Start your day with a delightful twist on a classic breakfast! Our "Breakfast Bento with Mini Pancakes" is not just a meal; it's a charming culinary adventure that will brighten your morning and tantalize your taste buds. Imagine fluffy mini pancakes paired with vibrant fresh fruits, all beautifully arranged in a bento box—perfect for those busy mornings or a fun brunch with friends! This Japanese-inspired breakfast is quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a little flair to their breakfast routine. Ready to impress your family or treat yourself? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pancake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Fresh fruits (berries, banana)
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine pancake mix, milk, and egg. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth, ensuring no large lumps remain.
- Melt the butter in a small pan or microwave. Gently fold the melted butter into the pancake batter, stirring carefully to incorporate evenly.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of butter or cooking spray.
- Using a small spoon or squeeze bottle, drop small dollops of batter (about 1-2 inches in diameter) onto the heated surface to create mini pancakes.
- Cook the mini pancakes for approximately 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look dry.
- Carefully flip each mini pancake and cook the other side for an additional 30-45 seconds until golden brown.
- Remove cooked mini pancakes and place on a cooling rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Wash and slice fresh fruits like berries and bananas into bite-sized pieces for bento decoration.
- Arrange the mini pancakes and fresh fruits artfully in a bento box, creating an appealing and colorful presentation.
- Serve with a small container of maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Tips
- Perfect Pancake Batter: Ensure your pancake batter is smooth by whisking thoroughly. If you notice any lumps, continue mixing until the batter is silky and well combined.
- Temperature Control: Keep the heat on medium-low to avoid burning the pancakes. This allows them to cook evenly and become perfectly golden brown.
- Use a Squeeze Bottle: For uniform mini pancakes, consider using a squeeze bottle to dispense the batter. This not only makes it easier but also adds a fun touch to your cooking process!
- Creative Fruit Choices: While berries and bananas are delicious, feel free to mix it up! Try adding kiwi, strawberries, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Bento Presentation: Take your time arranging the pancakes and fruits in the bento box. A visually appealing presentation can make your meal feel extra special!
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the mini pancakes warm alongside the maple syrup. You can even warm the syrup slightly for a cozy touch!
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time in the morning, prepare the pancake batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before cooking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg
