Save A bold and unique fusion of Southern sweet tea, spicy chili, savory garlic, and classic pancake bars, topped with a fluffy cake-like texture and a monster swirl of sweet and spicy glaze. Perfect for adventurous brunches or creative dessert tables.
I first dreamed up these Sweet Tea Chili Garlic Monster Cake Pancake Bars after a weekend of Southern brunch experiments and a craving for bold fusion flavors. The monster swirl was inspired by my kids' love for quirky desserts and colorful treats, making this recipe a memorable kitchen adventure.
Ingredients
- Pancake Bar Base: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups strong brewed sweet tea (cooled), 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled), 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Chili Garlic Swirl: 3 tbsp chili garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade), 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- Monster Cake Topping: 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 large egg, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, green food coloring (optional for monster effect)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sweet tea, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until well combined.
- Combine & Pour Batter:
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Prepare & Swirl Chili Garlic Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix chili garlic sauce, honey, and melted butter. Dollop mixture over the batter and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Prepare Monster Cake Topping:
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, vanilla, and green food coloring (if using) until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the batter and swirl lightly for a monster look.
- Bake:
- Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Slice:
- Cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
Save Making these bars turned into a lively family project we all enjoyed, especially with the swirling part. Everyone got to make their own monster pattern, and it became the highlight of our brunch table.
Required Tools
9x13 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer (for topping), parchment paper, knife (for swirling)
Nutritional Information
Calories: 240, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with iced sweet tea or a spicy chai latte. Try adding mini chocolate chips or roasted nuts for extra texture.
Save Monster Cake Pancake Bars are sure to surprise and delight your guests. Enjoy every bite of this sweet, savory, and spicy treat!
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes these bars unique?
The mix of Southern sweet tea, spicy chili garlic, and creamy topping delivers surprising, balanced flavors in every bite.
- → Can I reduce the spiciness?
Yes. Substitute sweet chili sauce for chili garlic sauce or use less for a milder kick.
- → Is green food coloring necessary?
It's optional—just for a fun monster effect. You can skip it for a classic look.
- → What pans are best for baking these bars?
A 9x13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper gives ideal thickness and easy serving.
- → Which drinks pair well?
Enjoy with iced sweet tea, spicy chai latte, or even cold milk to complement the flavors.
- → Can the bars be made gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but check if other ingredients are also gluten-free.