Pancakes are a beloved breakfast food enjoyed by many around the world. Soft, fluffy pancakes are often served warm right off the griddle and topped with sweet syrups and butters that complement the flavor profile. When it comes to which syrup pairs best with pancakes, there are a variety of options to consider based on taste preferences and dietary needs.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is arguably the most classic pancake topping. This popular syrup is made from the sap of maple trees and offers a distinctive sweet, rich flavor. Maple syrup has different grades based on color and flavor. The lighter grades like Grade A Golden Color and Amber have a milder maple flavor, while the darker grades like Grade A Dark Color and Grade B have a more robust maple flavor. Maple syrup contains beneficial nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants. The syrup consistency is also nicely viscous so it doesn’t get absorbed too quickly into pancakes. For those that enjoy the quintessential sweet maple flavor profile, maple syrup is likely the top choice for stacking on top of a short stack.
Honey
Raw honey is a wholesome pancake topping choice. Honey offers toned down sweetness compared to maple syrup and has more fruity, floral notes depending on the source of nectar. Using raw, unprocessed honey ensures maximum retention of health-supporting enzymes and antioxidants. Honey works well with added mix-ins like fresh fruit or nuts on pancakes, as it won’t overpower more subtle flavors. The thicker consistency helps keep it on top rather than soaking straight through right away. For those monitoring sugar intake, honey has a slightly lower glycemic index than maple syrup too. Overall, honey makes a tasty alternative to standard syrups.
Fruit Syrups
Fruit syrups offer a nice way to incorporate more fruit flavor into pancakes. Common options include strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, peach, and pineapple syrups. These are made from reduced fruit juices blended with sugar to yield a thick, pourable syrup. The fruit flavors pair especially well with additions like fresh berries or bananas on the pancakes. Fruit syrups contain more intense fruity sweetness than plain maple syrup. They can have added natural food colorings for a bright, vibrant appearance too. Fruit syrups work for those seeking a flavor change up from traditional maple. They provide a sweetness boost along with extra fruitiness.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
For chocolate lovers, chocolate hazelnut spread is a delicious pancake topper. Brands like Nutella contain a luxurious blend of cocoa and hazelnut. The creamy, chocolatey spread melts nicely over warm pancake stacks for a decadent flavor and texture combo. Chocolate hazelnut spreads are thinner than standard syrups, so they absorb more readily into fluffy pancakes. The chocolate notes pair wonderfully with fruit additions too. Banana chocolate chip pancakes with hazelnut spread is a scrumptious sweet treat any time of day. There are even chocolate-hazelnut spreads made with no added sugars or artificial ingredients for a healthier twist.
Butter
Butter may seem too savory for pancakes, but it’s actually a tasty topping in its own right. A pat of melted butter adds a subtle richness and pairs with any mix-ins. Using a high-quality butter can make a difference, with options like European style or small batch butters having deeper, nuttier flavors. Whipped butter also spreads easily without compromising the flavor. Adding a touch of cinnamon, honey, or maple syrup into the melted butter boosts the sweetness too. For those monitoring carbs or sugars, butter has the benefit of adding flavor and moisture without extra sweeteners. A little butter goes a long way in imparting a subtle hint of creaminess.
Whipped Cream
Whipped cream makes pancakes extra decadent. Adding a dollop of airy whipped cream provides a sweet cooling contrast to the warmth of fresh pancakes. Whipped cream nicely melts into all the nooks and crannies of the pancake stack too. Flavored whipped creams like vanilla or coconut lend even more flavor. For a showstopping presentation, top the pancakes with fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries before crowning with whipped cream. The fruit juices will run together with the cream to create a beautiful fruit and cream sauce. Whipped cream gives any pancake combo an extra dose of sweet richness.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is an innovative pancake topping for a protein boost. Plain nonfat Greek yogurt has a pleasantly tangy flavor from the live active cultures. The creamy texture spreads smoothly over pancakes too, evenly coating all the layers. Mix in a drizzle of honey or fruit preserves for added sweetness. Greek yogurt also pairs well with fresh fruits or nuts to create a balanced flavor and texture profile. Thanks to the high protein content provided by Greek yogurt, it makes pancakes more satisfying and can help balance out any added sugars. For those looking for a lighter, protein-packed alternative to heavy cream or butter-based toppings, Greek yogurt is a smart choice.
Nut and Seed Butters
Nut and seed butters like almond butter, cashew butter, and sunflower seed butter deliver a unique creamy nuttiness over pancakes. They provide a nice change of pace from traditional maple or fruit syrups. Thanks to their thick, spreadable consistency nut and seed butters adhere well to pancakes without immediately absorbing in like thinner syrups. They have a relatively low glycemic index too for those conscious of blood sugar levels. Nut and seed butters also contain protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc. Swirling on some almond butter or cashew butter satisfies any pancake craving with a healthy twist.
