Blackberry Brie Pancakes with Sassafras Syrup

Step 1

For the pancakes: Add the flour, baking powder and baking soda to a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, granulated sugar and orange zest. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.

Step 2

For the syrup: Place the granulated sugar, sassafras, vanilla and 1 1/4 cups water into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then add the cinnamon stick and remove from the heat.

Step 3

To assemble: Cut the Brie into 1/8 inch-strips, and then into 1-inch squares. Slice the blackberries in half.

Step 4

Heat an electric griddle to 350 degrees F.

Step 5

Use 1-inch ladle to spoon out batter about 4 inches apart from each other. As they're cooking, place 3 pieces Brie and 3 1/2 pieces of blackberry on each and cook until you see bubbles around the edges, about 3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook until you see the Brie melt out the edges and create cheese crisps, another 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the cakes back over for presentation and press on the middles. If they spring back, they’re done. Remove and plate, then top with the syrup.