Cocoa Pancakes

Cocoa pancakes are a delicious variation of the classic pancakes, perfect for an energetic breakfast or a tasty snack. Here is the Italian recipe:

Ingredients

• 150 g of all-purpose flour
• 30 g of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 250 ml of milk
• 1 packet of baking powder (about 16 g)
• A pinch of salt
• Butter (as much as needed to grease the pan)

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour with the cocoa, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This will help to avoid lumps and incorporate air, making the pancakes fluffier.
2. Add the sugar to the flour and cocoa mixture and mix lightly.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg with a whisk and then gradually add the milk, continuing to stir.
4. Combine the milk and egg mixture with the dry ingredients, mixing everything with a whisk until you get a smooth and lump-free batter.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and grease the bottom with a bit of butter.
6. Pour a ladle of batter into the hot pan and cook for about 2 minutes or until small bubbles appear on the surface of the pancake.
7. Flip the pancake with a spatula and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes or until it turns golden.
8. Repeat the process with all the batter, greasing the pan with a bit of butter if necessary between cookings.
9. Serve your cocoa pancakes hot, maybe with a dusting of powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit, hazelnut cream, or whatever you like most.

Curiosity

Although often considered a sweet treat for breakfast, pancakes have very ancient origins and different cultures around the world have their own version of this delight, from the French crêpe, to the Russian blini, to the Japanese dorayaki. Cocoa gives it an Italian touch, making the dish even richer and more satisfying.