Pancakes

Pancakes may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age, as long as they do not contain honey, which is associated with a risk of infant botulism. 

Every culture has its own form of pancake, and most are made by combining ingredients to form a batter that gets fried to make thin cakes, but that is where the commonalities end. Pancakes are wildly diverse: there are buckwheat blini, delicate pancakes like crepes and injera, protein-packed pancakes like lentil cheela and dosa, vegetable pancakes like potato latkes and yachaejeon, and of course, the fluffy American-style pancakes enjoyed at diners and dinner tables alike.

Yes. Pancakes are generally a good source of carbohydrates and can offer some protein and fat. They can also contain a variety of micronutrients, like calcium, various B vitamins, and folate.

Never serve pancakes that contain honey to babies under 12 months of age, as honey is associated with a risk of infant botulism. If you have pancakes topped with sweeteners like maple syrup or powdered sugar, it’s fine to share an occasional taste with baby as part of a varied diet. That said, it can be beneficial to wait until the child is older to regularly offer sugary foods to help support baby’s oral health and ensure that baby has space in the belly to explore a variety of nourishing foods. If the family would like low- or no-sugar options to serve with pancakes, try unsweetened applesauce or other fruit compotes, berry sauces, whipped heavy cream, or plain yogurt.

Yes. Pancakes are often made with wheat, dairy, and eggs, and may also include other common food allergens such as soy, peanut, tree nuts, seafood (like shrimp), or sesame depending on the type of pancakes.

You will have more control over the ingredients when preparing pancakes from scratch at home. When you want to offer pre-made pancakes, be mindful of food allergies and check the ingredient list carefully every time. Ingredients and recipes vary from one pre-made pancake to another.

Prior to sharing pancakes with baby, it is important to introduce common food allergens on their own and rule them out as allergens before serving them together in a prepared food. This way, you’ll be able to identify which allergen is responsible if baby has a reaction. Then, when you are ready to offer pancakes, you will be confident that they have already safely eaten any common food allergens in the dish.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

No. Pancakes present a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve pancakes in an age-appropriate way. Note that pancakes, especially when dry, can get sticky in the mouth when mixed with saliva and can cause baby to gag. Serving alongside a cup of water can help. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and gagging and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

Yes. An occasional taste of whatever pancakes you are having won’t hurt (as long as they are free of honey), but aim for moderation if the pancakes are very high in sodium or sugar.