Save A playful, colorful treat combining the fun of monster cake with the fluffiness of pancake bars, topped with gooey cheese and vibrant sprinkles. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a festive snack.
The first time I made these chewy monster cake pancake bars for a family brunch, the kids were mesmerized by the colors and couldn't wait to dig in. They disappeared faster than any other treat on the table, and the cheesy top was an unexpected hit with adults too.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons
- Baking soda: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Rainbow sprinkles: ⅓ cup, plus extra for topping
- Eggs: 2 large
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Sour cream: ½ cup
- Granulated sugar: ⅓ cup
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, melted and cooled
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Shredded mild cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Mini chocolate chips: ¼ cup
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the sprinkles.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sour cream, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine and Mix:
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
- Fill Pan:
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and mini chocolate chips evenly over the batter. Add extra sprinkles for a festive look.
- Bake:
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve:
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then lift out and cut into bars. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save Making these bars together is always a fun family moment. My youngest loves to scatter the sprinkles while my older kids compete for the chocolate chip corners!
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, 9x13-inch baking pan, parchment paper, spatula, knife
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream). Always check labels for possible nut or soy cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 210, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 27 g, Protein 6 g.
Save Share these vibrant treats at a party or sneak into lunchboxes for a delightful surprise. Their playful look and delicious taste are sure to make everyone smile.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use a different cheese for topping?
Yes, you can use mascarpone, cream cheese, or your favorite mild melting cheese for a twist on flavor.
- → Are these bars suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients listed are vegetarian-friendly, including dairy and eggs, with no meat or gelatin added.
- → How can I store the bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days for freshness.
- → Can I substitute the sprinkles?
Absolutely. Use chocolate sprinkles, natural colors, or omit for a different look and flavor.
- → What pan should I use?
A standard 9x13-inch baking pan works best to ensure proper thickness and even baking throughout.
- → Is it important not to overmix the batter?
Yes, stir just until combined to preserve the bars' light, tender texture and prevent toughness.