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Spinach Pancakes

If you’re looking for a fun, sneaky way to get kids to eat greens, these spinach pancakes are the move: soft, mild, and bright green (aka “Hulk pancakes”)
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian

Notes

Ingredients 

  • 2 packed cups fresh baby spinach (about 2 oz / 60 g)
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus 2 Tbsp, if needed for thickness)
  • 2 Tbsp Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional — you can skip it)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1–2 tsp olive oil or butter for the pan
Optional kid-friendly add-ins
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (very mild)
  • A pinch of black pepper (for older kids)
  • 2–3 Tbsp shredded mozzarella for extra “pull”

Instructions

  1. Blend the greens: Add spinach and milk to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and bright green.
  2. Make the batter: Add egg, flour, Parmigiano Reggiano, salt, and (optional) baking powder. Blend or whisk until smooth.
    • Batter should be like thick pancake batter. If it looks too thin, whisk in 1–2 Tbsp flour.
  3. Cook: Heat a nonstick skillet on medium-low. Lightly grease with olive oil or butter.
  4. Spoon & flip: Drop batter by tablespoons for mini pancakes (best for kids). Cook 1–2 minutes until set, flip, cook 1 minute more.
  5. Serve warm: Stack them up and serve with dips/toppings below.

Tips and Tricks (So Kids Say Yes)

  • Go mini: small pancakes = less intimidation and more “snack” vibes.
  • No baking powder? No problem: they’ll be slightly less fluffy, still soft and tasty.
  • Make it “pizza-style”: add a little mozzarella on top right after pouring the batter, then flip.
  • Best dips for picky eaters: ketchup, plain Greek yogurt, ranch, or cream cheese.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw and squeeze very dry. Use about 1/2 cup thawed, well-drained spinach.
Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely. Store in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet 30–60 seconds per side.
Can I freeze spinach pancakes?
Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then bag. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or toaster oven.
My batter is too thick / too thin—what do I do?
  • Too thick: add 1–2 Tbsp milk.
  • Too thin: add 1–2 Tbsp flour.
What should I serve with them for dinner?
Try: scrambled eggs, turkey slices, cherry tomatoes, or a simple soup. For toddlers: serve with yogurt dip and fruit.