Easy Pancake Mix Cookies (Gluten-Free Option) Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a delightful treat that combines convenience with classic cookie flavor, you’re going to love this Easy Pancake Mix Cookies (Gluten-Free Option) Recipe. Using Kodiak Cakes pancake mix as the base, these cookies capture the buttery, soft, and chewy essence of a traditional chocolate chip cookie but with a unique twist that simplifies the process immensely. Whether you want a quick dessert fix or a crowd-pleasing snack, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results that feel homemade without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, where each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting the perfect texture and taste. From the creamy butter that lends richness to the smooth vanilla that adds a fragrant note, every component enhances the cookies’ delightful character.

• Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds moisture and richness for a tender crumb and luscious flavor.
• Light brown sugar (½ cup): Imparts subtle caramel notes and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
• Egg (1 large, room temperature): Binds ingredients together and helps achieve the perfect rise and chewiness.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Elevates the flavor profile with sweet, aromatic warmth.
• Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk Pancake Mix (1 cup): The secret ingredient that provides structure and a slight tang; choose the gluten-free version for a gluten-sensitive option.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (½ cup): Melts beautifully for pockets of gooey sweetness; using a mix of mini and regular chips creates textural interest.
• Walnuts or pecans (¼ cup): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that balances the sweetness.

How to Make Easy Pancake Mix Cookies (Gluten-Free Option) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This process is key for a light and fluffy cookie base.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into your creamed mixture, blending on medium speed until everything is creamy and smooth. This step builds the structure and flavor foundation for your cookies.

Step 4: Blend in the Pancake Mix

Gently add the Kodiak Cakes pancake mix to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender rather than tough.

Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts or pecans evenly. These mix-ins add texture and bursts of sweetness that make these cookies irresistible.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Although optional, chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes (ideally one hour) allows the flour to fully hydrate and keeps the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 7: Portion and Bake

Use a tablespoon-sized scoop to drop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, keeping enough space between for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, pulling them out when the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underdone for a soft, chewy texture.

How to Serve Easy Pancake Mix Cookies (Gluten-Free Option) Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate can add an elegant touch. Alternatively, a pinch of flaky sea salt sprinkled on top right after baking enhances the chocolate’s richness and balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

Enjoy these cookies with classic accompaniments such as a cold glass of milk or a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Their buttery texture and chocolate pockets pair beautifully with creamy or warm beverages.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a quick dessert. You can also sandwich two cookies with Nutella or peanut butter for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Easy Pancake Mix Cookies (Gluten-Free Option) Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps retain their soft texture and rich flavor for up to one week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating

To bring frozen or stored cookies back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees F for about 5 minutes or briefly microwave them for about 10 seconds. This revives the soft, melty goodness of fresh-baked cookies.

FAQs

Can I use any pancake mix for this recipe?

While Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk Pancake Mix is recommended for its great texture and flavor, other pancake mixes can work too. Just keep in mind that different brands may vary in sweetness and gluten content, which can slightly alter the final result.

Is the gluten-free version as good as the regular one?

Absolutely! The gluten-free pancake mix ensures that those with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy these cookies without sacrificing taste or texture. They come out just as soft, chewy, and delicious.

Can I substitute the nuts or omit them entirely?

Yes, the nuts add a pleasant crunch but are completely optional. You can replace them with other add-ins like shredded coconut or dried fruit, or skip them for a nut-free cookie.

How important is chilling the dough?

Chilling the dough helps control spreading during baking and improves texture, but if you’re in a hurry, you can bake the cookies immediately. They might spread a bit more, so spacing them out is important.

Can I make this dough vegan?

You can try substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a flax egg or chia egg in place of the regular egg. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but it’s a great way to enjoy these cookies if you follow a vegan diet.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pancake Mix Cookies (Gluten-Free Option) Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen for good reason—it’s simple, flexible, and results in irresistible cookies every time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or someone who just craves a warm, comforting treat, these cookies will brighten your day and bring smiles around the table. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll become a staple you’ll want to share again and again.

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