Krusteaz is a popular brand of pancake and waffle mix that can be found in many grocery stores. Their mixes come in a few different varieties, like Buttermilk Pancake Mix, Protein Pancake Mix, and Whole Wheat Pancake Mix. But no matter which one you choose, understanding the serving size is important for getting perfectly portioned pancakes every time. This article will provide a deep dive into everything you need to know about Krusteaz pancake mix servings. We’ll cover the serving size details for their original mix, how to measure servings correctly, how many pancakes you get per serving, and some tips for adjusting servings when cooking. Let’s get started!
What is the Serving Size For Krusteaz Pancake Mix?
The main Krusteaz Buttermilk Complete Pancake Mix has a standard serving size of 1/3 cup. This is the amount of dry mix suggested for making one batch of pancakes. Here is a quick rundown of the key serving size details:
- 1/3 cup of mix per serving
- Makes around 3 pancakes per serving
- A 10.5 oz box contains about 15 servings
- Serving size is about 1.5 oz of dry mix
This serving information can be found on the nutrition label on all boxes of Krusteaz pancake mix. The nutrition facts are based on using 1/3 cup of the mix.
Nutrition Info Per Serving
Here is the nutrition information for one 1/3 cup serving according to the Krusteaz Buttermilk mix label:
| Calories | 100 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 1g |
| Carbs | 21g |
| Protein | 3g |
As you can see, one serving contains 21g of carbs, which mainly comes from the wheat flour in the mix. There is also 3g of protein per serving from the whey powder. So you get a decent nutritional profile in each 1/3 cup batch.
How to Measure Krusteaz Pancake Mix Servings
To get the correct serving size, it’s important to know how to accurately measure the dry pancake mix. Here are some tips:
- Use a measuring cup rather than a scoop or spoon
- Lightly spoon the mix into the cup, without packing it down
- Level off the top with a knife or spatula
- Use a 1/3 cup measuring cup
Measuring correctly ensures you get the exact serving amount. Packed or heaping measuring cups can throw off the proportions and lead to issues with the recipe.
Make sure to level off the mix so it’s even with the top of the measuring cup. The nutrition info is based on level 1/3 cup servings.
Weighing For Accuracy
For even more accuracy, you can weigh the dry mix using a food scale. The serving is 1.5 oz in weight. So you would spoon the mix into the bowl until the scale reads 1.5 oz. This ensures the exact serving every time for calorie counting or macro tracking.
How Many Pancakes Per Serving?
Typically, one 1/3 cup serving of Krusteaz pancake mix will make around 3 standard pancakes. However, this can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the pancakes.
Here is a breakdown of how many pancakes you can expect per serving:
- 3-4 pancakes if making them around 4 inches wide
- 2-3 larger 6 inch wide pancakes
- 4-5 thinner 3 inch silver dollar pancakes
The number of pancakes also depends on how much batter is used per pancake during cooking. Using 1/4 cup batter per standard pancake will yield 3 per serving. While a smaller 2 tablespoon batter amount can make 4-5 pancakes.
Pancake Size and Thickness
So the number that comes from a single serving ranges based on the diameter and thickness of the pancakes. Larger, fluffier pancakes will mean fewer per serving, while smaller flat ones will give you more.
You can adjust the size to your preference, knowing that the 1/3 cup mix amount is generally for 3-4 inch pancakes around 1/2 inch thick.
Adjusting Servings When Cooking
While the package directions are based on 1/3 cup servings, you can easily adjust the servings up or down when mixing pancakes. Here are some tips:
- For fewer servings, use less mix. For 2 servings use 2/3 cup.
- For more servings, increase the mix. For 4 servings use 1 1/3 cups.
- Add more or less milk and egg accordingly to maintain the proper ratio.
- An extra egg can help with more servings for fluffier pancakes.
The key is keeping the mix to liquid ratio consistent even when changing servings. So if doubling a recipe, double the dry mix and the wet ingredients too.
Serving Adjustments
Here are some examples of adjusting servings up or down:
| Servings | Mix | Milk | Egg |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 1/3 cup | 1/3 cup | 1 |
| 2 servings | 2/3 cup | 2/3 cup | 2 |
| 4 servings | 1 1/3 cups | 1 1/3 cups | 3 |
This allows you to scale the recipe up or down based on the number of portions you need.
Tips for Serving Pancakes
Once you’ve made your pancakes using the Krusteaz mix, here are some tips for serving:
- Serve pancakes warm directly after cooking for best texture
- Provide heated syrups and spreadable fruit toppings
- Allow 2-3 pancakes per adult serving
- Set out butter and condiments so guests can customize
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven if not eating right away
Pancakes are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. But if you have to hold them for a short time before serving, you can place them on a sheet pan in a low oven to keep warm and prevent drying out.
