streusel mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 50 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let stand for five to eight minutes and then garnish with chocolate chips.
- Serve with pure maple syrup.
It’s as easy as that.
Recipe Variations
Now that you know how to make this chocolate chip pancake casserole, it’s time to get creative and explore some exciting recipe variations.
- Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or dark chocolate, to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Add a fruity twist by layering sliced bananas or strawberries between the pancake layers.
- Try incorporating some decadent ingredients. How about swirling Nutella into the batter for a rich and gooey chocolate hazelnut experience? Or perhaps adding a layer of creamy peanut butter between the pancake layers for a delightful combination of sweet and savory?
- For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, fear not as there are options for you too! If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour. Additionally, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. The result will still be the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk substitute if you prefer or have dietary restrictions.
Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to one month. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Can I add other ingredients to the pancake casserole?
You bet! This recipe is a great base for adding your favorite ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix in some chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella.
More Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love
- Berry Stuffed French Toast
- Oreo Pancakes
- Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Quiche
- Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
- The Ultimate Blueberry Muffins
If you’re ready to level up your breakfast or brunch game, this chocolate chip pancake casserole might be for you! Will you give it a try? If you do, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.
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Chocolate Chip Pancake Casserole
Ingredients
- 26 chocolate chip pancakes*
- 6 eggs
- 1 ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Streusel
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup butter melted
To Serve
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
- pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your pancakes. You’ll want them to be about three inches wide. (Or use ¼ cup batter for each pancake.)
- Spray a 9 x 13 casserole dish with baking spray. Begin layering the pancakes into the pan in three rows until full.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, milk, brown sugar, and vanilla. Pour the egg mixture over the pancakes. (It will seem like too much liquid, but the pancakes will absorb the liquid as things set.) Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least eight hours or overnight.
- When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a small bowl, mix together the pecans, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and mix to combine.
- Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole and sprinkle the top evenly with the prepared streusel mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 50 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let stand for five to eight minutes and then garnish with chocolate chips.
- Serve with pure maple syrup.