Dulce de Leche
For those with a particularly sweet tooth, dulce de leche is a divine pancake topper. Dulce de leche consists of sweetened condensed milk slowly simmered until thick, rich, and caramel-like in flavor. The syrupy texture and buttery sweetness is heavenly drizzled over fluffy pancake stacks. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to balance out the intense sweetness too. Though high in sugar, a little dulce de leche goes a long way in providing melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. This popular Latin American topping is worth keeping on hand for special weekend breakfasts.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pancake Toppings
When deciding which syrup or spread to top pancakes with, it helps to consider a few factors:
- Taste preferences – Choose flavors you find most appealing like rich maple or fresh fruit
- Dietary needs – Opt for lower sugar/carb choices if limiting intake
- Added mix-ins – Complement any additional fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips
- Texture – Thicker syrups or nut butters hold up well without absorbing too quickly
- Pairings – Match the flavors of syrups and other meal components like eggs or sausage
- Occasion – Go all out for a celebratory breakfast or keep it simple on a rushed morning
Keeping these factors in mind will help narrow down the best pancake topper for the occasion.
Nutrition Comparison of Popular Pancake Toppings
Understanding the nutritional differences between pancake toppings can further inform decisions:
| Topping | Serving Size | Calories | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maple syrup | 1/4 cup | 213 | 54g | 0g |
| Honey | 1 Tbsp | 64 | 17g | 0g |
| Fruit syrup | 2 Tbsp | 136 | 33g | 0g |
| Nutella | 2 Tbsp | 200 | 21g | 3g |
| Butter | 1 Tbsp | 102 | 0g | 0g |
| Whipped cream | 2 Tbsp | 51 | 2g | 0g |
| Greek yogurt | 1/4 cup | 23 | 4g | 5g |
| Almond butter | 1 Tbsp | 98 | 1g | 2g |
| Dulce de leche | 1 Tbsp | 74 | 12g | 1g |
As shown, syrups, honey, and hazelnut spreads supply the greatest amount of sugars. Fruit syrups and dulce de leche also have higher sugar content despite lower overall calories than some other toppings. Butter has no sugars but packs the most calories per serving compared to other options. Greek yogurt and nut butters deliver protein and healthy fats. Understanding these nutrition facts allows customizing to suit dietary needs and preferences.
Most Popular Syrups for Pancakes in the United States
According to consumer research and sales data, the most popular syrups and spreads for topping pancakes in the United States are:
- Maple syrup
- Honey
- Fruit syrups (strawberry, blueberry)
- Chocolate hazelnut spread
- Maple flavored syrup
Maple syrup tops the list as the classic pancake accompaniment favored by a majority of Americans. Honey and fruit syrups follow closely as alternatives offering fruity sweetness. Spreadable chocolate-hazelnut is rapidly gaining popularity too thanks to its rich flavor profile. While artificial maple flavored syrup lags behind real maple, some still opt for this affordable alternative.
International Popular Pancake Toppings
While maple syrup may reign supreme in the U.S., the preferred pancake toppings vary delightfully across different world cultures:
- Canada – Maple syrup, maple butter
- France – Lemon juice, powdered sugar, fruit compotes
- Norway – Lingonberry jam
- United Kingdom – Lemon juice and sugar, golden syrup, honey
- Sweden – Lingonberry jam, fresh berries, fruit syrups
- Germany – Apple sauce
- Poland – Sour cream, fruit syrups, chocolate sauce
- Russia – Sour cream, honey, fruit preserves
- China – Condensed milk, honey, red bean paste
- Japan – Honey, brown sugar syrup, sweetened soy sauce
From tart lemon juice in France to sweet fruit preserves in Russia, there are so many tasty ways to top pancakes. Testing out traditional global pancake toppings lets you experience fun new favors.
Quick Tips for Topping Pancakes
Follow these tips for topping pancakes like a pro:
- Warm syrups or heat fruit compotes for even coating and moisture
- Drizzle syrups and sauces in a zig-zag pattern for visual appeal
- Let whipped cream and butter sit at room temperature for easy spreading
- Pair thicker nut butters with cut fruit that won’t sink beneath the dense spread
- Use a light drizzle of honey for subtle sweetness
- Dust powdered sugar over lemon juice and pancakes for pretty presentation
- Combine syrups and spreads, like hazelnut and chocolate drizzle
- Refrigerate leftover syrups and fruit compotes for later use
With these handy tips, you can take your pancakes to the next level whether opting for simple or gourmet toppings.
Get Creative with Pancake Toppings
While traditional syrups and spreads are classics, feel free to get creative with pancake toppings too. Here are some fun, innovative topping ideas to try:
- Peanut butter and sliced banana
- Mascarpone cheese and fresh figs
- Cookie butter spread
- Coconut milk and lime zest
- Greek yogurt with mixed berries and mint
- Pineapple salsa
- Lemon curd
- Mango chutney
- Cookie crumble and chocolate drizzle
- Toasted pecans and salted caramel
Let inspiration lead the way when dreaming up tasty new topping combinations. The options are endless for customizing pancakes however you crave!
Enjoy the Perfectly Topped Pancakes
When asking “which syrup is with pancakes,” there are so many delicious options to suit all preferences. Classic maple syrup, fruity honey, rich chocolate-hazelnut, tart lemon juice, and velvety whipped cream all shine in their own right. Getting creative with globally inspired or totally homemade topping combos makes pancakes even more fun. Drizzle, dollop, and slather on your favorite syrups and spreads to craft a pancake masterpiece. Just don’t forget the butter so those fluffy pancakes shine!
