If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and a festive treat all in one, then this Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These pancakes combine the classic fluffy texture you love with the luxurious richness of red velvet flavor and a signature cream cheese frosting drizzle that makes every bite special. Perfect for Valentine’s Day morning, a weekend indulgence, or any time you want to add a little flair to your breakfast, these vibrant pancakes are as fun to make as they are delicious to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a smooth, bright red mixture that has a thick, shiny texture. A silver whisk rests inside the bowl, partially coated with the red mixture. A clear glass container held by a woman's hand is pouring a small stream of light yellow liquid into the center of the red mixture, creating a soft contrast of colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, where everyday ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role—flour and baking powder build a light base, cocoa powder adds that subtle chocolate note, and red food coloring gives the pancakes their iconic hue. The cream cheese frosting adds indulgent creaminess, perfectly balancing the lightly tangy and sweet flavors.

1¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the foundation for soft, fluffy pancakes.
2 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
1 tbsp cocoa powder: Brings a gentle hint of chocolate flavor essential to red velvet.
2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the pancakes rise beautifully and become airy.
¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the batter for softness.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to the tender texture.
2 tbsp melted butter or oil: Keeps pancakes moist and adds richness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes throughout.
1 tbsp red food coloring: Gives the pancakes their breathtaking red velvet look.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy base for the signature frosting.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right consistency.
2–3 tbsp milk: Adjusts the frosting’s texture to a perfect drizzle.
½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds a delicate flavor boost to the cream cheese frosting.

How to Make Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Begin by whisking together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures everything is evenly distributed so your pancakes rise and taste consistently amazing.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. This vibrant mixture is where the magic starts to happen, turning your pancakes into that show-stopping red velvet treat.

Step 3: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and gently stir until just combined. Remember, the key here is not to overmix—some lumps are perfectly fine and help keep the pancakes tender and light.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour approximately ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2 to 3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the pancakes are cooking, whisk together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. You can add more milk if you prefer a thinner consistency perfect for drizzling.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Stack your warm pancakes high and generously drizzle the luscious cream cheese frosting on top. Each bite offers the perfect balance of fluffy red velvet flavor and creamy sweetness—a breakfast delight you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Serve Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A stack of seven thick red pancakes sits on a white plate with a delicate gold pattern around the edge. The pancakes have a slightly fluffy texture with a deep red color. On top of the stack is a dollop of cream or butter with small pieces of nuts sprinkled over it. Golden syrup is poured over the pancakes, pooling around the base on a white marbled surface. In the background, there are blurred colorful objects like books or containers. A woman's hand is holding the side of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish visually and in taste, try adding fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top. Raspberries, strawberries, or even a dusting of powdered sugar create a beautiful contrast against the vibrant red and creamy white frosting. Whipped cream also pairs wonderfully for added decadence.

Side Dishes

Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe shine on their own, but you can balance the richness by serving them alongside some fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon. The combination of sweet and savory on the plate is irresistible and keeps your breakfast well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, use heart-shaped molds to cook your pancakes or arrange the stacks into a heart shape on the plate. You might also experiment with layering between the pancakes with the frosting acting like filling, turning the stack into a red velvet pancake cake that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pancakes, cool them completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe pancakes freeze beautifully. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before stacking in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated pancakes in a toaster, microwave, or warm oven. For best results, gently warm the cream cheese frosting separately and drizzle fresh over the reheated pancakes so you keep that signature creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Regular milk can work in a pinch, but buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps activate the baking powder for fluffier pancakes. If you don’t have buttermilk, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

The red food coloring is what gives red velvet pancakes their classic look, but if you prefer, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether. Just know the pancakes will look different but still taste delicious.

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that is one-to-one for flour. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture might change slightly but the flavors remain delightful.

How do I make the cream cheese frosting thinner?

Simply add an extra tablespoon or two of milk, a little at a time, until you reach a drizzle-friendly consistency. This makes it perfect for pouring over pancakes rather than spreading like frosting on a cake.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a fantastic way to make your pancakes even more indulgent. Fold in about ¼ cup of chocolate chips into the batter right before cooking for extra bursts of chocolate in each bite.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly brings together the best of both worlds — classic flavors with a festive twist. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply treating yourself, these pancakes are guaranteed to brighten your morning and delight your taste buds. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation.