Can You Cook Pancakes on the BBQ?

There are many ways to cook pancakes, and one of them is on the BBQ—so yes, it’s doable!

You might be sceptical about the taste, especially if you haven’t cooked one on a grill before, but it’s worth a try! Here’s everything you need to know (you might never go back to the frying pan).

How to Grill Pancakes on Charcoal or Gas BBQ

(Image Credit: Flickr)

To grill pancakes on a BBQ, you’ll need a special tool, which can be a skillet or a griddle. Since grills have open grates, particularly charcoal BBQs, both provide a solid surface to hold the batter and cook the pancakes evenly.

A skillet is a traditional frying pan with sloped sides. A griddle is a flat, wide cooking surface that allows cooking multiple items at once.

If you’re cooking for your family for breakfast, a skillet will do, especially if you’re not in a hurry. A griddle might be a better option if it’s for a bigger crowd—flipping is also a lot easier because there’s more room to slide the spatula underneath compared to a skillet.

You can use either of the two on a charcoal or gas BBQ. Preferably, we recommend those made of cast iron or heavy-duty steel, as these materials handle high temperatures well.

Will BBQ pancakes have a different taste?

Pancakes on a BBQ can taste a bit different. With a charcoal grill, you might get a hint of smokiness, while a gas BBQ keeps it closer to stovetop pancakes but with a toasty hint from the open flame.

Can I use a BBQ fire pit for cooking pancakes?

Yes, you can do so, but again, you’ll need to use a skillet or griddle for convenience. Place the pan over the grill grate or directly on the embers, and you’ll have a flat surface for cooking. Keep an eye on the heat, though, as fire pits can have uneven temperatures.

Pancake Grill Recipe

Here’s a simple, quick and easy pancake recipe for you to try on with a BBQ:

Pancake mix

• 1 egg
• 1½ cups milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups self-raising flour
• ¼ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
• ⅓ cup caster sugar
• 25g melted butter
• Strawberries
• Lemon and sugar (perfect for Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day) or golden syrup

Method

1. Whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla together in a bowl.
2. Sift the flour and bicarbonate of soda into another bowl, then stir in the sugar.
3. Make a well in the middle and pour in the milk mixture. Whisk until combined, and be sure not to overdo it.
4. Heat the skillet or griddle on high for 2 minutes. If using gas, turn it down to medium. If using charcoal, move the pan to a cooler spot with fewer hot coals.
5. Lightly brush the plate with butter.
6. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the pan and cook until bubbles form.
7. Once the underside has turned a golden brown, give them a flip and cook for around 3 minutes or until done.
8. Move the cooked pancakes to a plate, then add your favourite toppings—strawberries, whipped cream, ice cream or whatever you fancy.

Tip: While you’re getting the ingredients ready, heat the pan until it’s properly hot. Melt a decent knob of salted butter, then pour in some batter.

Since you’re already at the BBQ, why not throw on some pineapple, banana, or pear for a bit of char? They make great fillings.

Happy pancake grilling, and enjoy Pancake Day if you’re celebrating!