Cocoa Pancakes

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

Ingredients

• 150 g 00 flour
• 30 g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 250 ml milk
• 1 packet baking powder (about 16 g)
• A pinch of salt
• Butter (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 avoid lumps and incorporate air, making the pancakes fluffier.
2. Add the sugar to the flour and cocoa mixture and stir lightly.
3. In another bowl, whisk 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, stirring everything with a whisk until you obtain a smooth batter without lumps.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and grease the bottom with a little 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 let the other side cook for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Repeat the process with all the batter, greasing the pan with a little butter if necessary between each batch.
9. Serve your cocoa pancakes hot, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit, hazelnut spread or whatever you prefer.

Trivia

Although often considered a sweet for breakfast, pancakes have very ancient origins and many cultures around the world have their own version of this delight, from French crêpes to Russian blini to Japanese dorayaki. The cocoa adds a distinctly Italian touch, making the dish even richer and more satisfying.