Kodiak Cakes Pancake Recipe: If you’re a fan of pancakes but also want to eat clean and hit your protein goals, then Kodiak Cakes pancakes are your new best friend. They’re the perfect combination of comfort food and smart nutrition. Whether you’re rushing in the morning or planning a lazy weekend brunch, this recipe is a game-changer. Kodiak Cakes offers a whole-grain, high-protein pancake mix that’s easy to make and even easier to customize.
But here’s the thing: not everyone knows how to get the most out of the mix. Some people end up with dry, dense pancakes or bland flavor. That’s why this guide exists—to walk you through each step, show you how to elevate the mix, and turn a basic batter into a breakfast masterpiece. So grab your whisk, heat up your griddle, and let’s dive in.
Benefits of Using Kodiak Cakes
Kodiak Cakes aren’t your typical pancake mix. One of the biggest perks? Protein. Lots of it. Depending on how you prepare it (with milk or egg), you’re getting between 14-21g of protein per serving. That’s pretty impressive for a pancake.
Here’s why Kodiak Cakes stand out:
- Whole grains: They’re made with 100% whole grain wheat and oat flour, which means more fiber and longer-lasting energy.
- High protein: Great for anyone looking to build muscle, stay fuller longer, or just maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- No added junk: No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
- Versatile: You can use the mix for pancakes, waffles, muffins, and even cookies.
For athletes, busy parents, or health-conscious foodies, Kodiak Cakes deliver flavor and function. It’s not just a quick breakfast; it’s a smart one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s start with the basics. Below is what you’ll need for the classic Kodiak Cakes pancake recipe using their Buttermilk Power Cakes mix. Feel free to scale up depending on how many you’re feeding.
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk Power Cakes Mix
- 1 cup water (or milk for extra protein and flavor)
- 1 egg (optional, but boosts protein and fluffiness)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts
Ingredient Swaps & Ideas:
- Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version
- Substitute mashed banana or applesauce for egg (vegan option)
- Add Greek yogurt to the batter for extra creaminess
Whether you’re keeping it simple or getting creative, the ingredients are flexible. Just remember: liquid-to-mix ratio matters for pancake texture.
Kitchen Tools Required
Good pancakes aren’t just about the ingredients—they’re also about using the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to get that diner-style fluff and golden-brown perfection.
Essential Tools:
- Mixing bowl (medium or large)
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet, griddle, or frying pan
- Spatula (preferably a silicone one)
- Ladle or 1/4 cup scoop (for pouring the batter evenly)
Optional but Useful:
- Electric griddle for cooking multiple pancakes at once
- Blender if you’re mixing in oats, fruits, or protein powder
- Cooking spray or a dab of butter to prevent sticking
Having the right gear on hand will make cooking smoother and cleanup faster. Plus, using a non-stick pan or well-oiled griddle is your key to that crisp edge and fluffy middle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Kodiak Cakes Pancakes
This is where the magic happens. Follow these detailed steps to cook perfect Kodiak Cakes pancakes—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Step 1: Prep Your Cooking Space
Start by setting out all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—around 375°F is ideal if you’re using a griddle.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In your mixing bowl, add 1 cup of Kodiak mix and 1 cup of cold water (or milk). If you’re adding an egg or any flavorings (like vanilla or cinnamon), mix them in now. Stir gently until everything is just combined.
Step 3: Check Consistency
Your batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too runny, add a spoonful of mix. Too thick? Add a splash of water or milk. Don’t overmix—some lumps are fine.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
Add a little butter or cooking spray to your pan. Test it with a drop of water—it should sizzle lightly. That means it’s ready.
Step 5: Pour and Cook
Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let them cook until bubbles form on top and the edges start to set—about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Flip Like a Pro
Once the edges are firm and bubbles have popped, flip gently. Cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Transfer to a plate and keep warm while you cook the rest. Serve with your favorite toppings or enjoy them plain.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes Every Time
Let’s face it—making pancakes seems easy, but getting them just right can be tricky. Sometimes they’re too flat, other times they’re burned or undercooked in the middle. So here are some insider tips to help you make Kodiak Cakes pancakes that come out perfect every single time.
1. Don’t Overmix the Batter
It’s tempting to stir until the batter is smooth, but that’s actually a mistake. Overmixing can make your pancakes dense and chewy. It’s totally okay (actually, ideal!) if there are a few small lumps in your batter.
