Indulgent Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze Magic

Name: Indulgent Red Velvet Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free blend); 2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder; 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Substitute with a sugar alternative if desired); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Ensure it's fresh); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (No substitutes recommended); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Sea salt works well); 1 cup Buttermilk (Can use milk mixed with vinegar); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs are a good vegan substitute); 0.25 cup Melted Butter (Vegetable oil can be used); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 tablespoon Red Food Coloring (Optional for color); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel cheese can be lighter); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (Any type works well)

Published: February 4, 2026

by Clare

Why love these Red Velvet Pancakes?

Indulgent Flavor: The rich cocoa taste combined with a creamy glaze turns breakfast into a dessert-like experience that your taste buds will adore.
Visually Stunning: With their vibrant red hue, these pancakes are not only delicious but also eye-catching, perfect for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is designed for busy mornings without sacrificing flavor or fun.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with fresh fruits or a drizzle of syrup, making each serving a unique treat.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a special treat for loved ones, these pancakes promise to impress and create lasting memories. If you love this sweet twist on breakfast, don’t miss my [Jalapeno Popper Shredded](https://cookdeliciously.com/irresistible-jalapeno-popper-shredded-chicken-wraps-recipe/) chicken wraps for another crowd-pleaser!

Red Velvet Pancakes Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything for these luscious red velvet pancakes!

For the Pancake Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pancakes; you can use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Cocoa Powder – Adds depth of flavor and lets the red velvet taste shine; no substitutions needed!
Granulated Sugar – Balances flavor and sweetness; feel free to substitute with a sugar alternative if desired.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to keep pancakes fluffy; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Baking Soda – Reacts with buttermilk for leavening; no substitutes recommended here.
Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt works beautifully as an alternative.
Buttermilk – Contributes moisture and tang; replace with milk mixed with a splash of vinegar if you’re out.
Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; flax eggs are an excellent vegan substitute.
Melted Butter – Adds moisture and flavor; vegetable oil or melted coconut oil can be used instead.
Vanilla Extract – Provides an aromatic sweetness that elevates the flavor; no substitutions recommended.
Red Food Coloring – Gives these pancakes their signature hue; feel free to skip it for a chocolate variation.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth, tangy glaze; Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter alternative.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; no substitutions needed for that perfect sweetness.
Milk – Thins the glaze to your desired consistency; any type of milk, even plant-based, works well.

Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into creating these magical red velvet pancakes that will surely impress!

How to Make Red Velvet Pancakes

Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture is the foundation of your fluffy pancakes, so ensure everything is well-blended.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth. The combination of these wet ingredients adds richness and moisture to your pancake batter.
Combine Batters: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! It keeps the pancakes light and airy.
Preheat the Griddle: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. This step is crucial to achieving that golden-brown exterior.
Pour Batter: For each pancake, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot griddle. Allow the pancakes to cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles start to appear on the surface. Flip them carefully and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and fluffy.
Make the Cream Cheese Glaze: In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if necessary—you’re aiming for a drizzling consistency.
Serve Warm: Stack your delightful pancakes on a plate and generously drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. For extra flair, add fresh berries or banana slices for that pop of color and flavor.

Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful finishing touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Decadent Red Velvet Pancakes?

Elevate your breakfast or brunch experience by pairing these indulgent pancakes with delicious accompaniments that sing in harmony with their rich flavor.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries and blueberries add a refreshing burst of sweetness that complements the cocoa tones perfectly. Their vibrant color also enhances the visual appeal.
Maple Syrup: This classic pairing brings a touch of warmth and sweetness, balancing the creaminess of the glaze with a rich, caramel-like flavor that makes every bite divine.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fluffy whipped cream can elevate the indulgence factor, making it feel like a treat worthy of a special occasion.
Banana Slices: Adding slices of ripe bananas brings a natural sweetness and creamy texture that beautifully melds with the richness of the pancakes, delighting the palate.
Savory Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon creates a wonderful contrast to the sweet pancakes, enhancing flavors and providing a satisfying crunch that everyone loves.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea pairs well with the rich cocoa flavor of the pancakes, creating the perfect cozy breakfast moment.
Chocolate Chips: For an extra dose of decadence, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top or in the batter. They melt slightly and offer gooey bites of chocolate goodness.
Cream Cheese Frosting: If you adore cream cheese glaze, double down with an additional swirl of frosting on top for a truly irresistible experience that screams indulgence!

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Pancakes

Fridge: Keep leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on a skillet when ready to enjoy.

Freezer: Layer cooked pancakes with parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When you’re ready to eat, thaw pancakes in the fridge overnight or use the microwave to heat them directly from frozen.

Reheating: Warm pancakes in a toaster or on a skillet over low heat until heated through, ensuring they stay fluffy and delicious.

Red Velvet Pancakes Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful pancakes your own with these fun twists!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delightful, gluten-free breakfast.
Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch with every bite.
Extra Chocolatey: Add chocolate chips to the batter for an even richer flavor explosion that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to awaken your taste buds with an unexpected twist.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh blueberries or sliced bananas into the batter for a fruity flavor that complements the cocoa beautifully.
Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese glaze for a warm maple syrup drizzle for a classic, cozy touch.
Boozy Delight: Add a splash of red wine or bourbon to the pancake batter for a sophisticated brunch twist—ideal for adult gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Pancakes are a wonderful choice for meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The wet ingredients, including buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter, can also be prepped in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours—just ensure you bring them to room temperature before mixing with dry ingredients to maintain that fluffy texture. Additionally, you can make the cream cheese glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before serving to ensure it’s smooth. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the pancakes and drizzle the glaze on top for a delightful breakfast that feels fresh and indulgent!

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Pancakes

Preheat Properly: Ensure your skillet or griddle is thoroughly preheated to maintain cooking temperature, promoting fluffiness in your red velvet pancakes.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes—you want them soft and airy!
Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; stale leavening agents can result in flat pancakes.
Adjust Consistency: When making the cream cheese glaze, adjust the thickness by adding milk gradually. You want it smooth enough to drizzle but thick enough to cling.
Be Creative: Feel free to add chocolate chips or walnuts to the batter for an exciting twist. These additions complement the richness of your red velvet pancakes beautifully.

Red Velvet Pancakes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the pancakes?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, ensure your buttermilk is fresh and not past its expiration date. When selecting eggs, opt for large eggs that are room temperature for easier mixing. If your butter is not melted, make sure it’s softened to blend well with other ingredients.

How should I store leftover pancakes?
Very! To keep your red velvet pancakes fresh, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, you can freeze them as described in the next question.

Can I freeze these pancakes? How?
Certainly! To freeze your pancakes, allow them to cool completely. Then, layer each pancake with parchment paper and place them in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen.

What should I do if my pancakes turn out dense?
Oh no, that can happen! If your pancakes are dense, check that you didn’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough texture. Additionally, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; stale leavening agents can cause the pancakes not to rise as they should. Always gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together just until combined for fluffy results.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these pancakes?
Absolutely! To make these pancakes vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, let it sit until gelatinous), and use a dairy-free milk alternative in place of buttermilk. If you’re accommodating those with allergies, always be cautious of cross-contamination with the ingredients you choose, especially with gluten and dairy.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese glaze?
For sure! You can easily adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese glaze. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, use less powdered sugar or add more milk to thin it out. Taste as you mix, and you can achieve the perfect balance that suits your palate!