Home
Recipes
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes
Red Velvet Pancakes Recipe

Red Velvet Pancakes Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade red velvet pancakes with this easy baking recipe. These fluffy, cocoa-infused breakfast treats feature the signature tangy sweetness of red velvet cake but in pancake form. Perfect for special brunches or Valentine's Day breakfast with luxurious cream cheese drizzle!
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
12 pancakes (4 servings)
An overhead shot of a short stack of vibrant red pancakes on a white ceramic plate, dusted with powdered sugar that creates a snowy contrast against the deep crimson layers. A cream cheese drizzle cascades down the sides, pooling slightly at the base of the stack. The pancakes are photographed in soft morning light streaming through a window, highlighting their fluffy texture and slight cocoa tint. Fresh raspberries and mint leaves are artfully scattered around the plate, adding natural color accents. In the background, a small pitcher of additional cream cheese drizzle and a cup of steaming coffee sit slightly blurred, suggesting a complete breakfast experience. A fork rests against the plate, having just cut through the stack to reveal the moist, tender interior crumb.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">240g plain flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp cocoa powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp baking powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp baking soda</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">50g granulated sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">300ml buttermilk (or 300ml milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp vegetable oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp white vinegar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2-3 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Butter or oil for cooking</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">For the cream cheese drizzle:</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g cream cheese, softened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">60g icing sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3-4 tbsp milk</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Non-stick frying pan or griddle</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Mixing bowls</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Whisk</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Ladle or measuring cup</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Spatula</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. The cocoa powder gives these pancakes their signature red velvet flavor, while the combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures they rise properly and develop a light texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. The buttermilk and vinegar provide that classic tangy flavor essential to red velvet, while also reacting with the baking soda to create fluffiness. Start with 2 tablespoons of food coloring and add more if needed for a deeper red color.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. It's important not to overmix - a few small lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing develops too much gluten, which makes pancakes tough rather than tender. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the leavening agents to activate.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>While the batter rests, prepare the cream cheese drizzle. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the icing sugar, milk, and vanilla. Mix until you achieve a pourable consistency, adding more milk if needed. Transfer to a piping bag or a small jug for easy serving.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil and spread it evenly. When the surface is hot (test by flicking a drop of water - it should sizzle), use a ladle or measuring cup to pour about 60ml (1/4 cup) of batter for each pancake.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set, about 2-3 minutes. This is the perfect time to flip - when bubbles appear but before they all pop. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the second side is golden. The pancakes should spring back slightly when touched in the center.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you cook the remaining batter. If needed, you can keep them warm in an oven at 100°C.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Serve the pancakes stacked on plates, drizzle generously with the cream cheese mixture, and add your favorite toppings if desired - fresh berries, chocolate chips, or a light dusting of icing sugar all complement the red velvet flavor beautifully. Enjoy while warm!</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Red Velvet Pancakes?

Red Velvet Pancakes require plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, buttermilk, eggs, oil, vinegar, vanilla, and red food colouring. The cream cheese drizzle needs cream cheese, icing sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

How to cook Red Velvet Pancakes at home?

Learn how to cook Red Velvet Pancakes by mixing dry ingredients first, then combining wet ingredients separately before folding them together gently. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side on a medium-heat buttered griddle until bubbles form on top and flip. The key is not overmixing the batter and watching for those bubbles before flipping for perfect fluffy results.

Why do red velvet recipes need both buttermilk and vinegar?

Buttermilk and vinegar create the signature tangy flavour of red velvet while also reacting with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide bubbles. This chemical reaction not only enhances the rise and fluffiness of the pancakes but also helps develop that characteristic tender crumb texture.

What's the best way to achieve vibrant red colour in breakfast pancakes?

Gel food colouring provides the most vibrant red colour without thinning your batter. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust as needed. For a natural alternative, try beetroot powder, though it produces a more muted burgundy tone and may slightly alter the flavour profile.

Can cream cheese drizzle be made ahead for morning pancakes?

Yes, the cream cheese drizzle can be prepared the night before and refrigerated. Simply whisk it again before serving or warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to achieve a pourable consistency. This makes for a quicker special breakfast assembly.

Want to try something else in ...

