Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes

Name: Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 2 tbsp melted butter

Highlighted under: Celebration Seasonal Food Ideas

I love starting my Valentine’s Day with a special breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Pancakes are my go-to recipe. Fluffy and fragrant, they embody the sweetness of the occasion. The addition of almond extract paired with pure vanilla creates a symphony of flavors that dance on my taste buds. Topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup, these pancakes make any morning feel extra special. I've perfected the recipe over the years, ensuring a light and airy texture that everyone will adore!

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:45:36.389Z

Making pancakes is always a joy for me, especially when I can experiment with flavors that elevate a classic dish. One day, I decided to combine vanilla and almond for a sweet twist, and the result was life-changing! The fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, and the pancakes turn out fluffy and golden brown each time.

I’ve discovered that letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking really makes a difference in the texture. This simple step allows for a light and airy pancake that pairs beautifully with the toppings, whether it's fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Perfectly fluffy and fragrant with rich vanilla and almond notes.
Quick and easy to make, making breakfast stress-free on special occasions.
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

      

Elevating Your Pancake Game

To achieve the light and airy texture characteristic of these Vanilla Almond Pancakes, a key element is to mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. This technique helps to minimize gluten development, which can lead to dense pancakes. Additionally, don’t overmix when combining; a few lumps will lead to fluffier results. You’re aiming for a smooth batter that maintains some texture without being overworked.

The choice of buttermilk is crucial in this recipe. Its acidity reacts with the baking soda, producing carbon dioxide bubbles that contribute to a tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a substitute by combining one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using. This will ensure that your pancakes are fluffy and flavorful.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When cooking pancakes, patience is essential. Keeping your skillet at medium heat allows the pancake to cook evenly without burning. If the heat is too high, the outside may brown too quickly while the inside remains uncooked. You’ll know it’s time to flip when small bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. This technique not only enhances texture but also ensures thorough cooking.

Using a non-stick surface is recommended to prevent sticking. However, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet can also provide excellent results. If you notice your pancakes sticking, check to make sure your skillet is perfectly heated and well-greased. A light touch of melted butter or cooking spray can work wonders—just add it right before pour in your batter for each pancake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful pancake experience:

Dry Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
2 tbsp melted butter

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to make delicious pancakes!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pancakes:

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix!

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with cooking spray or butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side, about 1-2 minutes more.

Serve

Remove the pancakes from the skillet and keep warm while you repeat with the remaining batter. Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Enjoy your homemade pancakes!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before cooking for an exciting twist.

Serving Suggestions and Toppings

These Vanilla Almond Pancakes are versatile when it comes to toppings. Fresh berries, whether strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, not only add a pop of color but also balanced acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the pancakes. I often recommend tossing berries in a bit of sugar before serving to enhance their sweetness and juiciness. A drizzle of high-quality maple syrup can elevate the experience further, complementing the almond and vanilla flavors beautifully.

For an extra indulgent touch, consider whipping up a simple flavored butter. Blend softened butter with a bit of almond extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon; this adds a creamy richness. You could also sprinkle some sliced almonds on top for an added crunch. If you’re looking for a fun twist, try a dollop of whipped cream paired with chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the pancake mix ahead of time. Just combine the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet in another, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just mix the two and they’ll be ready to hit the skillet in no time! This makes breakfast stress-free, especially on special occasions like Valentine's Day.

If you have leftover pancakes, they can be frozen for a quick breakfast on busy days. Make sure to let them cool completely before stacking them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the toaster or microwave. They freeze well for up to two months, ensuring you can enjoy special pancake moments at your convenience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the pancakes ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in a toaster or microwave before serving.

→ Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Absolutely! You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ How do I ensure my pancakes are fluffy?

Be careful not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are perfectly fine, as overmixing can lead to dense pancakes. Also, letting the batter rest for a few minutes helps!

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love serving these pancakes with fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even a drizzle of honey for some added sweetness!