Gone are the days you thought a pancake mix was the only way to get diner-quality pancakes in a flash. Start your day off right by enjoying frozen pancakes after making pancakes from scratch. Once you've indulged on a short (or large) stack, there's no need to let those fluffy flapjacks go to waste. Here you'll learn our Test Kitchen's tips for how to freeze pancakes. You're not limited to freezing just plain pancakes, either—if you're a chocolate chip lover, or if blueberry pancakes hold the key to your heart, you can reheat those frozen pancakes just as easily as buttermilk or buckwheat pancakes. Heat up your griddle and grab your favorite syrup—we're making pancakes.
How to Freeze Pancakes
For the most part, you can freeze and reheat just about any kind of pancake. Just make sure you freeze the pancakes while plain, before adding any syrup, butter, or other toppings (those come after you reheat!). But feel free to freeze buttermilk, buckwheat, chocolate chip, blueberry, or other fruity pancakes—they should all freeze and reheat to be just as delicious as any pancake fresh off the griddle.
To freeze, make pancakes as directed by your recipe, and let it cool completely once they are cooked through. Layer pancakes between sheets of waxed paper in a freezer container or reusable freezer bag. Seal and freeze for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Pancakes
When it's time to reheat your frozen pancakes, there are a few different methods you can choose from. There's no need to defrost the pancakes in your fridge overnight—they can go straight from the freezer to your preferred reheating method.
Method 1: Reheat Pancakes in the Oven
If you prepared make-ahead pancakes for a crowd, using your oven will be the quickest way to reheat a large batch of pancakes. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Place frozen pancakes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until warm. Then plate them up and serve with your favorite toppings.
Method 2: Reheat Pancakes in a Toaster
For a fast-paced, busy morning when you just need one or two pancakes to get you (or your family) out the door on time, reheat frozen pancakes in a toaster. Place one pancake in each toaster slot, and heat until warm. Be sure to keep a close eye on your pancakes while they're in the toaster—you don't want them to get overly crispy.
Method 3: Reheat Pancakes in the Microwave
Our final way to reheat frozen pancakes might be the easiest way to imitate the soft, fluffy pancakes you get by making them fresh. Begin by placing 2 pancakes on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on 100% power (or high power) for 1 to 1½ minutes or until warm, turning once. Add butter and syrup, and breakfast is served.
Now that you've learned how to reheat leftover pancakes, there's no reason not to pull out your griddle and make a double-batch! Try one of our favorite pancake recipes, pull out an old family favorite, or experiment by adding your favorite fruits, nuts, or chocolate pieces to a classic pancake batter. Even if your family doesn't finish them all, now you can save the extras for breakfast on a jam-packed morning. Not in the mood for sweet? These make-ahead breakfasts or freezer breakfasts are here to save the day.