Pancake Bread Recipe

Pancake bread is a fun twist that blends the familiar texture of bread with the cozy taste of regular pancakes. If you enjoy sweet bread in the morning, this concept may become your new favorite. The idea behind pancake bread brings together elements of a stack of buttermilk pancakes and a classic loaf, providing a comforting slice you can enjoy at breakfast or brunch, or as a quick snack at any time of day.

When you make pancake bread, you’ll see how simple it is to transform typical dry ingredients into a moist loaf that celebrates sweet pancake flavor. It’ll surprise you with a soft center and a crumb that stays tender. Let’s explore this pancake bread recipe step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to love this pancake bread recipe because it blends two breakfast favorites into one comforting dish. Like a pancake but baked into a sweet loaf, it offers a lightly sweet crumb, a delightful pancake flavor, and a crunchy crumb topping. This combination of textures is sure to please anyone who enjoys a slice of bread that leans toward the sweet side.

Many Trader Joe’s fan communities rave about joe’s pancake bread, so this copycat trader joe’s pancake bread version aims to capture that same taste, while offering a homemade touch. The recipe also draws inspiration from coffee cake, giving it a familiar swirl of cozy spice. Plus, it fits into the quick bread category, saving you from extended rising times.

If you enjoy a stack of buttermilk pancakes on the weekend, this pancake loaf is perfect for breakfast or brunch during the week. Once baked, it can be sliced, toasted, and topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of softened butter. With just the right mix of sweetness and ease, this bread suits many occasions. Let’s look at the ingredients needed to create your own copycat trader joe’s pancake bread at home.

Ingredients for Pancake Bread Recipe

Below is a breakdown of everything you need to assemble this delicious pancake bread. Keep in mind that the beauty of quick bread recipes is how simple the process can be. Gather all the ingredients in advance to make the workflow smooth and easy.

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)
   • Forms the base for the batter, giving structure to your loaf. King Arthur Flour is a popular brand many people trust.
2. Granulated Sugar (¾ cup)
   • Adds sweetness to the loaf. You can adjust slightly if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
3. Brown Sugar (¼ cup)
   • Contributes a deeper sweetness and helps create a moist loaf. Also important for that classic pancake vibe.
4. Pancake Mix (½ cup)
   • This might sound unusual, but it boosts the pancake flavor. Brands of pancake mix labeled just-add-water or complete pancake can work. It doesn’t need to contain yeast, as it’s typically a leavening blend of baking powder and other elements.
5. Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) and Baking Soda (½ teaspoon)
   • Together, they help the loaf rise and stay soft. Baking powder and baking soda support an airy texture.
6. Salt (½ teaspoon)
   • Enhances overall flavor. Kosher salt or table salt until combined with other dry ingredients keeps the taste balanced.
7. Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon)
   • A warm note that pairs well with the sweetness. It also hints at coffee cake flavor.
8. Sour Cream (½ cup)
   • Sour cream helps create a soft texture and moist crumb. Greek yogurt can substitute in a pinch.
9. Buttermilk (¼ cup)
   • Buttermilk adds extra tenderness and a subtle tang that reminds you of classic buttermilk pancake flavor.
10. Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened)

• Beat together the butter and sugar to achieve a smooth and creamy base. Butter content adds richness, and using unsalted butter helps control salt levels.

11. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)

• Adds a pleasant aroma and boosts the sweetness, tying together the pancake-inspired flavors.

12. Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons)

• Delivers that maple kick reminiscent of pancake toppings. You can add more if you like a sweeter taste.

13. Malted Milk Powder (1 tablespoon, optional)

• Provides a subtle malt depth. If you want an extra layer of flavor, this is a fun ingredient to try.

14. Eggs (2 large)

• Helps bind the batter. Most pancake batter uses eggs, and this is no different.

15. Crumb Topping (Optional, for extra crunch)

• A simple mix of brown sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. A crumble can be prepared in a small bowl with a fork if you want a crunchy top of the batter layer.

How to Make Pancake Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Tools

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray a glass loaf pan or a metal loaf pan with baking spray. If you prefer extra insurance against sticking, line it with parchment paper and let a bit hang over the sides. This prepared loaf pan helps ensure you can remove the bread easily once it’s done.
2. Gather a medium bowl and a few smaller bowls for measuring. Having everything within reach speeds up the process.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl or the medium bowl, whisk together all the ingredients labeled as dry. This includes:
   • All-Purpose Flour
   • Pancake Mix
   • Baking Powder
   • Baking Soda
   • Salt
   • Ground Cinnamon
   • (Optional) Malted Milk Powder
2. Once you whisk these dry ingredients, set the bowl aside. The dry mixture should look uniform in color and texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or with an electric mixer, beat together the butter (softened unsalted butter) and sugar (both granulated sugar and brown sugar) on medium speed. Continue until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl as needed to ensure everything blends evenly.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

1. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
2. Pour in the sour cream, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Mix at low to medium speed until everything is combined.
3. The batter should look glossy and well mixed. Take a moment to scrape the bowl sides again.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Mixture

1. Switch the mixer to low speed. Gradually spoon in the flour-based dry mixture, allowing it to blend with the wet ingredients. Avoid overmixing, as that can lead to a denser texture.
2. Stop once the batter is incorporated. Over-beating can reduce the soft crumb you want.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumb Topping (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons flour, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and a pinch of salt for the crumb topping. If you wish, add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
2. Cut in 2 tablespoons chilled butter with a fork until coarse crumbs form. Keep this topping aside.

