I Like Bisquick, But These 9 Pancake Mix Alternatives Are Better

Pancakes are one of the most popular American breakfasts, and for good reason. Whether you prefer them with chocolate chips or blueberries, and topped with butter or maple syrup, it's hard to say no to a delicious stack of pancakes in the morning. As a busy mom of three kids, I know how much easier pancake mix can make life when you're running from one task to the next.

If you tend to purchase Bisquick when you need pancake mix, you're not alone. The Bisquick Pancake & Baking Mix, a product owned by Betty Crocker, is one of the most popular options out there. However, it's not necessarily the best option. If you're looking for something healthier or tastier, we've got you covered. These nine pancake mix alternatives are the ones I would choose over Bisquick.

There are many pancake mix options, but my preferences come down to the available varieties, texture, and taste. Next time you plan on making pancakes for breakfast, try one of these options instead.

This post was updated in January 2026 to include updated information about popular pancake mixes and additional editorial enhancements.

Bob's Red Mill is a well-known brand that offers a variety of baking flours, grains, and baking mixes. From tasty options like the Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake Mix to the Fudgy Brownie Mix, Bob's Red Mill has something for everyone to enjoy. If you're looking for a simple breakfast, they offer several options for pancake and waffle mixes.

• Comes in: Gluten Free, Whole Grain Buttermilk, Chocolate Chip & Banana, Homestyle Buttermilk, White Chocolate Chip Strawberry, Paleo, Protein, and Organic Multi-Grain

One of the best things about Bob's Red Mill pancakes is how many options there are to choose from. For those wanting a healthier breakfast, Bob's Red Mill has a whole-grain option. For those with a sweet tooth, there are fun flavors like Chocolate Chip & Banana and White Chocolate Chip Strawberry. No matter what you're looking for, Bob's Red Mill has it all.

Simple Mills sells a variety of snacks, baking mixes, and pancake mixes that are perfect for families looking for alternative options. This brand sells baking mixes made with almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, making it great for those with a gluten allergy or sensitivity.

• Comes in: Original, Original (Protein), Cocoa, and Pumpkin

While this may not be the preferred brand for families without gluten sensitivity, it provides a tasty alternative for those who need an almond flour option. It's also great that the mixes come in cocoa and pumpkin flavors if you're looking for something more unique.

Pearl Milling Company is one of the brands that you've likely seen on the grocery shelf for most of your life. They sell several varieties of pancake and waffle mix, and their consistency over the years is part of what makes Pearl Milling Company such a well-loved brand.

• Comes in: Original, Original Complete, Buttermilk, Buttermilk Complete, Apple Cinnamon Complete, and Protein Complete

With the Complete varieties, you can make simple pancakes by just adding cold water. This brand makes light and fluffy pancakes and even sells a protein variety with 15 grams per serving. In addition to their box mixes, Pearl Milling Company also sells individual servings for mornings when you're in a hurry. These include Chocolate Chip, Buttermilk & Maple, and Blueberry Pancake On the Go.

Hungry Jack is known for many things, including the reheatable Hungry Jack microwaveable syrup they released in 1994 and their simple sides and skillet meals. This brand is also known for its pancake and waffle mixes, which come in numerous varieties.

• Comes in: Complete Buttermilk Pancake, Complete Chocolate Chip Pancake, Complete Extra Light & Fluffy, Easy Pack Buttermilk Pancake, Chocolate Chip Pancake, Extra Light & Fluffy, and Original Pancake

If you're picky about what type of pancake mix you use, Hungry Jack's has all the options you need. With Complete options that only require the addition of water to Easy Packs that only contain one batch of pancakes, Hungry Jack makes it easy for anyone to make pancakes.

King Arthur Baking Company is the king — no pun intended — of pancake mixes. Many people turn to this brand for high-quality flour and other ingredients, but you can also buy your pancake mix from King Arthur.

• Comes in: Buttermilk, Gluten-Free, Gluten-Free Protein, Keto Wheat, Diner-Style, Pumpkin Spice, and Potato

King Arthur has some options that other brands don't have. Not only can you make a fall-themed breakfast with the Pumpkin Spice Pancake Mix, but you can also use their mixes to make homemade potato pancakes. All of the King Arthur pancake mixes are highly rated and help you make a simple and tasty breakfast.

Kodiak has become a popular brand over the past decade, which gained additional attention after appearing on the show "Shark Tank," although the brand did not secure a deal with the Sharks. This brand is known for its focus on healthier options made with whole grains and options high in protein. Kodiak sells a variety of oatmeal, bars, breakfasts, and baking mixes.

• Comes in: Pumpkin, Buttermilk, Chocolate Chip, Dark Chocolate, Blueberry, Raspberry Lemon, Cinnamon Oat, Birthday Cake, Plant-Based, Frontier Oat Gluten-Free, Kernza, Buttermilk & Honey, Quick Mix, Grizzly Size

Kodiak may not be the brand for everyone, but it offers some fun and tasty options if you're looking for a healthier breakfast. The texture and flavor are going to be different than your traditional pancake mix, but you can't go wrong with options like Cinnamon Oat, Blueberry, or Buttermilk & Honey.

Krusteaz is a brand that's been around for nearly 100 years. The original product was a pie crust, but the Krusteaz pancake mix first hit the shelves in 1940. Now, Krusteaz sells pancake & waffle mixes, baking mixes, and batters such as their Chocolate Brownie Batter, Honey Cornbread Batter, and Vanilla Cupcake Batter.

• Comes in: Buttermilk, Heart Healthy Buttermilk, Blueberry, Sweet Cream, Pumpkin Spice, Gluten Free, and Buttermilk Protein

Krusteaz is another classic brand that's been around for a long time. With a variety of pancake and waffle mixes, any of the choices from Krusteaz make for a tasty breakfast. The flavor of the classic Buttermilk Complete Pancake Mix is spot on and made without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Dolly Parton excels at many things — but you might not have known that her brand even makes delicious pancake mixes. This is one of the best pancake mixes out there and is well-loved by fans of Dolly and fans of tasty pancakes.

• Comes in: Buttermilk Complete Pancake Mix

Dolly Parton's pancake mix only comes in one variety, but as a complete mix, it's ready to go with the addition of water. Reviewers mention how great the flavor is — buttery and with a hint of vanilla. You can even pair your pancakes with Dolly Parton's Original Syrup in the shape of a guitar.

It's no secret that we're a fan of Trader Joe's. Not only can you find an endless supply of tasty snacks, frozen meals, and baking mixes at Trader Joe's, but they also sell tons of seasonal items that are worth buying.

• Comes in: Buttermilk, Ube Mochi, and Strawberries & Cream

The varieties available at Trader Joe's change depending on the season. Like the Strawberries & Creme Pancake & Waffle Mix, for example, which is available during the summer. The Trader Joe's Buttermilk Pancake & Baking Mix is always a great option, but the different flavors are worth trying for something new.