Valentines Breakfast Strawberry Pancakes

Name: Valentines Breakfast Strawberry Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Whipped cream, for serving; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love starting Valentine’s Day with these delightful strawberry pancakes. They are fluffy and light, perfectly capturing the sweetness of fresh strawberries mixed into the batter. Topped with whipped cream and more strawberries, they create a romantic breakfast experience that's hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee. This recipe not only brightens up the morning but also sets the tone for a lovely day ahead with loved ones.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:31:12.833Z

When I first made these strawberry pancakes, I was amazed at how quickly they came together and how beautifully they turned out. The key is to gently fold the strawberries into the batter to preserve their shape and freshness, ensuring every bite is bursting with fruity goodness.

I've experimented with different toppings, but a simple dollop of homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar elevates them to the next level. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weekend, these pancakes are a guaranteed hit!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fluffy and light texture that melts in your mouth
Fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and vibrant color
Perfect for a romantic breakfast or brunch

      

Mastering the Pancake Batter

Achieving the perfect pancake texture is all about balancing the dry and wet ingredients. When mixing the batter, it's crucial not to overmix; this can lead to tough pancakes instead of the desired fluffy result. Proceed gently, stirring just until the ingredients are combined. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable and will disappear during cooking.

Using buttermilk instead of regular milk enhances the flavor and tenderness of your pancakes. The acidity in buttermilk not only promotes a fluffy texture but also brings a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

Perfecting Pancake Cooking Techniques

For evenly cooked pancakes, it's essential to preheat your skillet or griddle properly over medium heat. If the skillet is too hot, the pancakes will brown on the outside while remaining raw in the middle. You can test the temperature by sprinkling a drop of water on the surface; if it sizzles and evaporates, you're ready to go. Generally, a temperature of about 375°F (190°C) is ideal for cooking pancakes.

When flipping the pancakes, keep an eye on the edges; they should look set and slightly dry, with bubbles forming on the surface. A good flip is key to preserving the fluffy texture, so I recommend using a wide spatula for stability. After flipping, cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Avoid squishing the pancakes down with the spatula, as this can deflate them.

Serving and Storing Your Pancakes

To elevate your Valentine’s breakfast experience, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. These flavors complement the strawberries and bring warmth to the dish. For an extra decadent treat, drizzle a bit of maple syrup or chocolate sauce over the whipped cream before serving.

If you have leftover pancakes, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a toaster or microwave until heated through. Adding a little fresh whipped cream and strawberries on reheating can restore some of that delightful freshness!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making your delicious strawberry pancakes.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Whipped cream, for serving
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Once you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients, let's dive into the steps to make these delightful pancake creations.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Fold in the sliced strawberries.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 1/4 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 golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar. Add extra sliced strawberries on top for that special touch!

Now enjoy your lovely breakfast with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter or using almond extract for a unique twist.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this pancake recipe plays a vital role in achieving the perfect fluff and flavor. The all-purpose flour provides the structure, while baking powder and baking soda help the pancakes rise, creating that airy texture we all cherish. The sugar not only sweetens the batter but also aids in browning the pancakes, giving them that enchanting golden color.

Fresh strawberries are the star of this dish, introducing natural sweetness and vibrant color. Their moisture content also contributes to the overall lightness of the pancakes. If you prefer, you can swap strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even bananas for a different flavor profile.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your pancake toppings! In addition to whipped cream and extra strawberries, you might consider adding chopped nuts for texture or a spoonful of your favorite fruit jam. For a chocolate twist, sprinkle some chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent treat that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

For those looking to make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the texture of traditional flour. The cooking process remains the same; just monitor the pancakes closely as the texture may differ slightly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your pancakes are turning out flat, check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. These leavening agents lose potency over time, which can result in dense pancakes. Keep your baking powder in a cool, dry place, and consider replacing it if it’s been opened for more than six months.

Another common issue is uneven cooking - if your pancakes are burning on the outside while remaining raw inside, it’s likely due to too much heat. Adjust your stovetop temperature as needed, and make sure you’re using a non-stick surface to avoid sticking. If flipping is problematic, give the pancake a gentle shake in the pan to loosen it before trying again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I serve with these pancakes?

These pancakes pair wonderfully with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or even a side of bacon for a savory contrast.

→ Can the batter be made ahead of time?

It's best to cook the pancakes right after making the batter for the fluffiest results, but you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a toaster or microwave.