Step 7: Fill the Loaf Pan and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. If using the crumb topping, sprinkle the topping across the surface.
3. Transfer the pan to the oven that’s been preheated to 350 degrees and spray was already applied.
4. The baking time is about 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

1. Once your timer hits around 50 minutes or until a toothpick emerges clean, remove the bread from the oven. A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean means you’re good to go.
2. Let the loaf cool in pan on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps the bread firm up.
3. Take a butter knife and run it along the edges. Gently lift the loaf from the pan (or use the parchment paper overhang).
4. Allow the bread to cool completely on the rack before slicing. That step helps the crumb set.

By following these instructions, you have all the details needed to bake your own pancake bread at home. This copycat recipe allows you to enjoy a slice that captures the spirit of trader joe’s pancake bread recipe without leaving your kitchen. Serve it fresh, store slices for a quick snack, or even pop a slice into the toaster for a warm treat. We hope you enjoy this sweet loaf and look forward to hearing how it fits into your routine. Feel free to share how it turned out or how you customized it. Slice and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve thick slices warm with a bit of softened butter or a drizzle of maple syrup. Pancake bread pairs nicely with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
• Snack Time: Pop it into the toaster for a quick warm-up, then spread a thin layer of jam or peanut butter.
• Creative Twists: If you want to transform it slightly, treat each slice like French toast. Dip a slice in an egg mixture and cook it on a griddle. It captures that toasty pancake batter essence in a new way.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container for up to three days. This helps preserve freshness.
• Refrigeration: If you live in a humid climate, store the bread in the fridge after wrapping in plastic. Warm it quickly in a toaster or microwave when you want a slice.
• Freezing: Slice the loaf, wrap each portion individually, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw slices at room temperature or toast them straight from frozen.

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: This guide provides comprehensive information on the safety and quality aspects of freezing food, including best practices and guidelines.

Helpful Notes

1. Copycat Inspiration: Many folks talk about trader joe’s pancake bread as a must-try treat. This version is a copycat trader joe’s pancake bread intended to give you that distinctive pancake mix taste at home. Some call it a joe’s pancake bread recipe, or a copycat trader joe’s pancake bread. If you are a trader joe’s fan, you’ll see how close this recipe is to the original trader joe’s pancake bread.
2. Sour Cream Substitutes: If sour cream is not available, you can use Greek yogurt. This maintains the tangy note and helps keep it a moist loaf.
3. Buttermilk Pancake Essence: Using pancake mix in the batter is a playful trick. It introduces the buttermilk pancake charm so each bite tastes a bit like morning brunch. You can also swap some of the liquid for more maple syrup if you prefer extra sweetness.
4. Pancake Loaf Texture: This pancake loaf is designed for a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a heavy texture, so stir just until combined.
5. Malted Milk Powder: A tablespoon of malted milk powder can enhance flavor, though it’s optional. It offers an extra layer of subtle sweetness that some people enjoy in certain bread recipes.
6. Prevent Sticking: Parchment paper is your friend. Even with a glass loaf pan or a nonstick pan, parchment prevents any stubborn sticking.
7. Copycat Variations: While this recipe is a copycat, feel free to add chocolate chips or swirl in cinnamon sugar. It is your bread, and you can make it your own.
8. Knife Around the Edges: After baking, a gentle run of a butter knife around the edges keeps the sides clean and helps you remove the bread more easily.
9. Consistency Check: The batter should be thick but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk. If it’s too thin, stir in a tablespoon of flour.
10. Try This Recipe with Toppings: A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can give it a dessert-like flair. You can also top it with fruit.
11. Know How It Went: After you bake, share how the pancake bread turned out. Did you prefer it with crumb topping, or did you like it plain?

Conclusion

Pancake bread merges the beloved flavor of a classic pancake with the portability and shape of a loaf. This dish can be served as a comforting breakfast item or a sweet snack any time of the day. By blending sour cream, buttermilk, and pancake mix in the batter, you capture the essence of a fluffy pancake while benefiting from the firm slice of bread. A crumb topping can bring an extra level of crunch, transforming each bite into a cross between coffee cake and pancake loaf.

Once you slice into your homemade creation, you’ll see why so many people love the idea of sweet bread baked with pancake flavor in mind. If you’re searching for an alternative to regular pancakes, or if you want a sweet twist at the table, give this pancake bread a try. You may find it becomes your go-to morning treat.

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Pancake Bread Recipe

Rebecca Blumer

Upgrade your breakfast with our pancake bread recipe. Get started on a moist, flavorful loaf that makes every morning special.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 9 Slices

Ingredients

  

Ingredients for Pancake Bread Recipe

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup pancake mix
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon malted milk powder optional
• 2 large eggs

For the Crumb Topping (Optional):

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Pinch of salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
• 2 tablespoons chilled butter

Instructions

 

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Loaf Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a loaf pan with baking spray or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pancake mix, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and malted milk powder (if using). Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

• Beat in eggs one at a time.
• Mix in sour cream, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

• Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Make the Crumb Topping (Optional)

• In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
• Cut in chilled butter with a fork until crumbs form.

Step 7: Bake the Pancake Bread

• Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Sprinkle crumb topping evenly (if using).
• Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool & Slice

• Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
• Run a butter knife around the edges, then remove the bread from the pan.
• Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Step 9: Tried this Pancake Bread Recipe?

• If you make this, I’d love to hear from you! Scroll down to rate this recipe and leave a quick comment. Your feedback helps others and supports my little website—thank you so much! 🙌💛

Video

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220-250 kcal
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 4g

 

⚠️ Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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