Dessert

Fluffy Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe

Byluca Carter February 19, 2026February 19, 2026

Introduction

Fluffy red velvet pancakes are a decadent and delightful breakfast treat that will wow your Valentine’s brunch or any special occasion. These warm pancakes boast a striking red hue and are topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, making every bite a celebration of flavor and texture.

A stack of seven thick, red pancakes with slightly uneven edges sits centered on a white plate with a brown rim, set on a white marbled surface. Between each pancake layer, and generously on top, is creamy white sauce that drips down the sides. The top is decorated with fresh red raspberries and cherries, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, which also spreads softly around the plate. A golden fork rests on the right side of the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour blend
2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder (unsweetened Dutch-process recommended)

2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar or brown sugar for moisture
1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure fresh)

1 teaspoon Baking Soda (ensure fresh)
1/2 teaspoon Salt (no substitutions)

1 cup Buttermilk or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar
1 large Egg (no substitutes without altering texture)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure recommended)

2 tablespoons Melted Butter or coconut oil for vegan
1 tablespoon Red Gel Food Coloring (natural alternatives alter taste)
4 oz Cream Cheese (softened)

1 cup Powdered Sugar or granulated sugar
2 tablespoons Extra Milk (to adjust glaze consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and salt until well blended.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, melted butter, and red gel food coloring. Mix until smooth and evenly colored.
Step 3: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy—overmixing can make the pancakes dense.
Step 4: Preheat a greased skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: To make the glaze, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
Step 6: Stack the pancakes, drizzle generously with cream cheese glaze, and garnish with optional toppings such as powdered sugar or fresh strawberries.

Tips & Variations

Don’t overmix the batter; gently fold wet and dry ingredients to keep pancakes fluffy.

Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for the best rise and texture.
For vivid color, gel food coloring works best without thinning the batter.
Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Make a gluten-free version by swapping the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Use plant-based milk and flax egg for a vegan-friendly adaptation.

Storage

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in a toaster or microwave. To freeze, place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving.

How to Serve

A stack of six thick red pancakes sits on a white plate with a dusting of powdered sugar scattered around and on top. Between each pancake is a thin layer of white cream, with the top pancake covered in a generous layer of white cream sauce that drips down the sides. Bright red raspberries and cherries with stems are placed on top of the cream, some dusted lightly with powdered sugar. A gold fork rests on the right side of the plate, and a few raspberries lie on the white marbled surface around the plate. The background is dark, making the colors of the stack stand out vividly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for red velvet pancakes?

Choose fresh ingredients for the best results. Use buttermilk close to its expiration date for moist pancakes, select large organic eggs for richness, and pick vibrant, slightly firm fresh strawberries for garnish.

How should I store leftover red velvet pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a quick, delicious breakfast.