In a large bowl, whisk together flour (2 cups), cocoa powder (1/4 cup), sugar (1/3 cup), baking powder (2 teaspoons), cornstarch (1 teaspoon), baking soda (1/2 teaspoon), and salt (1/2 teaspoon).
In another bowl, whisk milk (1 1/2 cups), eggs (2), vanilla (1 teaspoon), and oil (2 tablespoons) until combined.
Make a well in the center of dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently fold into the middle with a fork, until just combined (batter will be lumpy). Stir in chocolate chips (1/2 cup) with the fork. Let batter sit for a minimum of 5 minutes, but if you aren't starving, better rest for 15 minutes. Do not exceed: 30 minutes at room temperature. After that, the baking soda loses effectiveness and the pancakes won’t rise as well. Prepare pan while batter rests.
Heat a lightly buttered large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Pour about 1/4 cup batter per pancake, adding more batter to fill the pan without touching (usually 3). Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook 1–2 more minutes until set.
Place your cooked and warm pancake on a plate and serve with garnishes of choice such as more chocolate chips, whipped cream, or pancake syrup. Enjoy!!
Notes
Gather ingredients and equipment first. Pancakes cook quickly, so having everything measured and ready makes the process smooth.
Room temperature ingredients matter. Cold milk or eggs can seize up the batter and reduce fluffiness.
Sift your cocoa powder. Cocoa often clumps — sifting ensures it blends evenly into the flour.
Don’t skip the rest. Letting the batter sit for 10–15 minutes hydrates the flour and allows the baking powder and soda to activate, resulting in a taller, fluffier pancake.
Choose your pan wisely. A well-heated nonstick skillet or griddle gives even browning.