Save A bold fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, these pancake bars bring together the cinnamon-sugar crunch of churros and a tangy buffalo ranch twist in every fluffy, cake-like bite.
I first tested this recipe on a weekend brunch, and everyone loved this unexpected mashup of churros and buffalo ranch. Each batch disappeared quickly, and it's now a requested treat for parties and family get-togethers!
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 2 tsp
- Large eggs: 2
- Buttermilk: 1 1/4 cups
- Unsalted butter, melted: 1/4 cup + 1/4 cup (for topping)
- Vegetable oil: 1/4 cup
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup + 1/3 cup (for topping)
- Light brown sugar: 1/4 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Cream cheese, softened: 1/2 cup
- Ranch dressing: 1/4 cup
- Buffalo sauce (mild to medium heat): 2 tbsp
- Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup
- Ground cinnamon (for churro topping): 1 1/2 tsp
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, oil, granulated and brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
- Prepare Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Buffalo Ranch Swirl:
- In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and powdered sugar until smooth. Dollop mixture over the batter, then swirl gently with a knife for marbled effect.
- Bake:
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the bars are golden and set in the center.
- Topping:
- While warm, brush the top with melted butter. Mix cinnamon and sugar for topping, then sprinkle generously over the bars.
- Cool & Cut:
- Cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then cut into bars and serve warm or at room temperature.
Save This recipe is a favorite when we want something whimsical that brings the family together. My kids love swirling the buffalo ranch mix and topping with cinnamon sugar!
Required Tools
9x13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer or hand beater, parchment paper, measuring cups and spoons, small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting butter, knife for swirling.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (buttermilk, butter, cream cheese), eggs, and gluten (flour). Ranch dressing may include eggs, dairy, and possible soy. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 260 calories, 13 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Save Enjoy these unique pancake bars fresh from the oven—they're best warm and shared with friends!
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy are these pancake bars?
The heat level is mild to medium, adjusted by how much buffalo sauce you add. Use less for a subtle kick or more for extra spice.
- → Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Yes, replace it with a mixture of milk and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before use.
- → What gives the bars their churro crunch?
Melted butter brushed on after baking helps the cinnamon-sugar topping adhere, creating a classic churro-like crunch.
- → Is there a dipping sauce suggestion?
Serve the bars with ranch or blue cheese dressing for added tang and creaminess. Both pair well with the spicy swirl.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake and cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate longer.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
These bars use eggs and dairy but are meat-free, making them vegetarian-friendly if you check all dressing ingredients.