Tiramisu Poke Pancakes

Name: Tiramisu Poke Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled; 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional); 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Cocoa powder for dusting

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

I absolutely love starting my day with these Tiramisu Poke Pancakes! They’re an indulgent twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfectly blending coffee and cocoa flavors into a fluffy pancake. As I poke the pancakes to soak up that rich coffee syrup, I can already taste the deliciousness that awaits. The creamy mascarpone topping adds an elegant touch, making breakfast feel like a gourmet treat. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, so let’s dive into this delightful morning delight!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-16T15:00:30.255Z

When I first attempted to make these Tiramisu Poke Pancakes, I was surprised by how easily the flavors combined. The key is in the coffee syrup – just the right amount results in an unforgettable experience with each bite. I remember once serving them for brunch, and everyone was raving about the unique twist! It's amazing how simple ingredients can be transformed into something so divine.

Another tip that I've learned is to let the pancakes sit for a couple of minutes after poking them. This allows the syrup to soak in fully, enriching the taste. Trust me, it's worth the wait. The balance between the sweetness of the syrup and the bitterness of the coffee will have you reaching for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich coffee flavor that awakens your senses
Fluffy texture with a delightful soak of syrup
A savory mascarpone topping for the perfect finish

      

Perfecting the Pancake Texture

Achieving the perfect pancake texture is all about the right balance of dry and wet ingredients. When combining the buttermilk mixture with the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Gentle folding will keep the pancakes fluffy; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The buttermilk not only adds richness but also reacts with the baking soda to create a light and airy batter, contributing to a tender texture.

Additionally, using room temperature eggs instead of cold can improve the batter's consistency and ultimate rise. If your pancakes aren't rising as they should, check that your baking powder is fresh.Expired leavening agents can lead to dense pancakes, so always test for potency if unsure.

The Importance of Coffee Quality

The quality of the coffee you use in both the pancakes and the syrup can significantly affect the flavor profile of the dish. A well-brewed strong coffee will add depth and richness, truly embodying the tiramisu experience. Depending on your taste preference, you might even experiment with coffee blends or flavored coffees to add even more complexity to the dish.

If you're avoiding caffeine, decaffeinated coffee offers a great alternative without sacrificing flavor. Remember, the syrup should ideally have a sweet yet robust taste, so adjust sugar levels based on your coffee's natural sweetness. For a touch of indulgence, consider adding espresso for an even deeper coffee flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Tiramisu Poke Pancakes for a special brunch, consider serving them with fresh berries or sliced bananas. The natural sweetness and tartness of fruit complement the richness of the mascarpone topping perfectly. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor.

For those who enjoy a more traditional tiramisu twist, layer the pancakes with whipped chocolate cream between them before topping with mascarpone. This adds a luxurious touch while staying true to the tiramisu theme. Additionally, these pancakes can be made ahead of time; simply reheat them in a warm skillet or the microwave, then soak with syrup and top with mascarpone before serving.

Ingredients

Pancake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

Tiramisu Syrup

1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)

Mascarpone Topping

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Combine both mixtures and gently stir in the cooled coffee.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.

Repeat with remaining batter.

Make the Tiramisu Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine coffee, sugar, and coffee liqueur (if using). Heat just until sugar dissolves and then remove from heat.

Soak and Serve

Stack the pancakes on a plate, then poke holes with a fork. Pour the tiramisu syrup over the pancakes, allowing it to soak in. For the topping, whip together mascarpone, cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Serve with a generous dollop of mascarpone topping and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Enjoy the decadent flavors of breakfast!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgence, try adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the mascarpone topping.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pancakes are sticking to the pan, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the batter. A drop of water should sizzle and evaporate immediately if the pan is hot enough. You can also grease the pan lightly with butter or oil before cooking each pancake to prevent sticking.

Should your pancakes turn too dark on the outside while remaining raw on the inside, lower the heat. Cooking at a medium-low temperature will allow more time for the insides to cook without burning. Alternatively, test using thinner pancakes with slightly less batter to ensure even cooking.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you have leftover pancakes, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or warm on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. They can also be stacked between layers of parchment paper for easy separation.

For longer storage, you may freeze the cooked pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of coffee liqueur?

You can omit the liqueur or use a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.

→ Can I prepare the batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time; just store it in the refrigerator.

→ How long can I store leftover pancakes?

Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.