Indulge in the versatility of pancakes by exploring our extensive list of 55 mouth-watering toppings, from classic combinations to innovative twists. The quintessential American breakfast or brunch just got a whole lot more exciting! Fluffy buttermilk pancakes smothered in maple syrup and topped with melted butter are a timeless favorite, but why limit yourself when there’s so much more to discover? Let’s shatter the notion that nothing pairs better with pancakes than maple syrup.
Instead, let’s dive into a world of unique flavors and textures, each elevating your morning meal to new heights.
Cinnamon Sugar
As the sweet and spicy fusion of sugar granules and cinnamon tantalizes the taste buds, it’s little wonder why this dynamic duo makes for the ultimate pancake topping. And the best part? It couldn’t be simpler to prepare! Just combine one teaspoon of warm cinnamon with half a cup of sugar, and you’ll have a deliciously crunchy and aromatic topping at your fingertips in no time.
Butter & Honey
When seeking an alternative to maple syrup for your pancakes, consider the sweet and viscous properties of honey. Its taste profile, texture, and hue are remarkably similar to that of maple syrup. To elevate plain honey and add a luxurious richness to your pancake toppings, simply combine it with butter for a delectable and indulgent spread.
Grand Marnier Sauce
For a truly unique pancake experience, look no further than the Grand Marnier Sauce! This indulgent topping is surprisingly simple to create. Start by combining equal parts orange liqueur, sugar, vanilla extract, and a hint of citrus in a small saucepan. Add one tablespoon of Grand Marnier and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. As the mixture thickens, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
The result is a rich, velvety sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over your favorite pancake stack.
Caramel Sauce
Transform your pancakes with the rich flavor of caramel sauce. To create this indulgent topping, simply combine four tablespoons of butter with ½ cup of brown sugar in a saucepan. Add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness and then heat the mixture over medium-low heat for around 5-6 minutes, whisking constantly until it reaches your desired consistency. Next, stir in a tablespoon of vanilla extract and cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutella & Strawberries
Indulge in the rich, velvety texture of Nutella by applying a generous helping to your flapjacks. The deep, dark flavor will perfectly complement the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors. To elevate this treat, top the flapjacks with fresh strawberry halves, allowing their natural sweetness and tartness to harmonize with the chocolatey goodness.
Melted Snickers
There’s no beating the allure of a Snickers-infused pancake topping when you’re in the mood for something richly chocolatey. To create this indulgent treat, start by combining three chopped Snickers bars with ¼ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan. As you melt the chocolate over low heat, be sure to stir the mixture constantly to ensure a smooth consistency. If you desire an added layer of depth, consider incorporating ¼ cup of maple syrup into the mix as well.
Once the topping is ready, pour it generously over your flapjacks and indulge in the unforgettable combination.
Berries, Berries, & Berries
The allure of whole berries is undeniable. With their vibrant colors and bursting flavors, they have the power to elevate even the most mundane breakfast dish into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or tangy, whole berries offer endless possibilities for creative pancake toppings.
Simply combine your favorite berry varieties – strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries are all excellent choices – and chop them up for a delightful medley of flavors. Alternatively, use each type individually to create a decadent berry pancake topping, perfect for indulging in with a dollop of whipped cream.
Bananas & Peanut Butter
When it comes to pairing fruits with creamy peanut butter, one combination stands out as the ultimate match made in heaven – bananas. The subtle sweetness of bananas is perfectly balanced by the richness of peanut butter, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and indulgent. To take your snack game to the next level, simply layer sliced bananas on top of fluffy pancakes or waffles, then drizzle with creamy peanut butter.
For added crunch and texture, toss in some chopped peanuts or almonds for a delightful surprise.
Soft Cheeses
Ricotta and cottage cheese bring an unparalleled level of creaminess to pancakes, making them truly indulgent. To create this heavenly combination, start by blending 1/2 cup of icing sugar with 1 cup of soft cheese. For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a spoonful of raw honey into the mix.
Ice Cream
What’s the ultimate pancake topping combination? For many, it’s a scoop of creamy ice cream smothered in caramel and chocolate syrup – a match made in heaven! But what makes this pairing so special is the versatility of ice cream flavors to pair with your favorite flapjacks. While opinions may vary, my top picks for pancake perfection are vanilla, Belgian chocolate, cookie dough, strawberry, and butterscotch – each one bringing its unique flavor profile to the table.