2. Let the Batter Rest
Give your batter 5–10 minutes to sit after mixing. This lets the flour hydrate and the gluten relax, which results in fluffier pancakes.
3. Preheat Your Pan Properly
Too hot, and you’ll burn the outsides before the inside cooks. Too cool, and your pancakes won’t get that golden color. Medium heat is the sweet spot. Use a test pancake to check if your pan is ready.
4. Use the Right Amount of Batter
A 1/4 cup scoop per pancake is perfect. It gives them a uniform size and makes flipping easier. Overloading the pan makes everything harder.
5. Don’t Flip Too Soon
Wait for bubbles to form and pop on the surface of the pancake and the edges to look dry before flipping. This prevents batter from splattering or tearing.
6. Only Flip Once
Flipping pancakes more than once makes them tough. Once is enough—patience is key!
7. Keep Them Warm Without Drying Them Out
If you’re making a big batch, place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while you finish the rest.
Stick to these tips, and you’ll be flipping out (in a good way) over how tasty your pancakes turn out!
Creative Add-ins and Toppings
Kodiak Cakes are great on their own, but the real fun starts when you get creative with mix-ins and toppings. Want dessert-for-breakfast vibes? Add chocolate chips. Need an extra health kick? Throw in some chia seeds or fresh fruit. Here’s how to level up your pancakes.
Popular Add-ins:
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark—just a sprinkle goes a long way.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, they burst with flavor in every bite.
- Banana Slices: Mash into the batter or layer them inside while cooking.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and extra protein.
- Shredded Coconut: Sweet, tropical flavor without added sugar.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice for seasonal flair.
Delicious Toppings:
- Maple Syrup: Classic, obviously.
- Nut Butter: Almond, peanut, or cashew butter adds richness and protein.
- Greek Yogurt: Cool and creamy contrast to warm pancakes.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a tangy twist.
- Honey or Agave: Natural sweetener alternatives to syrup.
- Whipped Cream: For treat-yourself days.
You can mix and match these based on your mood or dietary needs. Want something indulgent? Go with chocolate and peanut butter. Need a lighter breakfast? Try berries and Greek yogurt. The possibilities are endless.
Making It Your Own: Flavor Variations
Why settle for basic when you can create a new pancake experience every time? Here are a few flavor-packed ideas that start with the Kodiak Cakes base but take it to the next level.
Blueberry Banana Protein Pancakes
Mash half a banana into your batter, then stir in a handful of blueberries. Add a dash of cinnamon and vanilla extract for warmth. These pancakes are sweet, fruity, and pack a potassium punch.
Peanut Butter Cup Pancakes
Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter (or PB powder) into the batter. Sprinkle in chocolate chips. Top with a drizzle of peanut butter and a little maple syrup. Great for a post-workout meal or weekend treat.
Cinnamon Apple Pancakes
Stir in 1/4 cup of finely chopped apple and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon. The apple softens as it cooks, giving you a pancake that tastes like apple pie.
Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Perfect for fall! Mix in 1/4 cup pumpkin puree and 1 tsp pumpkin spice. Optional: add chopped pecans or a maple yogurt drizzle on top.
These flavor twists aren’t just tasty—they keep breakfast exciting. Plus, they add variety to your meal prep without needing a new recipe every time.
How to Make Vegan Kodiak Cakes Pancakes
Good news—yes, you can make vegan pancakes with Kodiak Cakes! While the mix itself contains whey protein, Kodiak also offers a plant-based version called Kodiak Plant-Based Flapjack & Waffle Mix. Here’s how to prep a fully plant-based version.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Kodiak Plant-Based Mix
- 1 cup plant milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water (vegan egg substitute)
- Optional: vanilla extract, fruit, cinnamon, etc.
Instructions:
- Mix the flaxseed and water in a small bowl and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Stir the mix, milk, and “flax egg” together.
- Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Cook on medium heat, flipping once bubbles appear.
They’ll be just as fluffy and flavorful as the regular version—without the animal products.
Low-Calorie Version of Kodiak Cakes Pancakes
Trying to keep your calorie count in check? No problem. You can still enjoy Kodiak Cakes pancakes with a few easy swaps.
Calorie-Saving Tips:
- Use water instead of milk: Saves 60–100 calories per serving.
- Skip the egg: Eliminates 70 calories (though you lose some protein).
- Smaller pancakes: Make mini pancakes to help with portion control.
- Low-cal toppings: Fresh fruit instead of syrup, or sugar-free maple syrup.
