Description
Red Velvet Pancakes are a luxurious breakfast or brunch treat, combining the velvety texture and rich cocoa flavor of classic red velvet cake with the fluffiness of pancakes. Topped with a tangy cream cheese glaze, whipped cream, or fresh berries, these vibrant pancakes are perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day, a birthday breakfast, or whenever you want to add a touch of decadence to your morning. Their striking red hue and delicious taste make them irresistible for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 teaspoons red food coloring (adjust for desired color)
Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional):
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (to thin glaze)
Toppings (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
- Chocolate chips or shavings
- Maple syrup
Ingredient Highlights
- Buttermilk: Essential for achieving fluffy pancakes with a subtle tangy flavor.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds the slight chocolatey taste that makes red velvet so distinctive.
- Red Food Coloring: Gives the pancakes their signature deep red color. Use gel or liquid food coloring as per your preference.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: This glaze mimics the frosting of a classic red velvet cake and adds a rich, tangy sweetness.
Instructions
Prepare the Pancake Batter:
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Adjust the food coloring to achieve your desired shade of red.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay for fluffy pancakes.
Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Pancakes: Scoop about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional):
- Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
Assemble the Pancakes:
- Stack and Drizzle: Stack the pancakes on a plate, then drizzle with the cream cheese glaze or your preferred toppings.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately, garnished with whipped cream, berries, or chocolate shavings if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 6g