If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe is your new best friend. Fluffy, tender pancakes are infused with fragrant vanilla and studded with juicy fresh strawberries, creating a delightful harmony of sweet and fruity flavors. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, these pancakes bring sunshine and smiles to your table, making every bite irresistible and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients—each one plays a vital role in ensuring the perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the tangy buttermilk that adds tenderness to the fresh strawberries bursting with sweetness, these ingredients transform ordinary pancakes into something extraordinary.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure that makes the pancakes fluffy and soft.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the tartness of the strawberries.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise for a light and airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a gentle lift and even crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and creates balance.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Brings a slight tang and moisture for soft, tender pancakes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the batter for the perfect consistency.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Infuses flavor and keeps pancakes moist.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a delightful aroma that makes these pancakes extra special.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced: Bursts of juicy sweetness throughout every bite.
- Extra butter or oil for cooking: Prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden crust.
How to Make Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination creates the perfect foundation for your pancakes, ensuring they rise beautifully while maintaining just the right balance of sweetness and flavor.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. The buttermilk’s tang combined with vanilla infuses the batter with flavor and tenderness that your pancakes will thank you for.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix—some lumps are perfectly fine! Overworking the batter can make pancakes tough, so keep it light and airy for that flawless texture.
Step 4: Fold in Strawberries
Gently fold the diced fresh strawberries into the batter. These sweet bursts of fruit will add moisture, a fresh flavor, and beautiful spots of color throughout each pancake.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, then lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface, giving yourself enough space so they don’t merge.
Step 6: Flip and Finish
Cook until bubbles form across the top, about 2 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the other side is golden brown. This step locks in that fluffy texture while creating a beautiful crust.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve your Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe warm, fresh off the griddle to enjoy the full burst of flavors and warmth that make these pancakes so heartwarming and rewarding.
How to Serve Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Top these pancakes with extra fresh strawberries for a vibrant pop of color and sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a gentle sweetness and an elegant touch while a drizzle of pure maple syrup perfectly balances the fruity vanilla flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe with crisp bacon or savory sausage to create a delicious contrast between sweet and salty. Fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt also complement the pancakes wonderfully for a wholesome and colorful breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the pancakes high and alternate layers with whipped cream and sliced strawberries for a show-stopping presentation. Or serve them rolled with a cream cheese and strawberry filling for a delightful twist that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, let the pancakes cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a quick and easy breakfast option throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, separate the pancakes with parchment paper and stack them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, preserving that delicious Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe magic for when you need a quick, comforting meal.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave. For the best texture, a quick 1-2 minutes in a toaster or oven helps them regain their crisp edges and fluffy centers just like they did fresh off the griddle.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh in this Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the batter, which can alter the texture. Fresh strawberries usually give the best flavor and appearance.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly curdled. This homemade version works wonderfully in the Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg or other egg substitute, you can certainly create a vegan-friendly version. Keep in mind texture and flavor might shift slightly but the pancakes will still be delicious!
How do I prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom?
To keep the strawberries evenly distributed, fold them gently into the batter right before cooking and avoid overmixing. Adding a bit of flour to the diced strawberries can also help suspend them throughout the batter.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely! The Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe scales up easily. Just keep the ingredients proportional and cook the pancakes in batches to ensure each one cooks perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a stack of pancakes that combines the comforting essence of vanilla with the fresh burst of strawberries. This Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe is a heartfelt invitation to slow down and savor simple pleasures. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved part of your morning routine!
Print
Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these fluffy Strawberry Vanilla Pancakes, a perfect breakfast treat combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the warm aroma of vanilla. Made with buttermilk for a tender texture, these pancakes are easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For Cooking
- Extra butter or oil for cooking
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, milk, egg, melted butter, and pure vanilla extract until smooth and thoroughly mixed.
- Prepare the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. It’s important not to overmix; some lumps are okay to ensure fluffy pancakes.
- Fold in Strawberries: Carefully fold the diced fresh strawberries into the batter, distributing them evenly without breaking them down.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Portion the Batter: Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the heated skillet, spacing them to avoid merging.
- Flip & Finish: Cook the pancakes until bubbles start to appear on the surface, about 2 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes warm topped with maple syrup, extra fresh strawberries, or a dusting of powdered sugar as desired.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter; keeping some lumps ensures the pancakes stay light and fluffy.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust cooking temperature if pancakes are browning too quickly to avoid burning.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick alternative.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
