Chocolate Chip American Style Pancakes - A Cheat Recipe

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Tuesday 16 February, many people in the UK, and beyond, will celebrate Shrove Tuesday. Before abstaining from some favourite foods during Lent, pancakes take centre stage. Pancake Day has always been a yearly treat, and we all remember our first pancake flip (or fail!). Just because you’re an adult now doesn’t mean the magic is lost.

Love pancakes but not the calories?

I have flippin' good news for you! Let Griddle and JimJams bring a super tasty solution for Pancake Day. You can enjoy fluffy American-style pancakes with chocolate spread without worrying about calories—just follow portion size guidelines.

Griddle's fibre-packed pancakes are made from a healthy wholegrain blend of wheat, organic rye, and organic barley flours, making them nutritionally better and more filling than standard white flour pancakes.

JimJams has received the Great Taste Award for their Chocolate Spreads with No Added Sugar. Seriously—chocolate spread with no added sugar!

Nutritional Facts

JimJams – 50 calories per dessert spoon

Griddle – 83 calories per pancake

Total calories per pancake: 133

I'm vegan; can I eat these pancakes?

Absolutely! Both the Griddle pancake mix and JimJams chocolate spread are 100% plant-based. Perfect for vegans or anyone wanting more plant-based meals—maybe inspired by Veganuary!

Vegetarians can add dairy milk or eggs if desired. I used homemade hazelnut milk and no eggs, but eggs may make the pancakes slightly fluffier.

Homemade hazelnut milk recipe coming soon on Culinary Travels!

Would I buy them?

I would likely not repurchase Griddle pancakes as I prefer making things from scratch. But for a vegan diet, these are a fantastic, ready-made option.

JimJams chocolate spread is a definite pantry staple. Creamy, intensely chocolatey, and vegan with no added sugar—better than other brands!

American Pancakes vs Crepes

If you prefer a thinner batter, try making French-style crepes to fill and roll up. Delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy Shrove Tuesday pancakes in under 20 minutes

Healthy wholegrain pancake recipe packed with fibre

Delicious chocolatey flavour with JimJams chocolate spread

Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options

Perfect for family breakfasts or brunches

Do I Need Any Special Ingredients?

All ingredients are simple and easy to find: Griddle Wholegrain Pancake Mix, plant-based milk, and JimJams chocolate spread. For vegetarian versions, you’ll need eggs and dairy milk. Optional toppings include fresh fruit, nuts, syrup, or whipped cream.

Tips for Making the Best Pancakes

Don’t overmix the batter; lumps are okay.

Use medium heat and a non-stick pan for even cooking.

Flip only when bubbles appear on the surface.

Grease your pan lightly with oil or butter to prevent sticking.

For fluffier pancakes, try adding eggs (vegetarian version).

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freeze cooked pancakes with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 months.

Reheat in a toaster, oven, or microwave before serving.

Recipe Variations

Fruit-filled: Add blueberries or chopped strawberries to the batter.

Nutty: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or walnuts on top.

Decadent: Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for a dessert twist.

Breakfast combo: Serve with maple syrup and crispy bacon.

Handy Hints / FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free? Swap Griddle mix for a gluten-free pancake mix.

Are these pancakes suitable for kids? Yes, they’re low-calorie, chocolatey, and fun to stack.

Can I use other spreads? Yes, nut butters, fruit jams, or classic chocolate spreads work well.

How many pancakes per person? Take three pancakes per serving as shown in the instructions.

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