For a sweet touch, set out whipped butter, flavored syrups, fresh fruit, and other toppings so guests can create their own perfect pancake stack.
Storing Leftover Pancake Mix
When storing an opened box of Krusteaz pancake mix, be sure to keep it in an airtight container or resealable bag. This prevents the mix from absorbing moisture and clumping over time.
Here are some storage tips:
- Transfer mix to a plastic or glass storage container
- Press out excess air and seal the lid tight
- Use a clip or rubber band to fully seal bagged mix
- Store in a cool, dry spot like the pantry
- Use within 3-4 months for best freshness
Properly stored, the mix will stay fresh for several months beyond any best by date on the package.
Be sure to check for any moisture, clumps, or off odors before using older pancake mix. Frequent opening can shorten its shelf life.
Cooking Considerations
From ingredients to cook time, here are some key points to keep in mind when making Krusteaz pancakes:
- Use milk, water, oil/butter, and eggs
- Avoid overmixing the batter for light and fluffy texture
- Cook on lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium heat
- Flip pancakes once tops bubble and edges are dry
- Cook around 2-3 minutes per side
- Wipe griddle between batches to prevent sticking
Following package instructions ensures your pancakes turn out right every time. If batter seems too thin, add a touch more mix. For thicker pancakes, slightly under-mix the batter.
Test pancake consistency by cooking the first one before adjusting the rest of the batch. This helps achieve the ideal texture.
Troubleshooting Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Runny batter | Add a little more dry mix |
| Tough, dense pancakes | Gently stir just until blended |
| Pancakes stick to griddle | Allow griddle to fully preheat; use more oil |
| Uneven cooking | Adjust heat if griddle is cooking too hot or cold |
With a few simple adjustments, you can get perfect pancake texture and golden browning every batch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your common pancake mix questions:
Does the mix need anything else added?
Yes, you’ll need to add milk, oil or melted butter, and eggs. The required ingredients are listed on the box. Some varieties may also need oil.
Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk?
Low-fat milk is fine, though whole milk makes the richest tasting pancakes. For non-dairy, soy or almond milk work well. Avoid strongly flavored varieties.
Can I use brown eggs instead of white eggs?
Definitely! Brown eggs can be used with no changes needed to the rest of the recipe. The egg color does not impact the pancakes.
Do I need to sift the pancake mix?
No sifting is required since all the dry ingredients are pre-mixed already. Simply measure and add the mix to the wet ingredients.
How long does the mix last past its expiration date?
Dry pancake mix lasts 3-6 months past any ‘best by’ date if stored properly in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. Check for moisture or clumps before using older mix.
Can I freeze leftover pancake batter?
Yes, prepared batter can be frozen in an airtight container for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using. The texture may be a little thicker but still tastes great.
Substituting Ingredients
You can tweak the Krusteaz pancake recipe in small ways:
- Milk: Any non-flavored dairy or non-dairy milk works well. Avoid strongly flavored varieties.
- Oil: Vegetable, canola, grapeseed, melted butter all work well. Avoid strong olive or coconut oils.
- Eggs: Large or extra-large eggs are fine. Reduce egg amount if using jumbo eggs.
- Mix: Use any complete (just add water) style pancake mix 1:1.
For best results, avoid making large ingredient swaps. Small adjustments like milk type or egg size are fine, but stay close to the recipe.
Comparing Krusteaz to Bisquick Pancake Mix
Bisquick is another top pancake mix brand similar to Krusteaz. Here’s how the two compare:
- Ingredients: Both contain wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, whey, and oil. Krusteaz has salt, Bisquick has soy flour and dough conditioners.
- Texture: Krusteaz makes a bit fluffier and lighter pancake. Bisquick is slightly more dense.
- Taste: Krusteaz may have a fresher, homemade flavor. Bisquick tastes sweeter.
- Varieties: Krusteaz offers more flavors including buttermilk, protein, multigrain, and more.
- Nutrition: Very similar in calories, fat, carbs, and protein per serving.
Both make delicious, easy pancakes. Krusteaz focuses more on gourmet flavor while Bisquick offers convenience.
Conclusion
Krusteaz pancake mix provides a convenient and tasty way to whip up diner-style pancakes at home. Thanks to its handy packaging and reliable recipe, it takes the effort out of early morning or weekend breakfasts. Whether opting for their popular Buttermilk mix or exploring protein or whole grain varieties, understanding the correct 1/3 cup serving size is the key to pancake perfection. With the proper prep and cooking methods, this pantry staple makes it simple to enjoy tender, fluffy pancakes any time a craving strikes.
