If you are passionate about decadence and the cozy charm of breakfast favorite, these Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor are exactly what your mornings need. Each bite is a heavenly balance of tender, cocoa-infused pancakes with that signature smooth and tangy cream cheese glaze melting on top. The Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor in this recipe create a luxurious combination that feels both indulgent and surprisingly approachable, turning an ordinary breakfast into an unforgettable treat. Get ready to wow your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to share your kitchen with this vibrant, flavor-packed masterpiece.

Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple yet special ingredients that work in harmony to produce the perfect texture, stunning color, and unforgettable flavor in every pancake. Each component plays an essential role: the cocoa and food coloring bring that iconic red velvet look and taste, while the wet ingredients combine to create a fluffy and moist batter. The cream cheese glaze ties it all together with a smooth and tangy finish.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that ensures fluffy pancakes with just the right crumb.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds depth and the classic chocolate undertone every red velvet needs.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter gently without overpowering.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the pancakes their essential lift and lightness.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Balances the acidity from the vinegar and sour cream for tender results.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors while keeping sweetness in check.
1 3/4 cups buttermilk: Brings moistness and a subtle tang that complements the cocoa perfectly.
2 large eggs: Bind and add richness, making sure your pancakes hold their shape.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Infuses flavor and keeps the texture tender.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates sweetness with a warm, comforting aroma.
1 tablespoon red food coloring: Delivers that iconic red velvet hue and visual excitement.
1 teaspoon white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to lift batter and enhance tanginess.
1 tablespoon sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle richness for perfect texture.
1/4 teaspoon almond extract: A delicate twist that amplifies the cream cheese glaze’s flavor.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor experience for luscious coating.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates silky smoothness in the glaze for easy drizzling.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze to balance the tangy cream cheese perfectly.
1/4 cup milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for ideal pourability and shine.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Completes the glaze with aromatic warmth.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Adds structure and lightness to the pancakes.
1/2 teaspoon espresso powder: Intensifies the cocoa flavor subtly without overt coffee taste.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses richness.
1 teaspoon gel red food coloring: Perfects the color, strengthening the red velvet appeal.
1/4 teaspoon pink food coloring: Adds depth and brightness to the pancake color.
Butter for griddle greasing: Prevents sticking and adds flavor during cooking.
Fresh strawberries, sliced: A fresh, fruity garnish that brightens every bite.
White chocolate shavings: Add a creamy contrast to the cocoa flavor.
Powdered sugar for dusting: Gives a delicate, elegant finishing touch.
Whipped cream for serving: Optional but an irresistible complement.

How to Make Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

The magic begins by whipping the cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because a well-beaten glaze will have that perfectly silky texture that drapes beautifully over the pancakes. Gradually mix in powdered sugar to build sweetness and fluffiness, then blend in milk and vanilla extract to bring it all together with the ideal pourable consistency. Setting this aside allows the flavors to marry while you prepare the pancakes.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients for the Pancakes

In a large bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. This mixture forms the base that brings the rich cocoa undertones and texture to life. The cornstarch helps keep the pancakes tender, and the espresso powder enhances the cocoa without adding a smoky or bitter taste.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, almond extract, sour cream, and white vinegar. Incorporate the red and pink gel food colorings for the signature red velvet vibrancy. These ingredients introduce moisture, lift, and tanginess needed to replicate the classic red velvet cake profile in pancake form.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until blended. Avoid overmixing your batter—some lumps are okay and actually encourage fluffiness. Let the batter rest for five minutes. This brief pause lets the ingredients hydrate well and prepares the pancakes for amazing rise and texture when cooked.

Step 5: Cook Your Pancakes to Perfection

Heat your griddle or skillet over medium heat and grease it with butter. Test the temperature by sprinkling a few water drops – when they sizzle and evaporate, you’re ready. Ladle approximately 1/4 cup batter onto the hot surface and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles form on top and edges start to set. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Keep pancakes warm as you cook the rest.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor

Garnishes

To really enhance the Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor, fresh strawberry slices add a burst of juiciness and color contrast, while white chocolate shavings introduce a subtle creamy sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives an elegant and professional finish, making your stack irresistible.

