The Pancake Taco
What is the Pancake Taco?
Have you heard about the latest breakfast craze? Just when you thought all the breakfast dishes had been done, up pops something unique and new like this. The basic idea is that instead of a tortilla, you use a pancake for the shell and fill it with your favorite breakfast item or items, like bacon, eggs, and cheese.
What makes the Pancake Taco so great?
Everybody loves tacos, and for good reasons! There’s never a wrong time for tacos, and this breakfast version is great for an early morning meal or brunch. Kids LOVE them! Some say the pancake taco is fast becoming the next "avocado toast" when it comes to foodie trends. The great thing about this innovative approach to breakfast is that it’s easy, fast, and fun to make! You can even have pancake tacos for dinner. When it comes to versatility, the pancake taco has it. Filling options are endless, whether you choose to take the savory route or make something sweet.
Types of Pancake Tacos
Need a little help to get started on the road to discovering your favorite pancake taco recipe? Here are five great ideas to get you going:
1. American breakfast tacos (aka Pacos): Pancake shell with bacon, a fried egg, cheese, salt and pepper, and maple syrup.
2. Corn Pancake Breakfast Tacos: Corn Pancake shell with scrambled eggs, avocado, tomato, scallions, roasted corn, cheese, and a hot sauce of your choice.
3. Churros Breakfast Tacos: Pancakes buttered and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, filled with whipped cream and strawberries.
4. Greek Yogurt Banana Pancake Tacos: Gluten-free pancakes for the shell, filled with Greek yogurt, bananas, and sprinkled with cinnamon.
5. Peanut Butter and Honey Pancake Tacos: Pancake tacos shells with peanut butter spread on the inside, topped with sliced bananas and drizzled with honey. You can also add shredded coconut and/ or chia seeds.
These are just some suggestions to get you going…let your imagination take the wheel and you never know where you’ll end up! For your next breakfast outing check out the Original Pancake House in Cherry Hills or the DTC in Colorado. Our menu gives you plenty of options to choose from so you're sure to find something you like. Save your spot in line by using our Yelp waitlist so you can be seated right away when you arrive! We look forward to seeing you soon!
Pancake Topping Ideas
Whether you choose to have pancakes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they are always a tasty treat. For most of us, pancakes are served up warm, topped with butter and syrup, and although this is a popular and common choice, there are plenty of other pancake topping ideas out there to try. Leftover pancakes make a great snack, whether you eat them cold or heat them up and top them with something special.
Pancakes have been around for a long time, probably longer than you think. Did you know that pancakes were around back in the Stone Age? That’s right; cavemen ate pancakes! Researchers found pancakes in the stomach of Otzi the Iceman, dating back 5,300 years. Ancient Greeks and Romans enjoyed pancakes, too; theirs were made using wheat flour, olive oil, honey, and curdled milk. Pancakes have endured as a favorite treat for thousands of years, and they don’t show signs of disappearing off our plates any time soon.
The best pancake toppings are the ones you love. If you love pancakes as much as we do, you know there are plenty of options to choose from. Chocolate lovers like putting Nutella, chocolate chips, chocolate syrup or chocolate fudge on top of their stack of flapjacks. Another favorite way to top off a steaming stack is with fresh whipped cream and colorful sprinkles -- a classic favorite with kids.
Have you ever tried putting a scoop or two of your favorite ice cream on top of your pancakes? Some people absolutely love their hot pancakes topped with a scoop of cold ice cream, topped with chocolate, butterscotch, or fudge…and maybe a few sprinkles, too. Other topping options for those with a sweet tooth include caramelized peaches and powdered sugar, chocolate sauce and whipped cream, or blackberry preserves with whipped cream.
If you’re not into chocolate or are looking for something a bit lighter for pancake toppings, there are plenty of options available. Fresh fruit and sliced nuts are popular, such as sliced bananas, blueberries, raspberries or strawberries. Other low-calorie possibilities are dried fruits like apricots, raisins, or cranberries, and coconut flakes. If you're looking for a savory option try adding homemade apple butter, peanut butter or another nut butter to the top of your pancakes, or plain yogurt with fruit on top. Lastly, crunchy toppings also make for a great topping; chop up some walnuts, almonds, or pecans and sprinkle these healthy toppings on your pancake goodness. There’s really no limit to what you put on top of your pancakes!
For an excursion into pancake heaven, drop by The Original Pancake House in Denver and experience all the pancake topping ideas we offer. Be sure to use the Yelp waitlist feature on your mobile device to save your place in line.
We look forward to your visit, and we promise you’ll enjoy the homemade goodness of our made from scratch food that has been winning the hearts of Denver residents for decades. Come on down today -- and bring a friend!
Is Putting Ketchup on your Eggs Normal?
The great eggs and ketchup debate has been raging for decades. If you grew up in a household where putting ketchup on your eggs was the norm, this is not a problem or question for you. However, for those of you who grew up never putting ketchup on your eggs, this combination probably seems insane. Many polls come close to splitting 50/50 on this issue, but there is usually a slight majority in favor of no ketchup on eggs. Let’s consider both sides of the debate.
Pro-Ketchup On Eggs
Those individuals who put ketchup on their eggs feel that the saltiness and sweetness of ketchup, along with its tomato-ey acidity, adds a complimentary flavor kick to the richness of eggs (usually scrambled). Ketchup is both sweet and savory, and some folks feel this makes for the perfect topping on their plate of eggs, kicking up the flavor intensity to just the right level. In one survey, 47% of diners preferred to top their eggs with cheese more than any other topping, while only one in four said putting ketchup on eggs was acceptable.
Anti-Ketchup On Eggs
To those who would never put ketchup on their eggs, the thought of doing so is hideous and grosses them out. Many people also find the combination of smells rather repellent. For these folks, putting ketchup on eggs wasn't something they grew up doing. Their reasoning includes the thought that putting something cold such as ketchup on warm eggs is not at all appetizing. Many of these people would combine hot sauce and eggs, however. The prevailing thinking among this group of diners is that ketchup is for French fries, hot dogs, or burgers, but never for eggs.
What We Think
At The Original Pancake House, we think you should have your eggs however you like them, and we offer a variety of toppings and sauces for you to put (or not) on your eggs. If you love salsa, we’ve got it. If hot sauce is your fave, you can have that too. And yes, we have lots of ketchup for those of you who love it on everything…even your scrambled eggs. We don't judge! We want you to enjoy any type of egg toppings your heart desires. Whether you want an omelet, scrambled eggs, or a fried egg, we have plenty of ways to prepare your eggs. You choose how you want your eggs and what you top them with. Come on into The Original Pancake House in Denver and use the Yelp waitlist feature to save your place in line. We look forward to your visit, and we promise you’ll enjoy the homemade goodness of our made from scratch food that’s been winning the hearts of Denver diners for years. Come on down and bring a friend!
Most Popular Different Types of Crepes
Did you know that some of the most popular crepes are actually savory? You may have thought of crepes as a breakfast item, and they are, but these thin and delicate pancakes can be so much more than just breakfast. Although crepes are commonly eaten for breakfast, they can be filled with a variety of spreads, fruits, vegetables, meats, and other items sweet or savory, depending on your preference. When eaten for lunch or dinner, crepes are usually filled with added meats or vegetables. Here at the original pancake house, we have a great selection of breakfast crepes that our customers absolutely love. Check out our selection today by viewing our menu.
Some of the most popular crepes are those that include some type of fresh fruit or jam. Blueberries, strawberries, and cherries are often paired with chocolate spreads, cream cheese, and whipped cream. For a savory dish, crepes egg benedict is a delicious option. Other breakfast crepe choices include ham or bacon, egg, and cheese. Some like to add a hint of sweetness using honey or maple syrup. Although these crepes are technically classified as breakfast crepes, they are great for lunch, snacks, or any time of the day. At the Original Pancake House, we offer crepe lovers both sweet and savory choices such as:
- French crepes - premium strawberry preserves, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with homemade warm tropical syrup
- Cherry Kijafa crepes - Montmorency cherries simmered in homemade Kijafa cherry wine sauce and dusted with powdered sugar
- Continental Crepes - sour cream tempered with TripleSec
- Banana Pecan Praline Crepes - sliced bananas, toasted pecans and warm praline sauce, decadently topped with more of the same and homemade fresh whipped cream.
If you’re looking for savory crepe choices for lunch or dinner, there are several great options. Some of the most popular crepes for dinner include:
- Steak, Spinach, and Mushroom
- Turkey and Pesto
- Spinach and Cheese
- Turkey, Mushroom, and Swiss
- Tomatoes, Pesto, and Mozzarella
- Spinach Artichoke, Chicken, and Cheese
- Chicken, Bacon, Avocado, and Cheese
The possible options of savory crepes for dinner are virtually endless. If you are in the mood to try something different for lunch or dinner, savory crepes are the perfect option!
When you're in the mood for some delicious homemade crepes, stop by The Original Pancake House and enjoy a plate of sweet crepes for breakfast or lunch. Visit us soon at one of our two locations in the Denver area at Cherry Hills or Denver Tech Center, and experience the made-from-scratch goodness that makes breakfast at America’s finest pancake house a great idea any day of the week from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. We look forward to welcoming you!
Low Calorie Breakfast Ideas
Breakfast wakes up your metabolism after a night of sleep and gives your body the fuel it needs to get going. If your body doesn’t get the necessary fuel it needs to ramp up for the day from your breakfast, you may struggle for energy and be more likely to overeat throughout the day. The kind of food you choose for breakfast will set the tone for your energy level that day. A blend of complex carbohydrates, lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber is a great way to give your body some healthy energy at breakfast to kick start the day. Carbohydrates will give your body immediate fuel, while protein will kick in a little later to help you keep going, and fiber keeps you feeling full and helps you avoid overeating. Choose whole-grain cereal and fruit, a breakfast smoothie made from healthy fresh fruit or vegetables and low-fat yogurt, or healthy fats and protein such as nuts and nut butters. Studies have shown that beginning the day with a sugar-loaded breakfast can sabotage your day, setting you up to crave sugary foods that can send your blood sugar on an unhealthy roller coaster ride. Read labels when you shop and avoid items that list any form of sugar in the first few ingredients or contain more than four total grams of sugar. Eating a healthy breakfast will support good overall health, lowering your risk of developing diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and obesity, and boosting memory and concentration.
Eating breakfast doesn’t have to mean eating heavy; a healthy breakfast can be low to moderate in calories and still give you the energy you need to start your day and stay satisfied until lunchtime. When preparing your healthy breakfast, include vitamins, healthy fats and nutrients such as dairy, whole grains, fruits and veggies. Eating a healthy low-calorie breakfast full of nutrients will keep your energy levels steady throughout the morning and lead to more healthy choices that can help with weight loss. A healthy breakfast doesn’t have to take a lot of time either, especially if you put your breakfast together ahead of time. Some healthy breakfast ideas that your body will thank you for include:
- Mini Breakfast Frittatas
- Overnight Oats
- Chia Seed Breakfast Bowl
- Overnight Buckwheat and Almond Parfait
- Cinnamon Raisin Harvest Muffins
- Hash brown Egg Nests with Avocado
- Oatmeal Squares
- Vanilla Chia Pudding
- Stuffed Breakfast Peppers
- Honey Nut Bars
Other healthy low-calorie breakfast choices include egg whites, wheat germ, bananas, berries, grapefruit, smoothies, Greek yogurt, green tea, and oatmeal. All of which can be taken on the go.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try some creative breakfast recipes that are slightly outside the typical breakfast “box” but still healthy, and definitely not boring! Here are a few ways you can get creative with your low-calorie meal:
- Goat Cheese Omelet
- Asparagus and Soft Eggs on Toast
- Avocado toast with Radish
- Yogurt parfait
- Poached Eggs with Mushrooms and Tomatoes
- Gingery Berry and Oat Smoothie
- Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes
A healthy, nutritious breakfast is important to your overall health and wellbeing and can set you up for dietary success all day long. When you’re out and about and need a delicious, nutritious, low-calorie breakfast to start your day off right, stop by and try something from the lighter side of the menu at The Original Pancake House. With two locations in the Denver area at Cherry Hills or Denver Tech Center, you can enjoy the homemade goodness that makes breakfast at America’s finest pancake house a great idea any day of the week from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. We look forward to seeing you at our table!
What to Eat on Christmas Morning
Christmas is right around the corner – have you made plans for your Christmas breakfast yet? The holidays are a time for making precious memories and upholding favorite family traditions. No matter what your traditional Christmas morning looks like, everyone has to eat sometime! Whether your family likes sweet, savory, or a little bit of both, Christmas morning breakfast is the time to get creative. You may spend the morning opening gifts, watching a favorite Christmas classic, or calling relatives across the country, and opt to have a Christmas brunch after the morning festivities. Whenever you eat, you can make your Christmas breakfast or brunch the part of Christmas Day your family looks forward to the most, year after year. The options for making your Christmas breakfast a tradition are endless; you can make the family’s favorite dishes every year to help establish a tradition, or your tradition can be that each family member has their own set of special duties to help pull everything together. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination!
If you’re looking for some Christmas brunch ideas, why not start with some classic favorites such as muffins, baked breads, or cinnamon rolls for starters, then move on to main course items like a hearty breakfast quiche or sausage, egg, and cheese casserole. For those extra hungry holiday appetites, add in French toast, waffles, or your favorite pancakes. To wash all that deliciousness down you’ll need a tasty punch or homemade orange juice for the little ones, and perhaps a few festive mimosas for the older crowd. Invite your loved ones to join you and ask them to bring their favorite dish to add to the bounty. Your family will look forward to this Christmas morning tradition and carry it on in their own homes as they grow up and leave the nest. Get as creative as you like with your Christmas brunch, perhaps giving your special dishes their own special names, like “Elf on a Shelf Casserole” or “Rudolph’s Power Punch” and make it a lasting memory that you can always look forward to on Christmas morning.
To leave time for more fun festivities and spend less time in the kitchen, make some of your dishes ahead of time by using a slow cooker or the oven. Make-ahead breakfast is especially great for families with children, who are more interested in what’s under the tree than what’s on the Christmas breakfast table. See some ideas below for dishes you can make ahead for Christmas morning that your crew can zap in the microwave.
- Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole
- Monkey Bread
- Overnight Yeast Waffles
- Baked Baguette French Toast
- Slow Cooker Cinnamon Rolls
- Overnight Oatmeal
- Cheesy Ham and Potato Bacon Casserole
- Overnight Egg and Breakfast Sausage Strata
- Savory Bread Pudding with Apples, Chard, Pancetta, and Cheese
- Cheesy Breakfast Bake with Bacon, Spinach, Onions, and Potatoes
We hope your Christmas morning breakfast is a joyous occasion for you and your loved ones, no matter what or when you eat. Remember us when you’re out and about doing your holiday shopping this season, and stop in for a delicious homemade meal at one of our two convenient Original Pancake House locations in the Denver Tech Center and Cherry Hills. We’ve got great American classics like bacon and egg dishes as well as breakfast favorites from around the world like our amazing Dutch Baby Pancakes, savory Bacon Belgian Waffles, and mouthwatering Pork Green Chile Eggs Benedict. Stop by seven days a week from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm and share a meal with us. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Top Things to Do in Denver This Holiday Season
Are you visiting Denver this holiday season or live close to the area? Explore all the festive events and FREE activities going on during December and through January in The Mile High City! From stunning light displays to outdoor activities, there’s plenty of options for you. Take the family out for a weekend of fun or make it a romantic weekend with your significant other. One thing is for sure, the list of Denver holiday events makes it the place to be this season!
Holiday Lights
Something about Christmas lights in the cold, crisp air inspires a magical and joyful feeling that you can’t find any other time of the year. Here in Denver, there are several light displays to enjoy like the new Mile High Tree display! Suitable for all ages, there is no shortage to twinkling displays that are sure to entertain the whole family. Every light display has its own, unique theme and style, so there is never a worry of seeing the same thing twice.
Kick-off the holiday season by attending the annual parade of lights on December 6th & 7th in downtown Denver. Once the parade is over, check out the new Mile High Tree standing at 110 feet tall! Both of these Denver Christmas events are FREE to the public and are sure to offer a great time for the whole family!
In search of more light displays to help you capture the glow of the Christmas spirit? Stop by the Denver Zoo to view their Zoo Lights, a tradition that has been going on for 29 years! Or visit the Denver Botanic Gardens to enjoy their Blossom of Light display, featuring dazzling color-changing lights. Both events require tickets, but the few extra dollars are well worth it. Other light displays in the Denver area include Night Lights Denver, Christmas Lights of Denver, Light the Lights, Grand Illumination, Christmas in Color, and more!
Festive Events
If you are looking for something to do during the day or inside, there is no shortage of holiday activities. Start off your day with full bellies by enjoying a delicious brunch from The Original Pancake House. Then make your way to one of the many indoor Denver holiday events. Camp Christmas at the Stanley Marketplace is one of our favorites. From 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., escape the cold by walking through a winter wonderland of history and rituals. The whole family is sure to enjoy this event, it offers a little something for everyone! You can also book tickets to “A Christmas Carol” the musical starting December 5th until December 22nd. Don’t forget to take a stroll through one of the Christmas Markets to pick up presents for all the special people in your life, and make sure you make time for the big man himself…SANTA!
Other events and activities include:
- The Polar Express Train Ride
- 1940’s White Christmas Ball
- Denver Pavilions’ Holiday Carousel
- Santa’s Flight Academy
- Santa’s Village at Chatfield Farms
Continue your favorite family traditions for Christmas in Denver, or explore our list to find new ones to add to your list!
Outdoor Winter Activities
The Mile High City has plenty of outdoor holiday activities for you and the family to enjoy. A popular favorite is ice skating which can be found throughout the city. The most popular location is in downtown Denver at Skyline Park. If you are flying into the Denver National Airport, make a quick pitstop before heading into town by enjoying complimentary ice skating.
If you are looking to get out of town and into the mountains, you’ll find plenty of winter activities.
- Channel your inner child and set up a day of sledding at Snow Mountain Ranch or The Meadows at Elk Camp, Snowmass.
- Visit one of Colorado’s famous ski resorts and spend the day on the mountain skiing or snowboarding.
- Enjoy some outdoor exercise while cross country skiing or snowshoeing.
- And lastly, take a drive out to Estes Park to take in the stunning mountain views.
No matter what activity you decide to do this Holiday season, one thing is for sure… starting off your day with a delicious breakfast meal is essential! The Original Pancake House offers breakfast and brunch from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Denver Tech Center and Cherry Hills. Stop by and let our friendly staff welcome you to Denver this holiday season.
Easy as Pumpkin Pie! Make your own Pumpkin Spice Latte and Pumpkin Pie Smoothies
If you are like us, you are certainly counting down the days till America’s favorite foodie holiday – Thanksgiving! Each year we welcome family and friends to our table to share a feast and give thanks for our many life blessings. If you have friends or family visiting for the long weekend, you’ll certainly need to feed them breakfast in addition to the big feast. Here are a couple of festive pumpkin Thanksgiving breakfast treats to share with your guests:
Pumpkin Pie Smoothies
Ingredients:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup (120g) vanilla Greek yogurt1
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice2
- 1/2 cup (120ml) skim milk3
- 2 Tablespoons (30ml) pure maple syrup
- 2/3 cup (150g) pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup ice
Directions:
- Make sure you have a strong, powerful blender. I like this Ninja or this Vitamix.
- Add all of the ingredients to the blender in the order listed. Blend on high for at least 3 minutes or until smooth - this may take longer if your blender isn't very strong. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
- Add more milk to thin out if it is too thick. Add a couple more ice cubes for a thicker texture, if desired. Add more spices to taste, if desired.
Homemade Pumpkin Spice Lattes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons pure pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for sprinkling
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup hot espresso or strong brewed coffee
- Sweetened whipped cream, for serving
Directions:
Combine the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice and vanilla in a medium microwave safe bowl, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and vent with a small hole. Microwave until the milk is hot, 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk vigorously until the milk mixture is foamy, about 30 seconds. Pour the espresso or coffee into a large mug and add the foamed milk. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
And of course when you get worn out from cooking, join us for breakfast in Denver over Thanksgiving weekend! We’ll be closed on Thanksgiving Day, but will be open and ready to serve you over the rest of the holiday!
DIY: Breakfast Inspired Halloween Costumes!
It’s crunch time - what to dress up as for Halloween? We always opt for breakfast inspired costumes, here are a few of our favorite ideas for easy DIY Halloween costumes.
French Toast - This cute costume idea is a great little play on words and is very easy to throw together! First, find a striped, boat-neck shirt, a beret and perhaps a little red scarf for your neck. Then create your “toast” by using brown and yellow poster-board to create the bread and butter. Use string to tie around your neck and...Voila! French Toast!
Bacon and Eggs - This breakfast-y costume is sure to make everyone’s mouth water! Head to a fabric or craft store to get large pieces of felt - white and yellow for the egg, and red and white for the bacon. Cut appropriate bacon and egg shapes for your front and back. Either glue or sew pieces together for this complete breakfast look! And to add a little fun, the “egg” can add devil accessories to become a “Deviled Egg” and the “bacon” can add a “Kevin” name tag to become “Kevin Bacon!”
Breakfast of Champions: Choose your favorite breakfast item - perhaps a waffle, maybe eggs and bacon, or a stack of pancakes. Create your favorite breakfast item costume using a large piece of felt or poster board for each side of your body. Then, visit the dollar store or craft store to find some ribbons or perhaps a small trophy to carry around as a prop and you are “Breakfast of Champions!”
If you join us for breakfast in Denver on Halloween, you will see our staff all dressed up in fun and spooky costumes! Hope you have a safe and happy Halloween, Denver!
Colorado’s Best Pumpkin Patches!
With Halloween just around the corner, it is time to pick pumpkins! We love to head out on a 
crisp fall day to one of our local Colorado pumpkin patches each year to pick a few pumpkins for our front porch. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite pumpkin patches in Colorado for you to explore and enjoy with the whole family. And of course, we highly recommend you visit us for breakfast in Denver at the Original Pancake House before you head out to the fields, you’ll need a fully belly to help you on your pumpkin search!
Anderson Farms
Location: 6728 County Rd 3 1/4, Erie, CO 80516
Dates: September 21st through October 31st, 2016
This pumpkin patch has something for every age group! With 70 varieties of pumpkins to pick, hayrides, barrel cart rides, petting zoo, zombie paint ball for the older kids, an enormous corn maze, and delicious food offerings, you could spend all day (and night!) at this family-friendly pumpkin patch. Look for the giant pumpkin a top their grain silo as you approach.
Mueller’s Little Farm
Location: 6190 W Bowles Ave, Littleton, CO 80123
Dates: October 15th & 16th, October 22nd & 23rd, October 29th & 30th, 2016
Mueller’s Little Farm hosts their pumpkin patch during the last three weekends of October. This patch features free entry for the whole family, several pumpkin varieties including “jumbo crazy big pumpkins,” home-baked goods, hot coffee and cider, a magic show, toys, slides, a hay bale pyramid, and chickens to feed.
Rock Creek Farms
Location: 2005 S 112th St, Broomfield, CO 80020
Dates: September 24th through October 31st, 2016
Rock Creek Farm features over 100 acres of U-Pick-Em pumpkin fields to explore. In addition they have a hay bale maze and over six miles of corn mazes. Tots will love to check out their pigs, goats, ponies, donkeys, chickens and other farm animals and fall festive treats including caramel apples and baked goods. Moms and Dads will enjoy perusing the selection of fall decorations such as gourds, Indian corn, straw bales and more.
Mile High Farm
Location: 11 Cavanaugh Rd, Bennett, CO 80102
Dates: Saturday & Sunday from October 1st through October 30th, 2016
Mile High Farms features an antique tractor hay ride to and from the pumpkin patch, big and little kid sized corn mazes, bouncy castles, wagon and tractor tire corn pits, Grover’s Garden farm animals, unlimited barrel cart rides, and a farmer’s playground.
Flat Acre Farm
Location: 11321 Dransfeldt Rd, Parker, CO 80134
Dates: September 24th through October 31st, 2016
Douglas County’s newest locally owned and operated family farm, Flat Acres Farm includes a pumpkin patch, a giant bale maze and haunted maze, and a petting zoo. Kids of all ages will enjoy activities including giant jenga, cornhole, duck races, bouncy houses, and a giant swing set.
Happy fall and happy pumpkin picking Denver!
Easy & Portable Summer Snacks for Kids
Does it seem like you never have enough snacks on hand to feed all the hungry kiddos who pass through your kitchen during the summer? We’ve got some easy, delicious, healthy summer snack ideas kids will love for the flavor, color, and crunch, and you’ll love the fact that these summer snacks are both portable and practical. You don’t have to spend a ton of money or take a food design class to produce good looking, tasty snacks your kids will gobble up.
Fruit necklaces
It doesn’t get much more portable than a snack you can wear! All you need is some fresh fruit (we suggest strawberries, blueberries, and grapes), a chunky yarn needle, and some elastic cord and you’ve got a fun summer snack to make, wear, and eat.
Instructions:
1. Wash fruit
2. Cut a two-foot length of elastic cord, thread onto yarn needle, and knot one end
3. Thread fruit onto cord
4. Tie off and wear/ eat
Fruit and cheese kabobs
A great way to use any leftover fruit from your edible necklace project; just add cheese cubes and make fresh, healthy, portable summer snacks on a stick using wooden skewers found at any grocery store.
Fruit salad to go
Small cellophane bags make perfect to-go containers for a fresh fruit salad. Just layer red and green grapes, apple slices, mandarin orange sections, sliced strawberries, and whole blueberries, tie off with ribbon and you’ve got a portable summer snack that is both colorful and fun.
Watermelon Popsicles
Easy-peasy watermelon to go! Simply cut watermelon in wedge-shaped pieces, cut a small slice in the center of the rind, and insert a popsicle stick. Voila! Watermelon popsicles to go! Easiest snack ever.
Veggies and dip cups
Lose the fear of double dippers with these handy portable veggie cups. Choose your favorite dip or hummus flavor and place ¼ cup in the bottom of a plastic cup. Add fresh veggies like asparagus spears, celery sticks, sugar snap peas, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, jicama, and red, yellow, and green bell pepper slices (and any other crunchy veggie long enough to stand up in a cup). It doesn’t get much better than a fresh, healthy summer snack in a cup. You can make these ahead of time and store them in the fridge for easy access.
Blueberry chia popsicles
Easy to make, fun to eat on the go. Just 5 ingredients and the time it takes to freeze, these healthy summer snacks will be a hit with kids and adults alike this summer. Cool off in a deliciously healthy way with these frozen treats.
Instructions:
1. Blend: 1 cup blueberries fresh or frozen
2. 4 tablespoons of chia seeds
3. ½ of a large avocado
4. 1 banana
5. 1 cup almond milk
Pour blended mixture into popsicle molds and freeze (approximately 8 hours or make ahead the night before). Makes 6 to 10 popsicles, depending on the size of your popsicle molds. Any leftovers can be enjoyed as a smoothie.
Homemade granola bars
Kids love granola bars, but store-bought bars can be expensive and loaded with preservatives. Why not make your own at home, and always have some on hand to grab and go? Check out these eight easy gluten-free homemade granola bar recipes From Bless This Mess that include peanut butter, chocolate, nuts, cranberries, and white chocolate.
Whether you choose a fresh fruit treat, crunchy, colorful veggies, and dip, a gluten-free homemade granola bar, or a fabulous frozen summer popsicle, these easy to make portable summer snacks are simple to assemble for your next backyard picnic or a trip to the park, and sure to please even the pickiest snackers.
When you’re out and about in Denver this summer and you need a delicious homemade meal or snack to keep you and the crew fueled up for all your summer adventuring, head on over to one of our two convenient Original Pancake House locations in the Denver area. You can find us at Cherry Hills or Denver Tech Center any day of the week from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Breakfast Recipes for Camping
As the summer draws to a close, lots of families are heading out for one last camping trip. If this is you and you’re wondering what to pack for the family to eat on those crisp mornings around the campfire, we’ve got some suggestions for delicious campfire breakfasts.
First, make sure you have packed everything you need to handle breakfast camping. Use this list to help you as you prepare for your next camping trip:
- Waterproof matches
- Foil
- Utensils for eating
- Cooking utensils
- Sharp knife
- Cast iron pot or frying pan (with lid if possible)
- Coarse salt
- Favorite seasonings
- Cooler
- Ice
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Milk
- Breakfast meat (bacon, sausage links or patties, or other family favorite)
- Plates and bowls
Now that you’ve assembled all the necessary items for a killer meal, here are some favorite breakfast recipes while camping:
Easy scrambled eggs. The trick to this recipe is to mix things up before you leave. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have light, fluffy, delicious scrambled eggs.
