Fluffy bite-sized pancakes infused with lemon zest and poppy seeds, filled with juicy blueberries, and drizzled with maple syrup — a zesty breakfast delight! These mini pancakes are a comforting yet refreshing option for a weekend brunch or a cozy morning at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Blueberry Lemon Poppy Mini Pancakes are a perfect blend of bright citrus flavor, subtle crunch from poppy seeds, and bursts of sweetness from fresh blueberries. Their miniature size makes them fun to eat and easy to serve — ideal for both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or just enjoying a slow morning, these pancakes bring a gourmet touch to your breakfast table without requiring complicated steps.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- all-purpose flour
- poppy seeds
- granulated sugar
- baking powder
- baking soda
- salt
- buttermilk
- large egg
- melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- lemon zest
- vanilla extract
- fresh blueberries
- maple syrup (for serving)
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes fluffy.
- Fold in the fresh blueberries gently.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease lightly with butter.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of batter per pancake onto the skillet to form mini rounds.
- Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm in a bowl with additional blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Servings and timing
Servings: 3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per serving: 220 kcal
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with almond milk plus 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and use a plant-based butter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Add a Glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) instead of maple syrup for a sweeter, more dessert-like finish.
- Different Fruits: Replace blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a twist in flavor.
- Extra Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder and a little extra buttermilk to balance the texture.
Storage/Reheating
To store, allow pancakes to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To freeze, place the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm them in a skillet over low heat for a crispier edge.
FAQs
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It is best to cook the pancakes immediately after mixing to maintain the leavening power of baking powder and soda.
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but do not thaw them first. Toss them in a little flour before folding into the batter to prevent bleeding.
Are these pancakes suitable for toddlers?
Yes, their small size and soft texture make them a toddler-friendly breakfast.
Can I make these in a pancake maker?
Yes, if your pancake maker has a mini mold, it will work perfectly with this batter.
How do I prevent overmixing the batter?
Stir until the ingredients are just combined; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make the pancakes tough.
What’s the best way to serve these for guests?
Serve in a shallow bowl with a small pitcher of warm maple syrup and a sprinkle of lemon zest for presentation.
Do I need to sift the flour?
It is not necessary, but sifting can help with a lighter texture if desired.
Can I omit the poppy seeds?
Yes, the recipe will still work without poppy seeds if you prefer a smoother texture.
How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking in batches?
Place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F or 95°C) until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Blueberry Lemon Poppy Mini Pancakes are a delightful and refreshing take on traditional breakfast fare. With their tangy lemon zest, sweet blueberries, and charming mini size, they offer a sophisticated yet approachable brunch option. Easy to prepare and versatile for variations, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite for lazy weekends or special morning gatherings.
PrintBlueberry Lemon Poppy Mini Pancakes
Fluffy bite-sized pancakes infused with lemon zest and poppy seeds, filled with juicy blueberries, and drizzled with maple syrup — a zesty breakfast delight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, melted butter, lemon zest, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined — do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Scoop small spoonfuls of batter (about 1 tbsp each) onto the pan to form mini pancakes.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown and set.
- Serve warm in a bowl with extra blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep pancakes fluffy.
- Use fresh, firm blueberries to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and egg substitute.
- Can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg