A pancake bar is the perfect way to start Mother’s Day. And, it is an easy way to include young children to make this a family affair.

To start, grab some small bowls and let everyone pick a topping. Here are some suggestions to get you started: diced fresh fruit (bananas, strawberries, blueberries), TippiTopper (of course), coconut shavings, chocolate chips, plain yogurt and chopped walnuts. Let the kids fill the bowls and allow the older kids to slice the fruit (a pizza cutter is a nice substitute for knives and a bit safer if you are concerned).

While the kiddos prepare the toppings, get the griddle going! In a large bowl mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 5 teaspoons baking powder, dash of salt, pinch of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of unprocessed sugar. Mix the dry ingredients to combine. In a separate bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of milk, 3 tablespoons of organic butter (melted), 2 teaspoons vanilla, and 2 eggs (beaten). Mix together wet ingredients and add your bowl of dry ingredients – combine but don’t overmix! Some lumps are just fine.

Grease your griddle, add your pancake mix and cook both sides until golden brown! If you would like to make flavored pancakes using TippiTopper, substitute a 1/4 cup of TippiTopper in lieu of your all-purpose flour.

Happy Mother’s Day!