- First, scramble your eggs in a bowl with your favorite ingredients; diced ham, onion, shredded or cubed cheese, and seasonings. Once scrambled, pour the mixture into a large zip-top plastic bag and toss it in the freezer overnight. In the morning, load up the cooler with other perishables and place the bag of frozen scrambled eggs on top.
- The next morning, heat a pot of water on your camp stove or over the campfire until it boils and place the tightly sealed plastic bag in the water, reducing it to a simmer.
- Cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Shake the bag around a bit during cooking to ensure the contents are evenly cooked.
- When your egg mixture is light yellow all the way through, your eggs are cooked and ready to serve, with nothing to clean but the empty bag.
Breakfast Egg Bake in Foil. Do you love breakfast casseroles? So do we! Here’s a quick and easy way to get that casserole feeling with tinfoil and a campfire.
Ingredients:
- One 28 ounce package of frozen, shredded hash brown, thawed
- 1-1/1 cups of shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 6 eggs
- ½ cup of milk
Instructions:
- Prepare campfire or grill for medium-high heat.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Stir in thawed hash browns, diced ham, and 3/4 cup of shredded cheese.
- Divide the mixture between four 18x12 inch pieces of heavy-duty nonstick foil. (To ensure no sticking, spray foil with cooking spray or coat with butter or oil.) Fold and seal foil tightly around mixture.
- Place packets over the prepared campfire, camping stove, or grill; cook 9-10 minutes or until hash browns are tender and eggs are cooked through. Open packets carefully. Serve in individual packets or empty onto plates and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Breakfast Bagels. Are you more of a hold-it-in-your-hand kind of breakfast eater? We’ve got you covered! This yummy recipe for breakfast bagels will warm your hands and your tummy at the same time.
Ingredients:
- 3 ounces of smoked ham, bacon, or sausage
- 1 egg
- 1 bagel, sliced
- Butter
- 1 slice of cheese, your choice
Instructions:
- Cook ham, bacon, or sausage
- Fry the egg, flipping to cook it all the way through, breaking yolk to prevent it from making bagel too soggy
- Butter insides of bagel halves
- Place bagel in a prepared hot frying pan or on a griddle with buttered sides down
- Press bagel into a pan to toast
- Trim egg to fit inside bagel; pile trimmings on the top of the egg
- Layer meat, egg, and cheese on one half of cut bagel
- Place another half of bagel on top to make a breakfast sandwich
Breakfast Burritos. How about a really good campfire breakfast you can cook right on top of those leftover coals from last night’s campfire? Enter, breakfast burritos. These burritos can be assembled in your kitchen and packed in the cooler to take along, saving time and mess at the campsite.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup frozen hash browns
- 8 oz cooked ham, diced
- 12 eggs
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, creole seasoning, or seasoning mix of your choice
- 2 cups (8 oz) shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican mix, or family favorite)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1 (4.5 oz) can green chiles (optional)
- 8 (12-inch) flour tortillas
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large frying pan. Brown onions and add hash browns. Cook for 1-2 minutes and add ham. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until mixture is browned throughout (approximately 8-10 mins.)
- While hash browns, onion, and ham are cooking, whisk eggs in a large bowl and add seasoning. Add eggs to browned potatoes, onion, and ham and cook mixture until eggs have set, stirring frequently. Add green chiles, cilantro, and cheese if desired.
- Warm tortillas and put part of the mixture in the center of each, rolling like a burrito, and wrap tightly in tin foil. Place in a zip-top bag for storage in refrigerator or cooler.
- Place foil-wrapped burritos on hot campfire coals when ready to cook. Turn once until packets are thoroughly heated, about 10-15 minutes, depending on how hot your coals are.
There you have it, four great breakfast camping recipes to try the next time you pack up and head for the woods. When you’re back from your camping trip and hanging out in Denver, come by and see us for a delicious homemade meal or snack at one of our two convenient Original Pancake House locations in the Denver area. You can find us at Cherry Hills or Denver Tech Center any day of the week from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. We look forward to welcoming you soon!