Take these IHOP pancake rankings into consideration before National Pancake Day

Nic Cazin and Sophia Fisher
February 17, 2023

With IHOP National Pancake Day quickly approaching on Feb. 21, we’re here to give you our candid pancake preferences for this magical day. With tons of pancake staples and seasonal specials, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. We’re going to give you our rankings for the options you’re sure to see on the menu, regardless of when you go. 

  1. Cupcake Pancakes 

While sparking excitement upon first look at the menu, it was as upside down as a pineapple upside down cake. When it arrived, the icing had already melted, creating a goopy mess. When you cut into the pancake itself and take a bite, the icing overwhelmed the usual pancake flavor, making it taste of only sugar. The sprinkles were a nice touch, but couldn’t quite redeem the lack of cupcake pazazz. This pancake could have used some serious cake batter flavor, and a scoop of ice cream wouldn’t have hurt. 

  1. Buttermilk Pancakes

These pancakes were mostly gotten as a palate cleanser, however they exceeded that expectation. Fluffy and incredibly buttery, anyone who likes their breakfasts to be simple and sweet will love this option as it is a classic breakfast staple. If you are looking to spice these up, you can always pair them with one of IHOP’s many syrup flavors, although we suggest avoiding the simple maple. 

  1. Chocolate Chocolate Chip Pancakes

This pancake was the first one we ordered with utmost hope it was about to be the greatest thing we’ve ever eaten. However, there was a little disappointment. With a name like chocolate chocolate chip, the chocolate flavor was very limited. A richer chocolate flavor and chocolate chips inside the pancake was greatly in need, but it was redeemed by the chocolate sauce and chips on top; and it smelled delicious!

  1. Strawberry Banana Pancake

Although this pancake was originally ordered simply because it’s a staple, it turns out tried-and-true has a point. This option ended up being our top pick, especially due to the overall presentation. The strawberry compote was sweet and flavorful, soaking into the pancake and giving it a delicious kick. It also helped balance out the usual overpowering banana flavor. The fruit itself was a nice touch, but the strawberries were a bit bitter, so we ended up taking those off. The whipped cream, differing from the rest of the pancakes’ had a horrendous texture and flavor, so we would recommend asking for none and replacing it with extra powdered sugar. 

When you end up going to IHOP for National Pancake Day, or any other time, we hope you take in our list when considering the menu.