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 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; Maple syrup; Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.); Powdered sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Festive Inspiration

I love starting Valentine’s Day with a special breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Pancakes are a delightful way to celebrate. Fluffy and fragrant, this recipe combines the warmth of vanilla with the nutty richness of almonds. Each bite is a treat that brings me back to cozy mornings spent in the kitchen, using fresh ingredients to whip up something comforting and delicious. It's perfect for sharing with loved ones and sets a joyful tone for the day ahead.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:36.446Z

Every time I prepare these pancakes, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with delicious aromas. The blend of vanilla and almond extracts creates a heavenly scent that makes it hard to resist sneaking a taste of the batter. I find that letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking makes a big difference in fluffiness, giving them a delightful texture.

On special occasions like Valentine’s Day, I love to decorate the pancakes with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. It adds a splash of color and enhances the flavor. These pancakes are not just breakfast; they’re a way to show love and appreciation to those who make life sweeter.

Why You Will Love These Pancakes
Light and fluffy texture paired with the sweet essence of vanilla
A hint of almond that elevates this classic breakfast staple
Perfectly customizable with your favorite toppings like fruits or syrup

Ingredient Insights

The choice of flour is critical for achieving the ideal pancake texture. All-purpose flour works well, but if you're looking for a lighter pancake, consider using a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour. This not only adds a bit more fiber but can also enhance the nutty flavor of the almonds. Just remember that whole wheat flour may absorb more liquid, so you might need to adjust the buttermilk slightly to keep the batter smooth and pourable.

Almond extract enhances the aromatic qualities of the pancakes, creating an inviting scent as they cook. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way. If you're short on almond extract, vanilla extract can stand in. However, for a nuttier flavor, you could also consider adding finely chopped almonds to the batter, giving the pancakes a delightful crunch and an elevated almond essence.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When heating your skillet, it's essential to find the right temperature to achieve golden-brown pancakes without burning them. Start on medium heat, but be prepared to adjust based on how the first batch turns out. If the edges brown too quickly, decrease the heat; if the pancakes remain pale and take too long to cook, increase the temperature slightly. A non-stick surface helps prevent sticking, but if you're using a regular pan, make sure to grease it lightly between batches to maintain that perfect flip.

Bubbles forming on the surface of the pancakes signal that they are ready to be flipped. This is an excellent indicator, but keep an eye on the edges; they should begin to look set rather than wet. After flipping, cook until the other side is golden brown, which typically takes about one to two minutes. This technique ensures fluffy pancakes that are fully cooked inside yet crisp on the outside.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these mouthwatering pancakes!

For the Pancakes

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
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract

For Serving

Maple syrup
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
Powdered sugar (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve pancake perfection!

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, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake, cooking until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Serve and Enjoy

Stack the pancakes on plates and top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Drizzle with maple syrup and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious pancakes and share them with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before cooking. Adjust the thickness of your batter with a little more buttermilk if it's too thick.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of sweetness and flavor, consider enhancing your pancake stack with a mix of fresh fruits such as strawberries and blueberries. They not only add vibrant colors but also provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, fluffy pancakes. A dollop of whipped cream on top can turn your breakfast into a delightful treat perfect for Valentine's Day or any special occasion.

For those who prefer more indulgence, try serving these pancakes with a drizzle of flavored syrup like hazelnut or chocolate, elevating them to dessert status. If you're aiming for a lighter option, a sprinkle of fresh nuts or a scoop of yogurt can add creaminess and crunch, making each bite even more delicious.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a breakfast for a crowd, you can prepare the batter the night before. Just mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet in another, then combine them in the morning for fresh pancakes. This makes it easy to whip up breakfast quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Just remember to let the batter sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cooking to ensure the pancakes rise well.

Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or a warm skillet for a few minutes until heated through. You can also freeze the pancakes for up to a month. To do this, layer parchment paper between each pancake and place them in a zip-top bag. When you're ready, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, giving you a quick breakfast option on busy mornings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can use milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.

→ How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking the rest?

Keep them warm in an oven set to 200°F (93°C) until all pancakes are cooked.

→ Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

It's best to use the batter fresh, but you can prepare it and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before cooking.