Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent Red Velvet Pancakes are a luxurious twist on a breakfast favorite, blending the rich, chocolatey flavor of red velvet cake with the fluffiness of classic pancakes. These vibrant red pancakes are perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or weekend brunches. Topped with cream cheese glaze or whipped cream, they deliver both stunning presentation and indulgent taste.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltbaking powdersugarunsweetened cocoa powderbuttermilkmelted buttermelted cream cheesevanilla extracteggsred food coloring
directions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined; do not overmix.
Heat a lightly greased nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface; flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining batter.
Serve warm with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or your favorite syrup.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 pancakes.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence.
Top with fresh berries for a fruity contrast.
Use whipped cream and crushed pecans for a Southern twist.
Make them into pancake stacks with layers of cream cheese frosting in between.
storage/reheating
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in a skillet over low heat.
To freeze, place cooled pancakes between layers of parchment paper and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
FAQs
What gives red velvet pancakes their red color?
Red food coloring, combined with cocoa powder, creates the signature red velvet hue.
Can I make these pancakes without food coloring?
Yes, but they will lose the iconic red appearance.
Is the cocoa flavor strong?
No, it’s mild and balanced, just enough to hint at chocolate.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Buttermilk is recommended for texture and tang, but you can substitute with milk and a teaspoon of vinegar.
Can I use pancake mix?
For best results, make the batter from scratch, but a mix can work with added cocoa and coloring.
What kind of syrup pairs best with these?
Cream cheese glaze or classic maple syrup works beautifully.
How do I prevent dry pancakes?
Avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overcook.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan butter.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, this recipe scales well.
Are they good for kids?
Yes, they’re fun, festive, and deliciously sweet.
Conclusion
Decadent Red Velvet Pancakes bring a touch of dessert to breakfast with their rich flavor and eye-catching color. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, these pancakes deliver a memorable, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s as delightful to eat as they are to serve.
PrintDecadent Red Velvet Pancakes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes (serves 2–3) 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy, rich red velvet pancakes with a hint of cocoa and a creamy cream cheese drizzle—perfect for an indulgent breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- For the drizzle:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
- Pour about ¼ cup batter per pancake onto the skillet.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more until golden and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, whisk cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until drizzle is smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
- Serve pancakes warm, topped with cream cheese drizzle and optional berries or powdered sugar.
Notes
- Use good-quality red food coloring or gel for vibrant color.
- Don’t overmix batter—lumps are okay.
- Buttermilk helps make them tender; you can substitute with milk + 1 tbsp vinegar.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while finishing the batch.
- Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
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