Classic Pancakes

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An overhead shot of a tall stack of golden-brown pancakes on a rustic ceramic plate, with butter melting down the sides and maple syrup being drizzled from a small pitcher. The pancakes have visible, fluffy edges and a perfect golden-brown color with subtle bubbles on their surface. A scattering of fresh berries surrounds the stack, adding pops of vibrant color against the warm tones of the pancakes. The scene is captured in soft morning light streaming through a kitchen window, highlighting the steam rising from the freshly cooked stack and the glossy surface where syrup pools on the plate.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

One-Bowl Pancakes Recipe

Fluffy, golden pancakes with crisp edges that come together in minutes with just one bowl to clean afterward.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
8 pancakes
View recipe
An overhead shot of a stack of three golden-brown Lemon Ricotta Pancakes on a white ceramic plate, showcasing their light, airy texture and slightly uneven edges. Soft natural morning light streams in from the side, highlighting the subtle yellow hue and delicate pockets throughout the pancakes. A pat of melting butter crowns the stack, with pure maple syrup cascading down the sides. Fresh blueberries and thinly sliced lemons scatter artfully around the plate, while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds contrast against the warm pancakes. A vintage silver fork rests beside the stack, with a small glass pitcher of additional syrup visible in the corner, all arranged on a pale blue linen runner that enhances the breakfast's fresh, citrusy appeal.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Recipe

Fluffy, delicate pancakes infused with bright lemon zest and creamy ricotta cheese that melt in your mouth with each tender, citrus-kissed bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
12 pancakes
View recipe
An overhead shot of a golden-brown Dutch Baby dramatically puffed up along the edges of a cast-iron skillet, creating a dramatic crater in the center. The pancake's surface showcases a beautiful contrast between the deeply caramelized edges and the lighter yellow interior with subtle waves and ripples. Shot in bright morning light streaming through a kitchen window, highlighting the pancake's glossy surface. A light dusting of powdered sugar is settling on top like fresh snow, while fresh berries and lemon wedges rest alongside the skillet on a rustic wooden table. A drizzle of maple syrup catches the light as it cascades down one side of the puffy edges.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Dutch Baby (German Pancake) Recipe

A dramatic, puffy pancake with crisp edges and a tender, custard-like center that gracefully deflates into a bowl-like shape perfect for filling with sweet or savory toppings.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
1 pancake (4 servings)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a stack of golden-orange pumpkin pancakes on a rustic ceramic plate, with maple syrup cascading down the sides and pooling on the plate. The pancakes are photographed in soft morning light streaming through a window, highlighting their fluffy texture and specks of warm spices. A pat of melting butter crowns the stack, while a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few toasted pecans add texture around the plate. In the background, a small pitcher of maple syrup, a mug of steaming coffee, and autumn leaves create a cozy seasonal setting that emphasizes the pancakes' warm, comforting appeal.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe

Fluffy, warmly-spiced pumpkin pancakes with crisp edges and a tender interior that perfectly capture the essence of autumn in every maple-drenched bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
12 pancakes
View recipe
An overhead shot of golden-brown, delicately speckled banana pancakes stacked three high on a rustic white ceramic plate. A drizzle of honey cascades down the sides, catching the soft morning light streaming through a kitchen window. In the foreground, a halved ripe banana and a small bowl of fresh berries add vibrant color contrast. A fork rests beside the stack, having just cut into one pancake to reveal its moist, tender interior. The background features a marble countertop with subtle hints of the simple ingredients—a whisked egg in a small glass bowl and banana peels—telling the story of this minimal recipe.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

2-Ingredient Pancakes (Banana & Eggs) Recipe

Impossibly simple yet surprisingly fluffy pancakes made with just ripe bananas and eggs, offering a naturally sweet, protein-rich breakfast with no added sugar or flour.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
6 mins
Serves:
6-8 small pancakes (2 servings)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rectangular sheet pan filled with golden-brown sheet pan pancakes cut into perfect squares, revealing their fluffy interior. The pancakes are garnished with an assortment of fresh berries—vibrant red strawberries, plump blueberries, and raspberries—scattered artfully across the surface. A drizzle of amber maple syrup cascades down the sides, catching the soft morning light streaming through a nearby window. In the corner of the frame, a vintage pitcher of syrup and a small bowl of powdered sugar wait alongside a spatula. The rustic wooden table beneath features scattered fresh fruit and a few sprigs of mint, enhancing the inviting weekend breakfast atmosphere.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Sheet Pan Pancakes Recipe

Fluffy, golden sheet pan pancakes deliver all the joy of traditional pancakes with none of the flipping, creating a deliciously efficient breakfast that feeds the whole family at once.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
12 pancake squares
View recipe
An overhead shot of a stack of three golden-brown Greek yogurt pancakes on a white ceramic plate, with maple syrup cascading down the sides. A pat of melting butter crowns the stack, creating glossy rivers that pool at the plate's edge. Scattered fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries add vibrant color contrast against the warm-toned pancakes. The scene is captured in soft morning light streaming through a window, highlighting the pancakes' fluffy texture and slight dimples. A small glass pitcher of additional maple syrup and a steaming cup of coffee sit alongside, completing this inviting breakfast tableau on a light wooden table with a folded blue linen napkin.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Greek Yogurt Pancakes Recipe

Light and fluffy Greek yogurt pancakes deliver a protein-packed breakfast with tangy flavor and pillowy texture that soaks up maple syrup perfectly.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
8 pancakes (4 servings)
View recipe
Overhead shot of a stack of three golden-brown keto pancakes on a rustic slate plate, with melted butter cascading down the sides and a drizzle of sugar-free maple syrup creating glossy pools on the top pancake. A fork cuts through the stack in the foreground, revealing their light, airy interior texture. The scene is bathed in soft morning light, with blurred background elements including a small bowl of fresh blueberries and a steaming cup of coffee, creating a cozy breakfast atmosphere. A sprinkling of cinnamon adds warm color accents to the pancakes' slightly almond-flecked surface.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Keto Pancakes Recipe

Fluffy, golden keto pancakes with a tender crumb and subtle sweetness that satisfies breakfast cravings without the carb overload.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Serves:
8 pancakes (2 per serving)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a stack of golden-brown blender pancakes on a rustic wooden board, with maple syrup cascading down the sides. The soft natural light highlights the fluffy interior revealed by a partial cross-section, while fresh berries and a small pat of melting butter adorn the top. A vintage ceramic pitcher of additional syrup sits nearby, alongside a scatter of fresh blueberries and strawberries. The pancakes' perfectly uniform texture—achievable only through the blender method—is evident, with tiny air bubbles visible throughout the tender interior.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Easy Blender Pancakes Recipe

Light, fluffy pancakes made in seconds with a simple blender method that delivers perfect texture and flavor every time.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
12 pancakes
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rustic wooden table featuring a stack of three golden-brown banana pancakes on a vintage ceramic plate. A pat of melting butter sits atop the stack, with pure maple syrup cascading down the sides. Natural light streams in from a nearby window, highlighting the caramelized banana pieces visible throughout the pancakes' soft texture. Scattered around the plate are fresh banana slices, a small bowl of additional maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The composition captures steam rising from the warm pancakes, suggesting they're freshly made, while a fork rests nearby ready to dig in.
Pancakes
Classic Pancakes