Sample Low-Cal Pancake Recipe:
- 1/2 cup Kodiak Cakes mix
- 1/2 cup water
- Dash of cinnamon
- Topped with strawberries and a few spritzes of whipped cream
This comes out to roughly 180-220 calories, depending on the toppings. Not bad for a satisfying breakfast!
How to Store and Reheat Kodiak Cakes Pancakes
So you’ve made a big batch—awesome! But what do you do with the leftovers? No worries, Kodiak Cakes pancakes store and reheat like a dream, making them perfect for meal prep or saving time during busy mornings.
Storing in the Fridge
- Let them cool completely before storing. You don’t want condensation making them soggy.
- Stack pancakes with a small piece of parchment paper between each one. This keeps them from sticking together.
- Place in an airtight container or ziplock bag.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Freezing for Longer Storage
- Freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour (this is called flash freezing).
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They’ll keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
How to Reheat
- Microwave: Wrap a stack of 2–3 pancakes in a paper towel and heat for 30–60 seconds. Add 15 seconds at a time if needed.
- Toaster: Works well for crisp edges. Toast on medium setting.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for 8–10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
These reheating methods preserve the flavor and texture, so your pancakes taste just as amazing the next day—or even next week!
Meal Prep with Kodiak Cakes
Kodiak Cakes are perfect for meal prep, especially if you’re juggling school, work, gym, or all of the above. You can whip up a batch, refrigerate or freeze them, and reheat on demand for a protein-rich, quick breakfast.
Why It Works:
- Fast to make: Cook a week’s worth in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Add different mix-ins and toppings so it doesn’t feel repetitive.
- Portable: Great for on-the-go breakfasts or even post-workout snacks.
Meal Prep Strategy:
- Batch Cook: Double or triple the recipe.
- Portion & Pack: Use reusable containers with 2–3 pancakes per portion.
- Label: Include the date and flavor (banana, blueberry, etc.)
- Grab & Go: Heat in the morning or eat cold with a smear of nut butter.
Meal prepping pancakes might sound a little weird at first, but once you try it, it becomes a total breakfast game-changer.
Nutritional Information
Let’s break down the nutrition stats so you know exactly what you’re eating. Below is the approximate nutritional value for 1 serving (1/2 cup dry mix) made with just water:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Fat | 2g |
Add an egg? You bump up the protein to 21g.
Use milk instead of water? Adds 8g of protein and 100 extra calories (depending on the milk type).
Topping with peanut butter? Adds flavor, healthy fat, and more protein—but also extra calories, so plan accordingly.
Kodiak Cakes pancakes fit into tons of diets, including:
- High-protein diets
- Balanced meal plans
- Fitness-focused eating
- Weight management routines
They’re clean, simple, and nourishing. No weird chemicals or empty carbs—just real ingredients that fuel your day.
FAQs about Kodiak Cakes Pancake Recipe
Q1: Can I use Kodiak Cakes mix for waffles too?
Yes! Just use the same mix and follow the waffle instructions on the box (typically adds oil or egg). They turn out crispy and fluffy—perfect for weekend brunches.
Q2: Why are my pancakes coming out flat?
Usually, it’s from overmixing the batter or not using egg/milk. Try letting the batter rest, and don’t stir too much. Adding an egg also helps fluff them up.
Q3: Can I use flavored plant milks like vanilla almond milk?
Absolutely! Vanilla almond milk adds extra flavor and sweetness. Just be aware of the added sugars if you’re tracking macros.
Q4: How do I make Kodiak Cakes more kid-friendly?
Add fun toppings like mini chocolate chips, berries, or even a drizzle of honey. You can also make mini pancakes or use pancake molds in fun shapes.
Q5: Are Kodiak Cakes good for weight loss?
They can be! Because they’re high in protein and fiber, they help keep you full. Just be mindful of portion sizes and sugary toppings.
Conclusion
So there you have it—the ultimate step-by-step guide to making amazing Kodiak Cakes pancakes. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weekday breakfast or turning your kitchen into a pancake paradise on Sunday morning, this recipe is endlessly customizable, healthy, and satisfying.
With the right mix-ins, tools, and a few pro tips, you’ll never go back to regular pancakes again. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or treating yourself to a stack with syrup and berries, Kodiak Cakes are a delicious way to power up your day.
Time to heat that griddle, mix your batter, and create the best protein-packed pancakes of your life.
