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Air Fryer Pancake Bites With Syrup - Easy, Bite-Sized Breakfast Treats

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar stirred in)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus a little extra for brushing, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Nonstick spray or a light brush of neutral oil
  • Optional mix-ins: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, blueberries, diced strawberries, or chopped nuts
  • For serving: Warm maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 330°F (165°C). If your model doesn’t preheat automatically, let it run empty for 3 minutes.
  2. Prep the tray or molds: Use silicone mini muffin molds, silicone cups, or a parchment liner with shallow sides. Lightly spray or brush with oil so the bites release easily.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  5. Combine: Pour wet into dry. Stir gently until just combined. A few small lumps are fine. Do not overmix.
  6. Add mix-ins (optional): Fold in chocolate chips, berries, or nuts. If using juicy fruit, pat it dry first to avoid soggy spots.
  7. Fill molds: Spoon batter into the prepared cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This gives them room to puff without spilling over.
  8. Air fry: Cook at 330°F for 6–9 minutes, depending on your air fryer and cup size. They’re done when the tops are set and lightly golden, and a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Rest and release: Let them sit for 1–2 minutes so they firm up. Gently pop them out with a silicone spatula or your fingers.
  10. Serve: Drizzle with warm maple syrup, or serve with syrup on the side for dipping. Add fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar if you like.