Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes

Name: Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 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; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Butter or oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

When it comes to special mornings, I adore whipping up these Valentine's Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes. The delightful aroma of vanilla and almond fills my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each forkful is a perfect blend of fluffy pancakes with a hint of sweetness that's just right for celebrating love. I believe these pancakes not only brighten up the breakfast table but also set a beautiful tone for the day ahead. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a beloved morning ritual in your house.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:45:34.535Z

Every Valentine's Day, I make it a point to surprise my loved ones with a special breakfast. Last year, I decided to experiment with pancakes and a few pantry staples. The result was these fluffy vanilla almond pancakes, which instantly became a hit! They’re incredibly easy to make, and the flavor combination truly elevates a simple dish into something special.

What makes these pancakes so delightful is the addition of almond extract, which adds a unique twist to the traditional vanilla flavor. I also learned that letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking makes the pancakes even fluffier. It’s these little details that turn an ordinary breakfast into a memorable celebration.

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Delicate hints of vanilla and almond
Perfectly sweet with a light drizzle of maple syrup
A delightful way to start Valentine's Day

      

The Perfect Pancake Consistency

Achieving the right pancake batter consistency is crucial for fluffy results. After combining your wet and dry ingredients, be mindful not to overmix. A few lumps should remain, as overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in denser pancakes. If your batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or buttermilk at a time until you reach a pourable but thick consistency. The ideal batter should flow like a thick ribbon from your whisk.

When preparing the pancake batter, the order you mix your ingredients matters. The chemical reactions between baking powder and baking soda with the liquid ingredients create bubbles, aiding the fluffiness. Mixing the wet and dry separately helps ensure an even distribution of leaveners, making your pancakes rise perfectly. Remember, working with fresh ingredients like baking powder will yield the best texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips for Fluffy Pancakes

Temperature plays a critical role in cooking pancakes. If your skillet is too hot, the pancakes may brown quickly on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. Aim for a medium-low heat setting, and perform a quick test with a drop of water—the water should sizzle and evaporate within a couple of seconds. Adjust the heat as needed, and be patient. Cooking each pancake for 2-3 minutes per side will yield the perfect golden brown color and ensure thorough cooking.

For the best results, consider using a non-stick skillet or griddle to prevent sticking, enabling easy flipping. If you're cooking in batches, keep your finished pancakes warm in an oven set to 200°F (93°C) while you finish the rest. Cover them loosely with foil to maintain warmth without making them soggy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delectable pancake experience:

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
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 tablespoons melted butter
Butter or oil for cooking

These ingredients will help you create the pancake batter that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your pancakes:

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream. Enjoy each fluffy bite and share the love!

Enjoy your delicious pancakes with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter before cooking. Additionally, you can substitute almond milk for buttermilk if preferred.

Ingredient Variations

While the classic recipe features buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk, yogurt, or plant-based milk for dietary preferences. If you use regular milk, consider adding a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tartness of buttermilk. Additionally, for a nut-free version, you can omit the almond extract and use an extra half teaspoon of vanilla extract instead to maintain that delicious flavor profile.

For a more indulgent twist, try adding chocolate chips or sliced bananas directly to the batter. These variations not only bring new flavors but also give a fun surprise with every bite. Remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add significantly bulky ingredients to ensure even cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning a special breakfast, the pancake batter can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain optimal fluffiness, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to cook, give the batter a gentle stir; it's normal if it thickens a bit as it sits. You might need to add a splash of milk to regain the ideal consistency before cooking.

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a toaster or skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen—just add a minute or two to your cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the batter ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before using.

→ What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you don't have almond extract, you can replace it with additional vanilla extract for a more traditional flavor.

→ Can I freeze pancakes?

Absolutely! Cooked pancakes can be frozen in layers separated by parchment paper. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave when ready to serve.

→ How do I ensure my pancakes are fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and let it rest for a few minutes before cooking. This will give the baking powder time to activate, creating a fluffier pancake.