Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely add blueberries to a Krusteaz pancake mix. Blueberries pair deliciously with pancakes and adding them is an easy way to elevate a basic pancake mix. When adding blueberries, it’s best to gently fold them into the batter after it’s mixed rather than mixing them directly into the batter. This prevents them from getting smashed while mixing. Use fresh or frozen (thawed) blueberries and add as many as you like, though a quarter to a half cup per batch of pancakes is typical. The blueberries will sink a bit in the thick batter but embed nicely when the pancakes are cooked, adding pockets of sweet fruity flavor.
Ingredients Needed
To make blueberry pancakes with a Krusteaz mix, you will need:
– Krusteaz Complete Buttermilk Pancake Mix (or other Krusteaz flavor)
– Water
– Eggs
– Vegetable oil or melted butter
– Blueberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
The amounts of the main ingredients – mix, water, eggs and oil – will depend on the specific instructions on your box of Krusteaz. Most recipes call for:
– 2 cups Krusteaz mix
– 1 1/4 cups water
– 2 eggs
– 2-3 Tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
Once you have combined those ingredients to make the batter, you can add in the blueberries. Use around 1/4 to 1/2 cup.
Instructions
Making blueberry pancakes with a Krusteaz mix is simple:
1. Prepare the pancake batter according to package directions. Whisk together the dry mix, water, eggs and oil until just combined (do not overmix).
2. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flour to hydrate and results in fluffier pancakes.
3. Fold in the blueberries gently. Use fresh blueberries or thawed frozen ones. Fold rather than mix to prevent smashing the berries.
4. Heat up a lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium heat. Pour the batter onto the skillet in circles to form the pancakes.
5. Cook until bubbles start to form on the top, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve the blueberry pancakes warm, with desired toppings like maple syrup, butter, whipped cream, powdered sugar or fresh fruit.
Tips
– Use fresh or frozen (not canned) blueberries. The fresh ones have the best flavor.
– If using frozen berries, thaw them first before adding to the batter.
– Fold the blueberries in gently by hand rather than mixing them in. This prevents them from getting mashed.
– Add the blueberries at the end after mixing up the batter. This keeps their juice from turning the batter blue or purple.
– Use a spatula to fold the blueberries into the batter. Do not overmix once they are added.
– Let the batter sit for 5 minutes before cooking the pancakes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate.
– Wipe down the skillet or griddle between batches to prevent sticking. Lightly oil it again before adding more batter.
– Cook over medium heat. Pancakes can burn quickly on too high of heat.
– The pancakes are done when the tops are covered in small bubbles and the edges look dry.
– Flip the pancakes carefully with a thin spatula. Use a gentle folding motion rather than just flipping them over.
– Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts or banana slices too. Get creative with different add-in combinations!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many blueberries should I add to the pancake batter?
For one batch of pancakes made with around 2 cups of Krusteaz pancake mix, use 1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries. Add on the lower end if you want just flecks of blueberries or the higher end for whole, plump berries in every bite.
Should I mix the blueberries directly into the batter?
No, it’s best to fold them in gently at the end. Mixing them directly into the batter tends to crush them and release too much blueberry juice.
Can I use canned blueberries instead of fresh or frozen?
It’s best to avoid canned blueberries. The freezing and canning process significantly affects their texture and flavor. They become much softer and less flavorful than fresh or frozen berries. Stick to fresh or frozen blueberries if possible.
Do I need to thaw frozen blueberries before adding them?
Yes, frozen blueberries should be thawed and drained before folding them into the pancake batter. Adding frozen berries directly in can change the consistency of the batter as they thaw.
Should I use wild or cultivated blueberries?
Either type works great! Wild blueberries tend to be smaller and more intense in flavor. Cultivated blueberries are larger and a bit milder. Use whichever you prefer the flavor of.
Can I substitute other fruits like raspberries or strawberries?
Certainly! Raspberries, blackberries, strawberries chopped pineapple or mango would all be delicious mixed into Krusteaz pancake batter. Get creative with your own favorite fruit combinations.
How do I keep the blueberries from sinking in the batter?
It’s natural for heavier blueberries to sink a bit in the thick batter. The best way to minimize sinking is to fold them in gently at the end rather than mixing in. Using larger wild blueberries helps too since they will sink less. But don’t worry too much if they do sink – they’ll still taste great!
Why should I let the batter rest before cooking the pancakes?
Letting the mixed batter sit for 5 minutes allows time for the flour to fully hydrate. This results in fluffier pancakes. If you cook the pancakes immediately, the batter won’t have hydrated enough and the texture may be a bit flat.
Should I coat the pan or griddle with anything before cooking?
Yes, lightly coating the cooking surface with vegetable oil or butter helps prevent sticking. Make sure to wipe the pan clean and re-oil between batches for best results.
How do I get the pancakes perfectly round?
Use a measuring cup or ladle to scoop the exact same amount of batter per pancake. Pour the batter onto the hot skillet in circles, starting at the center and working outward. The batter will spread slightly but keep its round shape.
What are some tasty topping ideas for blueberry pancakes?
Popular topping choices include:
– Maple syrup or blueberry syrup
– Melted butter
– Fresh blueberries or strawberries
– Sliced banana
– Greek yogurt or whipped cream
– Powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar or lemon zest
– Pecans or walnuts
– Chocolate chips or peanut butter chips
– Vanilla ice cream or lemon curd
Feel free to get creative with your own favorite flavors! Savory add-ins like bacon bits also pair well with the sweet blueberries.
Storing Leftover Pancakes
Blueberry pancakes taste best fresh but leftovers will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat them in the microwave in 30 second intervals until warmed through. They can also be frozen for 2-3 months. Allow to thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat.
To freeze pancakes:
1. Let them cool completely after cooking.
2. Stack between layers of parchment or wax paper.
3. Place the stack in a freezer bag or airtight container. Squeeze out excess air.
4. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
5. Reheat thawed pancakes in the microwave or toaster until hot. They won’t have quite the same fluffy texture after freezing but still taste great!
Making Pancakes from Scratch
While using a pre-made mix like Krusteaz is quick and easy, you can also make blueberry pancakes completely from scratch. Here is an easy homemade recipe:
Blueberry Pancake Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 Tbsp white sugar
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 2 Tbsp butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup fresh or thawed frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
2. In a smaller bowl, mix together the milk, egg, melted butter and vanilla.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix just until combined (a few lumps are ok).
4. Fold in the blueberries gently.
5. Cook on a lightly oiled griddle over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
6. Top with your desired pancake toppings and enjoy!
The advantages of mixing your own batter from scratch are full control over the ingredients and amounts, as well as a delicious homemade flavor. The downside is it takes more effort than a pre-made mix that just needs water. Feel free to adjust the recipe based on your own tastes!
Conclusion
Blueberry pancakes are a beloved breakfast treat, and it’s easy to mix fresh blueberries into a Krusteaz pancake mix. Simply prepare the batter according to package directions, then fold in 1/4 to 1/2 cup blueberries gently at the end. Cook the pancakes on a lightly oiled griddle over medium heat. Allowing the batter to rest before cooking and being careful not to overmix once adding the berries are keys for the fluffiest texture. Top these flavorful fruit-filled pancakes with desired toppings and enjoy a sweet start to the day!