Side Dishes

These pancakes pair wonderfully with sides like crisp bacon or a smoky sausage for a balanced meal. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup provides extra richness or sweetness depending on your preference. Fresh fruit salad adds freshness that contrasts nicely with the decadent glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking two or three pancakes high, drizzling the cream cheese glaze in a generous spiral and letting it drip down the sides for a luscious look. Use a squeeze bottle for controlled glaze application and decorate with red velvet cake crumbs, heart-shaped sprinkles, or edible pearls for festive occasions. The vibrant color and glossy glaze make these pancakes perfect for a celebratory brunch table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any pancakes left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the cream cheese glaze separate and add it fresh when serving to maintain its silky texture and rich flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked pancakes by layering parchment paper between each pancake and sealing them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently in the toaster or oven. The cream cheese glaze is best made fresh but can be refrigerated and gently stirred before use.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers at their best, reheat pancakes in a warm oven or on a greased skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating as it can alter the texture. Warm glaze slightly if needed to regain its pourable state before drizzling.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

While traditional red velvet pancakes call for buttermilk and cream cheese, you can try substituting with plant-based yogurt and vegan cream cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that texture and flavor will slightly differ.

Is it possible to make these pancakes without food coloring?

You can skip the food coloring if you prefer a more natural look; however, the iconic red velvet charm comes from its vivid color. For a natural alternative, beet juice powder or pureed beets can provide a similar hue.

What is the purpose of espresso powder in this recipe?

The espresso powder intensifies the cocoa flavor, making it richer and more complex, without adding a coffee taste. It’s a small addition with a big impact.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

It’s best to prepare the batter fresh to ensure fluffiness and proper rising. However, you can mix dry ingredients ahead of time and combine wet ingredients just before cooking.

How thick should the cream cheese glaze be?

The ideal consistency of the glaze is smooth and pourable, thick enough to coat the pancakes beautifully but not so thick that it globs. Adjust with milk to achieve this balance.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor are a joyful celebration on a plate that brings warmth, color, and luscious taste to your breakfast table. Watching that silky glaze slowly melt over the cocoa-kissed pancakes is pure happiness. I encourage you to make this recipe soon—you’ll find it’s a perfect way to add a bit of sweet indulgence and festive flair to any morning. Your kitchen (and your loved ones) will thank you for it.

Cream Cheese Glaze and Rich Cocoa Flavor Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 20 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 pancakes (about 4 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in the festive flavors of Red Velvet Pancakes infused with rich cocoa and a tangy cream cheese glaze. This recipe combines the classic red velvet cake taste with fluffy, tender pancakes, topped with luscious cream cheese glaze and fresh garnishes like strawberries and white chocolate shavings for a perfect breakfast or brunch treat.

Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: Start by beating the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating continuously until the texture becomes light and fluffy. Then stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the glaze achieves a pourable consistency. Set the glaze aside to maintain its smoothness while preparing the pancake batter.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, espresso powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk the buttermilk and eggs together. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, sour cream, and white vinegar to this mixture and whisk to blend all wet ingredients evenly.
Add Coloring: Mix in the red food coloring along with the gel red food coloring and pink food coloring to the wet ingredients until the batter reaches the desired vibrant red velvet hue.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy to ensure tender pancakes.
Rest the Batter: Allow the batter to rest for 5 minutes while heating your griddle or skillet over medium heat.
Prepare the Cooking Surface: Grease the heated griddle or skillet with butter or cooking spray. Test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
Cook the Pancakes: Using a ladle, pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to set, then carefully flip with a spatula and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until fully cooked through and lightly browned.
Keep Warm: Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and cover to keep them hot while you cook the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed to the griddle.
Prepare Maple Cream Cheese Syrup (Optional): Gently warm the maple syrup in a saucepan and whisk in cream cheese until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance the syrup’s flavor.
Plate the Pancakes: Arrange pancakes into stacks of 2-3 on serving plates. Generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm pancakes using a squeeze bottle or spoon.
Add Toppings and Garnishes: Top with fresh strawberry slices and white chocolate shavings. Lightly dust the stacks with powdered sugar and optionally garnish with red velvet cake crumbs, heart-shaped sprinkles, and edible pearls for an elegant finish.
Serve: Serve pancakes immediately while warm and the glaze is flowing. Provide additional cream cheese glaze and maple syrup on the side for guests to customize.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter; small lumps ensure tender pancakes.
Resting the batter allows the ingredients to meld and results in fluffier pancakes.
Use a good quality gel food coloring for the most vibrant red color without affecting taste.
Espresso powder enhances the cocoa flavor without making the pancakes taste like coffee.
Keep cooked pancakes warm by covering them loosely with foil or placing them in a warm oven.
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free pancake mix.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar to the cream cheese glaze as preferred.
Using a griddle provides more even cooking and space for multiple pancakes at once.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Griddle Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 pancakes with glaze
Calories: 390
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: red velvet pancakes, cream cheese glaze, cocoa pancakes, breakfast recipe, brunch, fluffy pancakes, red pancakes, sweet breakfast, festive pancake recipe