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Tender sausages wrapped in a light and fluffy pancake make these Sausage Pancake Dippers a breakfast favorite, especially with kids. They combine the savory satisfaction of fully cooked beef sausages with a sweet, vanilla infused pancake coating that is pan cooked to golden perfection. This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners and promises a fun finger food option for any morning meal or brunch gathering.
I first made these when my kids were picky eaters hesitant to try new things. They became an instant hit, and now they ask for them as a special weekend breakfast all the time.
Ingredients
- Fully cooked beef sausage links: one pound choose quality brands that use natural casings for best flavor and texture
- All purpose flour: one cup the base for the pancake batter opt for freshly sifted for fluffiness
- Granulated sugar: two tablespoons adds just the right touch of sweetness to contrast the savory sausage
- Baking powder and baking soda: one teaspoon baking powder and one half teaspoon baking soda work together to create a light, airy pancake coating
- Salt: one quarter teaspoon balances the sweetness and enhances flavors
- Buttermilk: three quarters cup provides acidity which reacts with the baking soda and tenderizes the batter
- Large egg: one whole acts as a binder and adds richness
- Pure vanilla extract: one teaspoon brings warmth and sweetness to the pancake flavor
- Melted butter: two tablespoons enriches the batter and aids in browning during cooking
- Oil or butter for greasing: ensures the dippers don’t stick and develop a crispy coating
Instructions
- Sausage Preparation:
- Pat fully cooked beef sausage links dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture this step helps the pancake batter stick better and ensures a crisp crust during cooking
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined and aerated to help the batter rise evenly
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and fully integrated this mixture adds richness and flavor
- Create the Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix gently stir just until combined leaving some lumps in the batter this prevents gluten development resulting in tender pancakes avoid overmixing
- Coat the Sausages:
- Dip each sausage link fully into the batter ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides for a perfect dippable finish
- Cook the Dippers:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter to prevent sticking place the batter coated sausages carefully on the hot surface cook for about three to five minutes per side turning occasionally for an evenly golden and cooked coating
- Serve Warm:
- Transfer the cooked sausage pancake dippers to a serving platter and serve immediately optionally with maple syrup for dipping enhancing both sweet and savory notes
My favorite ingredient has to be the vanilla extract it adds such a warm sweetness that lifts the whole dish beyond just simple pancakes and sausage. A memorable moment for me was seeing my youngest light up taking their very first bite and deciding every weekend breakfast had to include these dippers.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Sausage Pancake Dippers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or warm gently in a skillet to keep the coating crispy. They don’t freeze particularly well because the pancake coating tends to lose its texture when thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch up the flavor consider using turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. You may substitute plain yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice for buttermilk if you don’t have any on hand. For a gluten free alternative, try a mix designed for pancakes but expect a slightly different texture.
Serving Suggestions
These dippers are delicious on their own or served alongside fresh fruit like sliced berries or banana. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey is always a welcome touch and you could even offer mustard or savory dipping sauces to play with the sweet savory balance. They also pair nicely with scrambled eggs or a simple green salad for a more complete meal.
Quick to make and endlessly kid friendly, these dippers are a great weekend or special occasion breakfast. Serve them warm with maple syrup or a savory dip for the best sweet savory contrast.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of sausages work best?
Fully cooked beef sausage links are ideal for even heating and a crisp coating.
- → How do I prevent the pancake batter from overmixing?
Stir the batter gently until just combined; some lumps are fine and help maintain fluffiness.
- → What cooking fat should I use for pan frying?
Use oil or melted butter to lightly grease the skillet for a golden, nonstick surface.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, sausages can be dipped and refrigerated briefly, but cook fresh for the best texture.
- → What serving suggestions complement this dish?
Serve warm with maple syrup or a fruit side to balance the savory and sweet flavors.