Banana Pancakes Recipe

Fluffy, golden pancakes studded with sweet mashed bananas that caramelize on the griddle for a breakfast that's both comforting and indulgently aromatic.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
10 pancakes
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Red Velvet Pancakes Recipe", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Baker" }, "datePublished": "2024-05-30", "description": "Learn how to make the best homemade red velvet pancakes with this easy baking recipe. These fluffy, cocoa-infused breakfast treats feature the signature tangy sweetness of red velvet cake but in pancake form. Perfect for special brunches or Valentine's Day breakfast with luxurious cream cheese drizzle!", "prepTime": "PT15M", "cookTime": "PT20M", "totalTime": "PT35M", "keywords": "red velvet pancakes, breakfast dessert, Valentine's Day breakfast, cream cheese drizzle, special brunch recipe", "recipeYield": "12 pancakes (4 servings)", "recipeCategory": "Breakfast", "recipeCuisine": "American", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "310 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "40 g", "proteinContent": "6 g", "fatContent": "14 g", "saturatedFatContent": "5 g", "cholesterolContent": "95 mg", "sodiumContent": "380 mg", "sugarContent": "22 g", "servingSize": "1 serving" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "240g plain flour", "2 tbsp cocoa powder", "1 tbsp baking powder", "1/2 tsp baking soda", "1/2 tsp salt", "50g granulated sugar", "300ml buttermilk (or 300ml milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)", "2 large eggs", "2 tbsp vegetable oil", "1 tbsp white vinegar", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "2-3 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)", "Butter or oil for cooking", "100g cream cheese, softened", "60g icing sugar", "3-4 tbsp milk", "1/2 tsp vanilla extract" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Mix dry ingredients", "text": "In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. The cocoa powder gives these pancakes their signature red velvet flavor, while the combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures they rise properly and develop a light texture." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare wet ingredients", "text": "In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. The buttermilk and vinegar provide that classic tangy flavor essential to red velvet, while also reacting with the baking soda to create fluffiness. Start with 2 tablespoons of food coloring and add more if needed for a deeper red color." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Combine and rest", "text": "Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. It's important not to overmix - a few small lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing develops too much gluten, which makes pancakes tough rather than tender. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the leavening agents to activate." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Make cream cheese drizzle", "text": "While the batter rests, prepare the cream cheese drizzle. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the icing sugar, milk, and vanilla. Mix until you achieve a pourable consistency, adding more milk if needed. Transfer to a piping bag or a small jug for easy serving." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Preheat pan", "text": "Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil and spread it evenly. When the surface is hot (test by flicking a drop of water - it should sizzle), use a ladle or measuring cup to pour about 60ml (1/4 cup) of batter for each pancake." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cook pancakes", "text": "Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set, about 2-3 minutes. This is the perfect time to flip - when bubbles appear but before they all pop. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the second side is golden. The pancakes should spring back slightly when touched in the center." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Keep warm", "text": "Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you cook the remaining batter. If needed, you can keep them warm in an oven at 100°C." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Serve", "text": "Serve the pancakes stacked on plates, drizzle generously with the cream cheese mixture, and add your favorite toppings if desired - fresh berries, chocolate chips, or a light dusting of icing sugar all complement the red velvet flavor beautifully. Enjoy while warm!" } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "157" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Mariko Tanaka", "datePublished": "2024-05-20", "reviewBody": "Gorgeous color, incredible taste! Made these for my daughter's birthday breakfast and she was over the moon. The cream cheese drizzle is absolutely essential - don't skip it!", "name": "Birthday Breakfast Success", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Alejandro Vasquez", "datePublished": "2024-05-15", "reviewBody": "These are way better than any restaurant pancakes I've tried. The texture is perfect - fluffy and moist with just the right amount of cocoa flavor. My whole family asks for these every weekend now!", "name": "Restaurant Quality at Home", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Ingrid Jorgensen", "datePublished": "2024-02-14", "reviewBody": "Made these for Valentine's Day breakfast and my husband was impressed! The recipe was easy to follow even for a beginner cook like me. The pancakes turned out just like the pictures - vibrant red and delicious!", "name": "Perfect Valentine's Breakfast", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Rahul Patel", "datePublished": "2024-05-03", "reviewBody": "Foolproof recipe that turned out perfect on the first try! The balance of cocoa is just right - you can taste it but it's not overwhelming. I added some chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence. Definitely making these again!", "name": "Foolproof Deliciousness", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Sophie Beaumont", "datePublished": "2024-04-27", "reviewBody": "Worth waking up early for! These pancakes are a special treat that feels like dessert for breakfast. I love that I can make the batter the night before and have it ready to go in the morning. The step-by-step instructions made it so easy!", "name": "Morning Indulgence", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Red Velvet Pancakes?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Red Velvet Pancakes require plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, buttermilk, eggs, oil, vinegar, vanilla, and red food colouring. The cream cheese drizzle needs cream cheese, icing sugar, milk, and vanilla extract." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to cook Red Velvet Pancakes at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to cook Red Velvet Pancakes by mixing dry ingredients first, then combining wet ingredients separately before folding them together gently. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side on a medium-heat buttered griddle until bubbles form on top and flip. The key is not overmixing the batter and watching for those bubbles before flipping for perfect fluffy results." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Why do red velvet recipes need both buttermilk and vinegar?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Buttermilk and vinegar create the signature tangy flavour of red velvet while also reacting with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide bubbles. This chemical reaction not only enhances the rise and fluffiness of the pancakes but also helps develop that characteristic tender crumb texture." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the best way to achieve vibrant red colour in breakfast pancakes?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Gel food colouring provides the most vibrant red colour without thinning your batter. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust as needed. For a natural alternative, try beetroot powder, though it produces a more muted burgundy tone and may slightly alter the flavour profile." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can cream cheese drizzle be made ahead for morning pancakes?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, the cream cheese drizzle can be prepared the night before and refrigerated. Simply whisk it again before serving or warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to achieve a pourable consistency. This makes for a quicker special breakfast assembly." } } ] }