How many calories are in a blueberry pancake with syrup?

November 5, 2025 •

3 min read

A single medium-sized blueberry pancake (6-inch diameter) contains around 171 calories, but once you add a standard serving of syrup, that number increases dramatically. The precise caloric content of a blueberry pancake with syrup varies greatly based on the size of the pancake, the ingredients used in the batter, and, most significantly, the amount and type of syrup drizzled on top.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a blueberry pancake with syrup is not a fixed number; it depends on size, ingredients, and portion of syrup. A medium pancake is about 171 calories, while one ounce of maple syrup adds nearly 100 calories. Learn how recipe variations and toppings significantly impact the total nutritional value.

Key Points

Syrup is the main calorie source: While a medium blueberry pancake has about 171 calories, the syrup can add another 100+ calories per serving.
Portion size is critical: The calorie count depends heavily on the pancake's size and how much syrup is used. A typical restaurant serving could easily reach 700-800 calories.
Ingredient variations matter: Homemade pancakes using different flours or cooking methods will have different calorie counts than those from a prepared mix.
Healthier alternatives exist: Toppings like a fruit compote, powdered sugar, or sugar-free syrup offer lower-calorie options to maintain flavor.
Mindful eating is key: Measuring your syrup and considering ingredient swaps are effective ways to enjoy the meal without overindulging.
Calorie density can vary widely: The final calorie count is a sum of its parts, and understanding each component's contribution is essential for accurate tracking.

The question of how many calories are in a blueberry pancake with syrup is a common one for those watching their diet. The answer, however, is not as simple as a single number. Instead, it is a calculation that depends on several variables. To understand the total calorie count, you must break down the meal into its primary components: the pancake itself and the syrup.

The Caloric Contribution of the Pancake

A basic, homemade blueberry pancake made from a simple recipe typically has a moderate caloric value. Data shows that a single, medium-sized (6-inch) blueberry pancake prepared from a recipe contains approximately 171 calories. This value is an average and can fluctuate based on several factors, including:

Size: A 4-inch pancake might have around 84-95 calories, while a larger, 7-inch pancake can reach 182 calories.
Ingredients: The type of flour (all-purpose vs. whole grain) and the fat source (butter vs. vegetable oil) can alter the caloric content. A whole-grain pancake, for example, is slightly lower in calories but higher in fiber.
Method of Cooking: Cooking pancakes in a pat of butter adds extra calories and saturated fat compared to using a non-stick spray.

The Syrup Factor: A Major Calorie Booster

Syrup is the primary driver of the total calorie count in this breakfast dish. A standard tablespoon of maple syrup contains around 52 calories, with a typical 1-ounce serving (about 2 tablespoons) adding almost 100 calories. Many people use more than a single serving, which can double or even triple the syrup-based calorie load. Furthermore, the type of syrup also matters:

Pure Maple Syrup: Higher calorie density than some processed syrups, but offers more flavor and potentially trace minerals.
Processed Pancake Syrup: Often made with high-fructose corn syrup, providing similar calories but lacking the nutritional benefits of pure maple syrup.
Sugar-Free Syrup: Designed to have significantly fewer calories, typically made with artificial sweeteners, making it a viable option for those monitoring their intake.

Assembling the Full Calorie Picture

By combining the calories from the pancake and the syrup, you get a clearer estimate of the total count. For a common breakfast of two medium blueberry pancakes with a standard 2-ounce serving of maple syrup, the calculation looks like this:

Pancakes: 2 x 171 calories = 342 calories
Syrup: 2 x ~100 calories = ~200 calories
Total: 542 calories (approximate)

This simple example shows how quickly the total can rise, with the syrup contributing a significant portion of the final calorie tally. Large restaurant servings with extra butter or whipped cream can push this number even higher, sometimes exceeding 700-800 calories for a single meal.

How to Control the Calories in a Blueberry Pancake with Syrup

For those who enjoy this classic breakfast but want to manage their calorie intake, there are several straightforward strategies:

Choose a smaller portion size: Opt for a single, small pancake instead of a stack.
Adjust the syrup: Measure your syrup and use less. A single tablespoon can satisfy your craving with half the calories of a 2-tablespoon serving.
Explore healthier alternatives: Consider toppings like a fresh fruit compote, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of low-sugar maple syrup.
Modify the batter: Use a whole-grain mix or a recipe that incorporates healthier ingredients, such as substituting applesauce for some of the oil.

Comparison of Pancake and Topping Options


Item	Approximate Calories (per serving)	Key Difference
One Medium Blueberry Pancake (6")	~171 calories	Base calorie count, depends on batter and size.
1 Oz Pure Maple Syrup	~99 calories	Adds substantial calories and sugar.
1 Tbsp Butter	~102 calories	High in fat and calories, adds richness.
1/4 Cup Fresh Blueberries	~21 calories	Adds natural sweetness, antioxidants, and fiber.
1 Tbsp Sugar-Free Syrup	~5-10 calories	Low-calorie option, contains artificial sweeteners.
1/4 Cup Light Whipped Cream	~40 calories	Adds creamy texture with moderate calories.

Conclusion: A Breakfast of Proportions

The final calorie count for a blueberry pancake with syrup is not a fixed metric but a dynamic number influenced by the specific ingredients and portion sizes. While a basic pancake is a reasonable starting point, the addition of syrup and other toppings can dramatically increase its caloric density. By making conscious choices about serving size and opting for healthier toppings, you can still enjoy this breakfast favorite while keeping your nutritional goals in mind. A mindful approach is the key to balancing indulgence with a healthy lifestyle.

For additional nutritional information and recipes, consult authoritative sources like the USDA FoodData Central database.

Frequently Asked Questions

A single, medium-sized blueberry pancake (approximately 6 inches in diameter), prepared from a recipe, typically contains about 171 calories. This can vary based on the specific ingredients and recipe.

One tablespoon of pure maple syrup adds approximately 52 calories to your meal. Many people use a 1 to 2-ounce serving, which is 2 to 4 tablespoons, significantly increasing the total calorie count.

Restaurant pancakes are often larger and prepared with more fat (butter) and generous servings of syrup, leading to a much higher calorie count. For example, a single, whole-grain pancake with wild blueberry syrup might be 296 calories, but a large restaurant meal with multiple pancakes can be 700+ calories.

Whole-grain pancake recipes can be slightly lower in calories and often provide more fiber than those made with all-purpose flour. However, the caloric impact is heavily influenced by the added ingredients and toppings.

To make the meal healthier, you can use whole-grain flour in the batter, use a non-stick spray instead of butter for cooking, and control your syrup portion. Alternatively, consider using a lower-calorie topping like fresh fruit or a drizzle of sugar-free syrup.

Adding blueberries has a minimal impact on the overall calorie count. A quarter-cup of fresh blueberries contains only about 21 calories, while adding natural sweetness, fiber, and antioxidants.

A typical breakfast of two medium blueberry pancakes with one ounce of pure maple syrup and a tablespoon of butter could be estimated at over 540 calories. This breaks down to roughly 342 calories for the pancakes, 99 for the syrup, and 102 for the butter.