Red Velvet Pancakes with Sweet Cream Cheese Topping

Who can resist the allure of fluffy pancakes, especially when they are vibrant red and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting? These Red Velvet Pancakes with Sweet Cream Cheese Topping are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast item, offering a perfect blend of flavors that will make your morning special. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a festive occasion, these pancakes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of red velvet goodness!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Vibrant Color: The stunning red hue makes these pancakes visually appealing and perfect for any celebration.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder, buttermilk, and vanilla creates a deliciously rich flavor that is reminiscent of classic red velvet cake.
• Decadent Topping: The sweet cream cheese topping adds a creamy, tangy finish that elevates the whole dish.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these pancakes are approachable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk (or homemade buttermilk)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel paste recommended)
• 4 tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter, melted
• Two 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons prepared strong coffee
• 1 teaspoon rum (optional)

Equipment Breakdown

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: For mixing batter smoothly without lumps.
• Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: To cook the pancakes evenly.
• Spatula: For flipping the pancakes without breaking them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Electric Mixer: Ideal for whipping up the cream cheese topping quickly.

Mastering Red Velvet Pancakes with Sweet Cream Cheese Topping: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to a measuring cup and filling it with milk until you reach the 1 cup line. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even flavor in your pancakes.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, white vinegar, red food coloring, and melted butter until well blended. The vibrant color will start to come through as you mix.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If the batter appears too thick, add a little more buttermilk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until the other side is cooked through. Repeat until all the batter is used, adjusting the heat as necessary.

Step 6: Make the Sweet Cream Cheese Topping

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and strong coffee. If using, add rum for an extra depth of flavor. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Stack the red velvet pancakes on a plate, generously top with the sweet cream cheese mixture, and drizzle with extra syrup if desired. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Make It Fit Your Plan

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and topping to suit your taste.
• Plant-Based: Use plant-based milk and a vegan cream cheese alternative for a vegan version.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the pancake batter for added texture.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t skip the vinegar in the buttermilk; it adds necessary acidity for the pancakes to rise.
• Be cautious not to overmix the batter; this will result in dense pancakes instead of fluffy ones.
• Make sure your skillet is adequately preheated before adding the batter to avoid soggy pancakes.
• Always test a small pancake first to check the heat and adjust as needed.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place layers of pancakes separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave until warmed through. The cream cheese topping is best made fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pancake batter the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking. The sweet cream cheese topping can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

What can I use instead of red food coloring?

If you prefer a natural alternative, you can use beet juice or powdered beetroot to achieve a similar color, though the hue may not be as vibrant as with food coloring.

How do I know when the pancakes are done cooking?

Pancakes are done when they are golden brown on both sides and spring back when lightly pressed. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Can I substitute the cream cheese topping with something else?

Absolutely! You can use whipped cream, yogurt, or a simple maple syrup drizzle if you prefer a lighter topping.

What to Make After This

• Chocolate Chip Pancakes
• Healthy Pumpkin Pancakes
• Vegan Banana Pancakes
• Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes

Let’s Eat

Indulging in Red Velvet Pancakes with Sweet Cream Cheese Topping is a delightful way to start your day or celebrate a special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a breakfast masterpiece that is sure to impress. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and watch as smiles spread across the breakfast table. Enjoy every delicious bite!