Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze

These Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze turn an ordinary breakfast into something unforgettable. With their soft, fluffy texture, rich cocoa flavor, and signature red color, they feel festive yet comforting. The smooth cream cheese glaze melts beautifully over warm pancakes, making every bite indulgent but balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy pancakes with classic red velvet flavor
• Cream cheese glaze adds richness without overpowering sweetness
• Simple ingredients you likely already have
• Perfect for Valentine’s Day, holidays, or weekend brunch
• Easy to make and impressive to serve

Ingredients

Pancakes

• 1 ½ cups all purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 ounces cream cheese softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, melted butter, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it.
5. Pour ¼ cup batter onto the hot surface and cook until bubbles form on top.
6. Flip and cook the other side until set and fluffy. Repeat with remaining batter.
7. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
8. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, then whisk until the glaze becomes smooth and pourable.
9. Stack pancakes and drizzle generously with cream cheese glaze before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother batter
• Add chocolate chips for extra indulgence
• Adjust glaze thickness by adding more milk if needed
• Swap buttermilk with milk plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Top with berries or crushed nuts for texture

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave
• Freeze pancakes in a single layer, then transfer to freezer bags
• Store glaze separately and refrigerate for up to 4 days

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries
• Pair with hot coffee, latte, or warm milk
• Add a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a balanced brunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pancakes in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat gently before serving and add fresh glaze for best results.

What gives red velvet pancakes their flavor?

Red velvet flavor comes from a mild cocoa base combined with vanilla and a slight tang from buttermilk. The red color enhances the visual appeal without changing taste.

Can I make this recipe without food coloring?

Yes, the pancakes will taste the same without food coloring, but they will have a light cocoa color instead of the classic red velvet look.

How do I keep pancakes fluffy?

Avoid overmixing the batter and cook pancakes over medium heat. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes also helps improve texture.

Ready to Make It?

These Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze bring bakery-style flavor straight to your kitchen. Whether you serve them for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home, they always feel special. Save this recipe and enjoy making mornings sweeter.

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