10 Genius Ways to Dress Up Plain Pancake Mix

Carrot Cake Pancakes

Don’t settle for plain! Use a basic pancake mix to make a truly special breakfast like these tempting carrot cake pancakes. Not sure which brand of pancake mix to buy? Check out the brands our editors and the Taste of Home Test Kitchen recommend.

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

These pancakes have less sodium per serving than other pancakes made from mixes. Decrease sodium even further by stretching the mix with banana, oats and walnuts. In our house we just sprinkle these with a little confectioners' sugar, because the fruit is so sweet you don't need syrup. — Patricia Swart, Galloway , New Jersey

Pecan Chocolate Waffles

If you like waffles and chocolate, this recipe is for you. These tender but crunchy waffles are great for breakfast, brunch or an after-dinner dessert. Instead of chocolate topping, top with berries and whipped cream or simply sprinkle with powdered sugar. —Agnes Golian, Garfield Heights, Ohio

Birthday Cake Pancakes

For my kids' birthdays, I like to make these cake mix pancakes. Frosting and more sprinkles seal the deal! —Dina Crowell, Fredericksburg, Virginia

Pumpkin-Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Who can resist a sky-high stack of golden, fluffy pancakes? Pumpkin and chocolate chips take them over the top! —Libby Walp, Chicago, IL

Bacon and Cheese Waffles

Including bacon and cheese in the waffle batter makes an all-in-one breakfast flavor. Freeze extras to reheat another day. —MarGenne Rowley, Oasis, Utah

Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes

These applesauce pancakes are so good, you just might skip the syrup. They were created for Christmas morning but have since wowed folks at church breakfasts as well as family and friends. The cinnamon is a delightful touch. —Richard DeVore, Gibsonburg, Ohio

Peach & Sausage Breakfast Squares

The ingredients may sound unusual, but this breakfast bake is delicious! Sausage, sweet peaches and pancake mix come together for a complete meal in one. —Judith Bowden, Sanford, North Carolina

Easy Gingerbread Pancakes

Molasses and spices turn an ordinary pancake mix into a special breakfast. These are so easy to make that you can have them any day of the week. —Trina Stewart, Yacolt, Washington

Sweet Apple Pancakes with Cider Syrup

What a delightful way to start the day! Sweet apple flavor fills every delectable bite of these flapjacks. For an extra-special treat, top with sour cream and then add syrup. —Janet Vardaman, Zephyrhills, Florida