It's that time of year again- IHOP is serving up free short stacks of pancakes and asking its customers to donate to help children battling critical illnesses during National Pancake Day. Partnered with Kiwanis, an international volunteer organization which is dedicated to children, IHOP needs your help to reach their goal of $5 million dollars to donate to local children's hospitals.
The donations go towards three main charities, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Everyday these hospitals treat thousands of kids with life-threatening illnesses and depend on donations to assure their patients get treated regardless of a family's ability to pay.
The premise is simple: order a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes and IHOP kindly asks you for a donation. Since 2006 IHOP and their guests have raised over $30 million dollars to community partners.
The pancakes are available at participating IHOP restaurants from 7 AM to 7 PM. Limit one free short stack per guest and it must be dine-in.
Okay, so you've got your free pancakes-what should you order along with it? While you can order a standard meal of scrambled eggs and bacon we highly suggest trying out one of these pancake hacks to take your pancakes over the top.
1. Pancake Breakfast Taco
This pancake hack is so simple, you'll be questioning why you haven't tried this sooner. Order a short stack of pancakes along with your favorite combo meal that includes eggs, bacon (or sausage) and hash browns. When the meal arrives place a little bit of each ingredient in the middle of the pancake and fold it over like a taco shell. Drizzle on some maple syrup for good measure and dive in.
And don't be afraid to mix it up however you like. Add in strawberries and whipped cream for a sweet taco or go all out with a filling of country fried steak and eggs.
2. Pancake Sundae
This IHOP hack is best for when you are feeling like something super sweet. Order a short stack of pancakes and an ice cream sundae with either chocolate or strawberry sauce. Once both items arrive turn the sundae over onto the pancakes and enjoy.