Spicy Chocolate Sauce
Elevate your pancake game with a unique and indulgent topping that combines the richness of chocolate with a surprising kick. To create this decadent treat, simply add a pinch of cayenne powder to your chocolate mixture. The result is a flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Pumpkin Spice Maple Syrup
For those who revel in the warmth of pumpkin spice, this pancake sauce is the ultimate indulgence. The magic begins with the harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfectly balancing the rich flavor of pumpkin puree. As you whisk together this symphony of spices with a drizzle of maple syrup, the aroma alone will tantalize your senses. And the best part?
This decadent sauce requires minimal time to prepare, yet yields a sweet and spicy masterpiece that will leave your taste buds singing.
Lemon Curd
Imagine a sweet and tangy companion for your pancakes – the perfect union of flavors. But why settle for store-bought when you can create your own masterpiece at home? With just a few simple ingredients like lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter, you can whip up a batch of homemade lemon curd that will become your new go-to breakfast spread.
Maple Bacon
Bacon’s transformative power doesn’t stop at elevating a morning meal. When combined with fluffy pancakes, it creates a match made in heaven. To take this classic combination to new heights, try brushing maple syrup onto crispy bacon strips and sprinkling them with a pinch of magic – think spices, nuts, or even a hint of cinnamon. This indulgent twist is sure to make your pancake dreams come true.
Oatmeal Cookie Dough
One of the simplest yet most delightful topping options I’ve discovered is the oatmeal cookie dough. Its unique texture adds a satisfying dimension to pancakes, while also providing a boost of fiber that’s sure to keep you going until lunchtime. The best part? This tasty treat can be prepared in advance and doled out as needed, making it an excellent choice for a filling breakfast or brunch.
Apple Butter
Why not take on a delicious DIY project and whip up a batch of homemade apple butter? This sweet and tangy condiment is a perfect addition to pancakes, waffles, toast, and even savory dishes. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a simple simmering process with apples, sugar, and spices until it reaches the desired smooth consistency. While it may take around two hours of gentle cooking time, the end result is well worth the wait.
Eggs Benedict
Indulge in the ultimate breakfast twist: elevating Eggs Benedict to new heights by placing its rich flavors atop a fluffy pancake. The classic dish typically comprises poached eggs, Canadian bacon, creamy hollandaise sauce, and toasted English muffins. Feel free to get creative and swap out the traditional English muffin for a stack of pancakes, adding a delightful textural element to this morning meal.
Smoked Salmon Sauce
Looking to shake things up in the morning? Why not try adding some smoky flavor to your breakfast routine? Smoked salmon, with its rich and savory taste, makes an excellent addition to any morning meal, offering a departure from the usual sweet or bland options.
Pico De Gallo
While some may associate this Mexican-inspired delight with traditional ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers, there’s another way to elevate its flavor profile. How about giving your taste buds a surprise by serving it atop fluffy pancakes? The combination of the savory dish and the sweet, crispy pancakes creates an intriguing harmony that will leave you craving more.
Fried Chicken Fingers
Imagine a culinary fusion of waffles and chicken, but taken to the next level. This dish is a game-changer for those seeking a satisfying and filling breakfast option. The best part? It’s incredibly straightforward to prepare – simply coat chicken strips in flour, then sizzle them to a golden brown crispiness that will leave you wanting more.
Chia Seed Jam
For those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional jams, this homemade concoction is an excellent option. By combining chia seeds, berries, and a sweetener of your choice in a pan, you can create a thickened jam that’s surprisingly easy to make. Simply cook the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency, let it cool, and then spread it on top of pancakes or use it as a topping for your favorite breakfast foods.
Peanut Butter & Jelly
The timeless union of peanut butter and jelly has earned its place as an all-time favorite. For those seeking a convenient and effortless way to add flavor to their morning meal, this match made in heaven is the perfect solution. Simply spread the creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly on your pancakes, and you’re ready to start your day with a delicious twist.
Sausage Gravy
One beloved Southern dish that typically consists of a savory blend of sausage, flour, milk, and seasonings. When it comes to serving this hearty classic, biscuits are the traditional choice – however, its rich flavor profile also makes it a wonderful accompaniment to fluffy pancakes.
Burger Patty
Breakfast just got a whole lot more exciting. Ditch the fast food joint and create your own burger-inspired morning meal at home. Simply cook up some juicy burger patties and place them atop fluffy pancakes for a breakfast twist that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Feel free to get creative with add-ins like melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato slices – it’s a breakfast burger, reimagined!
