Blake Shelton might be a chart-topping country superstar and a fixture on television, but at home, he wears a much humbler crown—one made of syrup, spatulas, and laughter. According to Shelton, it’s his role as stepdad—and self-proclaimed “Pancake King”—to Gwen Stefani’s three boys that now means the most.

In a recent interview, Shelton opened up about life far away from the bright lights of The Voice and sold-out arenas. His stepkids, he says, couldn’t care less about his platinum records or his spot in a red coach’s chair. “They just want me to make breakfast or drive them to school,” he laughed.

Shelton married pop icon Gwen Stefani in 2021, blending their families and creating new traditions in the process. The Oklahoma native is quick to admit that fame doesn’t mean much in the kitchen. “To them, I’m not a celebrity. I’m just the guy who makes the best chocolate chip pancakes,” he joked. “And honestly, I kind of love that.”

Fans see Shelton in all his country stardom on stage or doling out advice on national television, but at home, the simple joys of parenting take center stage. “There’s nothing like seeing those kids happy — that’s a win bigger than any number-one song,” he said.

Stefani herself has praised Shelton’s natural ability to connect with her sons, calling him “the most consistent and generous presence” in their lives. And for Shelton, the experience of becoming a stepdad has been deeply rewarding—outshining any award or headline.

“I’ve had a great career,” Shelton reflected, “but this—being there for them—that’s what it’s really all about.”

Blake Shelton may have conquered the country charts, but the real legacy he seems proud to claim is right at the breakfast table. “Fame fades, chart positions come and go,” he said, “but being ‘Pancake King’ in a house full of kids? That’s the title I’m happiest to hold.”