Save Sweet, spicy, and fun, these pancake balls combine the nostalgia of funfetti cake, the heat of Flamin Hot chips, and the fluffiness of pancakes. They are perfect for adventurous eaters or party treats, sure to spark excitement at any gathering.
I created these Flamin Hot Monster Cake Pancake Balls during a game night with friends, and they were an instant hit. The crunch of the spicy chips paired surprisingly well with the tender, cake-like pancake interior—it’s been a favorite request ever since.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g), provides structure to the pancake balls
- Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp, adds sweetness
- Baking powder: 1 tsp, helps batter rise
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp, adds lift and tenderness
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, balances flavors
- Rainbow sprinkles (funfetti style): 1/4 cup, brings color and fun
- Egg: 1 large, binds ingredients
- Milk: 2/3 cup (160 ml), adds moisture
- Buttermilk: 1/4 cup (60 ml), makes the pancake balls extra tender
- Unsalted butter, melted: 2 tbsp, adds richness
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, gives a warm aroma
- Flamin Hot chips (crushed): 1 cup (30 g), brings heat and crunch
- Cream cheese, softened: 1/4 cup, optional filling
- Powdered sugar: 2 tbsp, sweetens the filling
- Extra rainbow sprinkles: for topping
- Additional Flamin Hot crumbs: for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the rainbow sprinkles.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Crunch:
- Gently fold in half the crushed Flamin Hot chips to distribute heat and color.
- Prepare Filling (Optional):
- If using, mix cream cheese with powdered sugar to create a sweet filling.
- Heat Cooking Surface:
- Heat a cake pop maker, aebleskiver pan, or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Grease lightly with butter or oil.
- Portion the Batter:
- Scoop 1 tablespoon of batter into each well. If filling, place 1/2 teaspoon of sweetened cream cheese in the center and cover with more batter.
- Cook the Pancake Balls:
- Cook for 2, 3 minutes until golden on the bottom, then rotate balls or flip in pan to cook evenly on all sides for another 2, 3 minutes.
- Coat and Serve:
- Remove pancake balls and toss immediately in remaining Flamin Hot crumbs for a spicy, crunchy coating. Serve warm, topped with extra sprinkles and crushed chips if desired.
Save Making these pancake balls has become a weekend ritual, with my kids excitedly helping to roll and coat them in spicy crumbs. It’s a playful way for us to experiment with flavors and spend time together in the kitchen.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, cake pop maker, aebleskiver pan or nonstick skillet, small spoon or scoop, tongs or fork are needed to create these snack bites.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat, egg, dairy, and possible traces of soy. Be sure to read ingredient labels carefully if allergy concerns are present.
Nutritional Information
One serving (five pancake balls) has about 260 calories, 9 g fat, 39 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein, making it an indulgent but shareable treat.
Save Serve these pancake balls hot for best crunch and vibrant flavors. They are sure to surprise and delight anyone who loves sweet treats with a spicy twist.
Recipe Guide
- → What does Flamin Hot add to the pancake balls?
Crushed Flamin Hot chips introduce a spicy, crunchy texture and vibrant color to each bite, balancing the sweet notes.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
- → How do I ensure the filling stays inside?
Use a small spoon to place cream cheese filling in the center, then cover completely with batter before cooking in the pan.
- → What pan works best for forming round pancake balls?
A cake pop maker or aebleskiver pan ensures even roundness, but a nonstick skillet with careful flipping can also be used.
- → Are there suggested toppings?
Top with extra rainbow sprinkles, crushed Flamin Hot chips, or drizzle with vanilla glaze for more flavor and flair.
- → How spicy are these pancake balls?
The spice level can be adjusted by adding more Flamin Hot chip crumbs or a pinch of cayenne to the batter, depending on taste.