Whipped Cream
For a sweet yet unobtrusive topping, this light and airy concoction is the perfect choice for those seeking a gentle dessert indulgence. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – merely combine whipped cream and sugar until stiff peaks form, then artfully pipe it atop your pancakes for an effortless treat.
Powdered Coffee & Mascarpone
Indulge in the creative fusion of tiramisu’s rich flavors with the versatility of pancakes. This innovative treat not only provides a much-needed caffeine kick but also serves as an excellent opportunity to repurpose leftover coffee, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.
Yogurt With Honey & Nuts
Indulge in this harmonious blend of flavors and textures that benefits both your gut health and satisfies your cravings. The yogurt’s creaminess is perfectly balanced by the honey’s subtle sweetness and the nuts’ satisfying crunch, making it an excellent choice for a morning pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Peach Syrup
Indulge in the sweet taste of summer with this simple and scrumptious method to enjoy fresh peaches at their peak ripeness. By combining equal parts sugar, water, and sliced peaches in a pan, you’ll create a mouthwatering syrup that’s perfect for serving warm or chilled. Simply cook the mixture until the sugar dissolves and the liquid thickens to your desired consistency.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulging in the delight of pancakes can be justified at any time, but there’s no denying the irresistible allure of a rich and creamy frosting to accompany them. For those with a sweet tooth, this velvety treat is sure to satisfy cravings. To create this indulgent topping, combine softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla extract in a bowl, whisking until the mixture reaches a smooth and silky consistency.
Dulce De Leche Sauce
A staple of Latin American cuisine, this traditional treat is characterized by its rich, velvety texture, courtesy of its base ingredients: milk and sugar. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet indulgence or a comforting pick-me-up, this creamy delight is sure to satisfy.
Milky Matcha Spread
The allure of matcha lies in its versatility, making it a staple in many modern kitchens. As a finely powdered green tea, it offers a unique combination of flavors – sweet and earthy, with notes that cater to various tastes. When I’m in the mood for something special, matcha is always my go-to choice, providing a delightful contrast to more traditional teas.
Hummus
At this point, it’s likely you’re convinced that any topping or filling can be paired with pancakes – and you’d be correct. However, what might not have crossed your mind is the possibility of incorporating hummus into your pancake game. And while it may seem like an unconventional choice, trust us when we say it’s a game-changer.
Not only does hummus offer a savory alternative to the usual sweet options, but its creamy texture and rich flavor profile also make it an excellent addition to your breakfast or brunch plate.
Spicy Salsa
Indulge in the perfect morning pick-me-up by infusing a burst of flavor into your breakfast routine. Sometimes, there’s no substitute for a fluffy stack of pancakes smothered in a tangy, spicy salsa – a match made in culinary heaven that’s sure to awaken your senses and leave you craving more.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Indulge in the rich flavor of umami by incorporating sautéed mushrooms into your pancake experience. Simply melt butter and garlic together, then cook the mushrooms until they’re soft and aromatic. Finally, pile these savory delights atop your pancakes and savor each bite.
Fried Egg
While it might be an understatement to say that a perfectly cooked fried egg doesn’t deserve a spot on this list, it’s undeniable that it’s a breakfast staple. When it comes to adding a savory element to your pancakes, there’s no better way to do so than with the simplicity of a fried egg. If you’re short on time or not feeling like putting in the effort required for a more complex meal, a fried egg is an effortless solution that still packs plenty of flavor and satisfaction.
Baked Beans
While it may appear unconventional at first glance, the combination of baked beans and pancakes is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the beans perfectly complements the richness of the pancake, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that leaves you wanting more. This unlikely duo checks all the boxes for a satisfying topping: sweet, savory, and filling, making it an unexpected yet delightful surprise.
Curried Chickpeas
Indulge in a harmonious blend of all your beloved curry flavors in a single, satisfying dish. This innovative approach also provides an excellent opportunity to repurpose any remaining chickpeas, turning them into a delicious and flavorful meal that will leave you wanting more.
Pesto
While the pairing of pancakes and pesto may raise eyebrows at first, rest assured that this unexpected duo is a match made in heaven. The nutty, herby flavor of the pesto injects a delightful depth to the classic breakfast treat, making it an innovative way to repurpose any leftover pesto you might have stashed away.
In line with our mission to minimize food waste and make the most of what we have, this pancake-pesto combination is a clever solution for using up every last bit of that tasty sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade
For pancake enthusiasts seeking a burst of flavor, look no further than this innovative option. The subtle yet distinct taste of sun-dried tomatoes makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the sweet and savory combination.
Marshmallow Fluff
Marshmallow fluff, a beloved breakfast staple, is incredibly versatile. Its sweet and fluffy texture is equally delightful when paired with warm pancakes or crispy toast, making it a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
Raw Chocolate Sauce
It’s astonishing to think that we’ve made it into the mid-40s without dedicating a moment to the indulgent world of chocolate. But, in an effort to rectify this oversight, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a unique gem – raw chocolate sauce. For those with a sweet tooth, this treat is sure to hit the spot.
Funfetti
The magic of sprinkles lies in their ability to add a touch of whimsy and joy to even the most mundane moments. Whether you’re looking to spice up a special occasion or simply bring a smile to someone’s face, these tiny treats are sure to deliver.
Coconut Jam
Indulge in the unique flavors of this delectable and alluring spread, which elevates your morning meal or snacking experience. This sumptuous and tantalizing jam caters to those seeking a departure from the ordinary, offering an exciting twist on traditional sweet treats.
Banana Caramel Sauce
A timeless pairing, the union of bananas and caramel in pancakes never fails to impress. The ripened fruit injects a natural sweetness into each bite, perfectly balanced by the indulgent richness of the caramel sauce, resulting in a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Toasted Coconut
Elevate the presentation and flavor of your dishes by incorporating toasted coconut flakes. A simple yet effective addition, they can add a delightful texture to your creations.
Hashbrowns
While there’s nothing quite like enjoying a crispy hash brown on its own, it’s hard to deny the charm of pairing it with fluffy pancakes. The combination is a match made in breakfast heaven.
Fried Plantains
Indulge in the rich flavors of Latin America by giving a traditional breakfast dish a tantalizing twist! Fried plantains, with their natural sweetness and subtle stickiness, make for an irresistible sidekick to any morning meal.
Granola
Elevate the humble pancake by adding a crunchy, flavorful twist – homemade granola is the perfect solution. Not only will it add some satisfying heft to your breakfast or brunch, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Just mix together your favorite ingredients and you’ll be enjoying a deliciously filling stack in no time.
Ham & Eggs Scramble
The combination of ham and eggs brings together two distinct flavors and textures, with the ham infusing a satisfying saltiness and the eggs contributing a creamy richness. This duo makes for an ideal topping for individuals seeking a harmonious balance of savory and satisfying qualities.
Salmon Gravlax
Elevate your pancake game with an unexpected yet tantalizing topping. The combination of salmon’s savory essence and gravlax’s luxurious creaminess creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. The subtle saltiness from the salmon perfectly complements the rich, velvety smoothness of the gravlax, making for a truly indulgent breakfast or brunch experience.
Caprese Salad
Italians have an innate understanding of culinary excellence, extending to their morning meal preparations. One popular breakfast topping combination that embodies this expertise is a harmonious blend of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, which when applied to fluffy pancakes, becomes the ultimate gastronomic delight.
Mango Salsa
When fortunate enough to acquire a bounty of mangoes, you’re in for a treat. This refreshing combination showcases the natural sweetness of the fruit, which harmonizes beautifully with the tanginess of lime juice. The added freshness from cilantro provides an invigorating contrast that elevates this simple snack into a delightful experience.
Deviled Eggs, Crème Fraîche, & Caviar
Emulating the opulence for which Russia is renowned, this indulgent experience promises to delight even the most discerning palates. Its sheer extravagance is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to partake in its pleasures.
Pulled Pork
While preparing the dish from scratch may require a bit more effort upfront, the end result is well worth the investment of time. The rich flavors of the pulled pork pair perfectly with the fluffy pancakes, creating a satisfying and filling combination that’s sure to please.
Fig Chutney
To conclude our culinary journey, let’s indulge in the sweet and tangy world of fig chutney. This delightful condiment is an ideal accompaniment to a stack of fluffy pancakes, but its versatility knows no bounds. Whether paired with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or simply enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat, fig chutney adds a touch of warmth and comfort to any meal.
The bottom line
If you’ve found inspiration in this guide on fun pancake toppings, I encourage you to experiment with each of the unique flavor combinations presented. Each topping offers a distinct twist that can elevate your flapjacks to new heights. Whether it’s as simple as Cinnamon Sugar or as savory as Fried Eggs, there’s something for everyone among our 55 fun pancake toppings. Take the opportunity to mix and match to create a delicious breakfast or brunch that suits your taste.
