Chocolate Flapjacks with Warm Cherry Syrup: A Decadent Dessert
Introduction
Chocolate flapjacks with warm cherry syrup are a delightful treat that can double as a sweet brunch or dessert. This recipe features fluffy, slightly sweet chocolate pancakes made with the richness of buttermilk and the nuttiness of buckwheat flour. The pancakes are perfectly complemented by a warm cherry syrup, which adds a burst of fresh, fruity sweetness. Served with a dusting of powdered sugar and garnished with fresh mint leaves, these flapjacks are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Whether youโre preparing them for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, they will surely impress.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Serving Size: Varies (Approximately 4-inch pancakes per serving)
Ingredients
For the Cherry Syrup
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet cherries | 1/2 cup, halved |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Water (for slurry) | 1/2 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
For the Pancakes
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Buckwheat flour | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Butter, melted | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter (for frying) | 1 tablespoon |
| Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup (for dusting) |
| Fresh mint leaves | A few sprigs (for garnish) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300.3 kcal |
| Fat | 7.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 82.3 mg |
| Sodium | 159.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 57.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g |
| Sugars | 37.5 g |
| Protein | 7.4 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Syrup
- Start by making the cherry syrup. Combine the halved sweet cherries, honey, and 1/4 cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture gently as it heats up, allowing the honey to dissolve and the cherries to soften.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of water with the cornstarch to create a slurry. Set this aside.
- Bring the cherry mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once itโs boiling, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir well to combine.
- Continue boiling for about 30 seconds, then reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the syrup to thicken.
- If the syrup becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Keep the syrup warm while you make the pancakes.
Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the beaten egg until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the buckwheat flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Stir until evenly blended.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until the batter comes together. It should be a little thick but smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Remember, the batter will be thicker than traditional pancake batter, so be sure to stir often to keep it from clumping.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a nonstick griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to the pan to prevent the pancakes from sticking.
- To make each pancake about 4 inches in diameter, use approximately 3 tablespoons of batter per pancake. Pour the batter onto the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the top begins to set.
- Flip the pancake using a spatula, and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until fully cooked through.
- Once done, remove the pancakes from the pan and cover with a clean towel to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 4: Assemble the Chocolate Flapjacks
- To assemble your dessert, place one warm pancake on a plate.
- Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the warm cherry syrup over the pancake.
- Place a second pancake on top, followed by more cherry syrup.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet, snowy effect.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and a hint of refreshing flavor.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the indulgence of chocolatey pancakes with a sweet cherry syrup topping.
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Flapjacks
- Make Ahead: The cherry syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before serving.
- Flour Substitutes: While buckwheat flour gives these flapjacks a unique flavor, you can substitute it with regular all-purpose flour if you prefer a more traditional taste.
- Toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
- Customizing Sweetness: If you prefer your pancakes to be sweeter, increase the sugar in the batter or add a drizzle of maple syrup before serving.
Conclusion
These chocolate flapjacks with warm cherry syrup are the perfect way to indulge in a dessert that feels luxurious but is easy to make. The combination of tender chocolate pancakes with the bright, tart cherry syrup is nothing short of heavenly. Whether served as a sweet brunch or a delectable dessert, theyโre sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat, and donโt forget to add a little extra cherry syrup for an even more indulgent experience.
