There’s something irresistible about IHOP’s Tres Leches Pancakes, and I’m here to share how you can enjoy this breakfast indulgence at home!
Inspired by the traditional Latin American tres leches cake, these pancakes bring together the flavors of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream in a way that’s truly delicious.
The key to mastering these pancakes is getting the dulce de leche just right for a caramel flavor that shines.
Trust me, the rich, milky syrup and fluffy buttermilk pancakes topped with dulce de leche will make any morning feel special!
How to Make IHOP Tres Leches Pancakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 3/4 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1/4 cup Evaporated Milk
- 1 Egg
- 1 tbsp Butter (melted)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Whipped Cream for topping
- Cinnamon for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2:
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined without over mixing.
Step 4:
Heat a non-stick skillet over a medium-low flame and lightly grease with butter.
Step 5:
Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Serve warm with whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon!
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Mixing it Right
Always mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them to prevent over-mixing and maintain fluffiness.
Perfect Heat
Make sure not to rush the cooking process by keeping your skillet over medium-low heat for even cooking.
Milk Balance
Try experimenting with different ratios of the three milks to suit your taste preference. Find what you enjoy most!
Keeping Warm
If you’re preparing for guests or a large family, keep pancakes warm in a preheated oven at 200°F until serving time.
Topping Alternatives
Consider topping these pancakes with dulce de leche or caramel sauce if you’re aiming for something a bit sweeter.
What to Serve with IHOP Tres Leches Pancakes
Fresh Berries
Pairing tres leches pancakes with fresh berries adds a burst of natural sweetness and bright color.
You could set out a medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on the side for a tasty option.
Try drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over the berries for an extra sweet kick!
Cinnamon Spiced Apples
Lightly cooked apples with a hint of cinnamon make a cozy and flavorful accompaniment.
Start by slicing your apples thinly and warming them up in a pan with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This option adds a warming, autumnal feel that complements the rich decadence of the pancakes perfectly!
Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy and cool contrast to warm tres leches pancakes!
The simplicity of vanilla pairs remarkably well with the complex flavors of the pancakes.
This combination is great for a sweet brunch treat or even dessert.
Mango Slices
Mangoes are an uncommon yet exciting choice to serve.
Their tropical flair and juicy sweetness enhance the richness of the pancakes.
You can slice them up and place them alongside the pancakes, adding vibrant color and fresh taste.
Savory Bacon
For a unique contrast, try crispy bacon on the side.
The savory, salty crunch of the bacon highlights the sweetness of the pancakes.
Bacon serves as a surprising balance to the sweeter elements on your plate.
Variations and Substitutions
Cinnamon Sugar Twist
Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to the top of your pancakes for an extra burst of sweetness and flavor.
This minor addition can make a big difference when it comes to amplifying the overall taste of your breakfast.
You can play around with the amount until you’ve found your perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need to make your pancakes gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend.
This change will help you achieve similarly fluffy pancakes without sacrificing texture and flavor.
I find this substitution to work well, keeping the pancakes as pillowy as ever!
Nutty Banana Pancakes
Incorporating mashed bananas into your batter can transform your pancakes into a fruity snack.
Try mixing in some walnut or pecan pieces if you’re feeling nutty!
This version offers a fun twist, possibly becoming a new favorite for banana lovers.
Dairy Alternatives
For a lactose-free version, use almond milk or coconut milk to replace regular dairy milk in the recipe.
These plant-based options can provide a different, equally delicious flavor profile for your pancakes.
I’ve discovered this swap can accommodate dietary needs while still delivering fantastic flavor.
How to Store Leftover Tres Leches Pancakes
Got some leftover IHOP tres leches pancakes? Let’s make sure they stay as delicious as when you first enjoyed them!
To keep those pancakes fresh, start by placing a sheet of parchment paper between each one. This nifty trick stops them from sticking together in a clumpy mess.
Once they’re separated, you should use an airtight container. It’s crucial in preventing them from drying out or absorbing any fridge odors.
If you’re short on containers, a resealable plastic bag can do the job just as well. Just make sure to press the air out before sealing it up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Mixing the Batter
One common mistake when making IHOP Tres Leches Pancakes is over-mixing the batter.
You want a smooth mixture, but too much stirring affects the pancakes’ texture.
Keeping a few lumps in there isn’t a problem; they will disappear when cooking!
Skipping the Rest
Letting your batter rest is important to achieving those fluffy pancakes you love.
After mixing, letting the batter sit for about 10 minutes helps it relax and rise better during cooking.
You end up with a softer and airier pancake by letting it rest.
Misjudging Heat Levels
Paying attention to your griddle’s heat level is key.
If your pan is too hot, the outsides cook too quickly and leave the inside raw and gooey.
Use a medium-low heat and test it with a small spoonful of batter before cooking the entire batch.
IHOP Tres Leches Pancakes Recipe
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 3/4 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1/4 cup Evaporated Milk
- 1 Egg
- 1 tbsp Butter melted
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Whipped Cream for topping
- Cinnamon for garnish
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined without over mixing.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over a medium-low flame and lightly grease with butter.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon!
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