Red Velvet Pancakes

Red Velvet Pancakes are a decadent and eye-catching twist on traditional pancakes, featuring the signature cocoa-infused flavor and deep red color of classic red velvet cake. These fluffy, rich pancakes are perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or weekend brunch when you want to impress with something sweet and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique and beautiful presentation
• Rich cocoa and vanilla flavor
• Fluffy and tender pancake texture
• Perfect for celebrations or a fun brunch
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Pairs wonderfully with cream cheese glaze or syrup
• Kid-approved and fun to eat
• Can be made ahead and reheated
• Customizable with toppings like berries or chocolate chips
• Adds a festive touch to any breakfast table

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Salt
• Buttermilk (or milk + vinegar/lemon juice)
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Red food coloring
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk for glaze

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges begin to set, about 2–3 minutes.
6. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until cooked through.
7. Serve warm with cream cheese glaze, maple syrup, or your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 (makes about 10–12 pancakes).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips for a double chocolate version
• Use a heart-shaped mold for festive pancakes
• Top with whipped cream and fresh berries
• Make mini pancakes for a fun pancake stack
• Use a dairy-free milk and butter substitute for a non-dairy version
• Add a splash of espresso for mocha flavor

storage/reheating

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a skillet over low heat.
Freeze pancakes in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven.

FAQs

Can I make these without food coloring?

Yes, but they won’t have the signature red velvet color. You can use beet powder as a natural alternative.

What makes them “red velvet”?

The cocoa, vanilla, and red coloring combined with a slight tang from buttermilk mimic the flavor of red velvet cake.

Can I use pancake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?

You can, but the results may be less rich. Add cocoa powder, vanilla, and coloring to enhance flavor.

What toppings go best with red velvet pancakes?

Cream cheese glaze, whipped cream, berries, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make it fresh, but you can mix dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, or make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into 1 cup of milk.

Are these pancakes sweet?

They have a mildly sweet, cake-like flavor but aren’t overly sugary—perfect for pairing with syrup or glaze.

How do I make cream cheese glaze?

Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm before serving?

Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Pancakes are a show-stopping breakfast treat that brings all the charm of red velvet cake to your morning plate. Fluffy, flavorful, and fun to eat, they’re ideal for celebrations or just when you want to start the day with something special. With their rich taste and beautiful color, these pancakes are sure to impress every time.

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