Name: Snowman Pancakes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cup All-purpose flour; 1/4 cup Sugar; 4 tsp Baking powder; 1/4 tsp Salt; 2 1/2 cup Buttermilk; 1/3 cup Vegetable oil; 1 count Egg (beaten); 1 tsp Vanilla extract; 1/4 cup Christmas sprinkles (plus more for topping); 1 cup Whipped cream; 1 cup Strawberries (with tops cut off)

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When winter rolls around and the holidays draw near, I can’t help but think of festive treats that bring joy. That’s why I adore making Snowman Pancakes! There’s something magical about flipping pancakes and crafting them into the shape of a jolly snowman. The excitement on my kids’ faces as they watch their breakfast take form is the highlight of my mornings. The aroma of warm, fluffy pancakes fills the kitchen, and I can already picture the smiles around the table. Plus, these pancakes are not just fun to make; they’re delicious too! With a hint of sweetness from the sugar and the festive touch of Christmas sprinkles, every bite is a reminder of the cheerful holiday spirit.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
4g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10g g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

What We Adore About This Snowman Pancakes

They’re a Fun Family Activity

Making Snowman Pancakes isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the experience! I love involving my kids in the kitchen. They take joy in mixing the ingredients, pouring the batter, and, of course, creating their own snowman designs. It’s a fantastic way to bond, laugh, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Perfect for Holiday Breakfasts

During the holiday season, we often have guests over for breakfast. These pancakes always steal the show! They serve as not only a delicious breakfast option but also a conversation starter. Everyone loves sharing their own creative takes on how to build the ultimate snowman. Plus, they’re so photogenic that they deserve a spot on your Instagram feed!

Easy to Customize

The best part about Snowman Pancakes is their versatility. While I stick to the classic recipe, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences. Want to add chocolate chips for extra sweetness? Go for it! Feeling adventurous with flavors? Toss in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe adaptable for everyone.

Kid-Friendly Treat

Kids love anything that’s fun, and these pancakes are no exception. They are perfect for picky eaters who might be more inclined to eat a pancake snowman than a regular stack. The combination of whipped cream and strawberries not only makes them look adorable but also adds a tasty twist!

Seasonal Cheer

There’s no denying that Snowman Pancakes bring seasonal cheer to the breakfast table. The vibrant colors from the sprinkles and fresh fruits evoke a sense of celebration. Each pancake can be decorated with whipped cream hats and strawberry scarves, allowing everyone to unleash their creativity while embracing the festive spirit.

Delicious Flavor

Last but not least, the flavor! These pancakes are fluffy, slightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying. Once you take your first bite, the combination of lightness and sweetness will have you reaching for seconds. They’re the perfect balance of indulgent and comforting.

Recipe Ingredients for Snowman Pancakes

To whip up these delightful Snowman Pancakes, it’s essential to use quality ingredients that blend harmoniously. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that fluffy texture and sweet flavor. The combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and buttermilk ensures the pancakes rise perfectly, while the Christmas sprinkles add a festive touch. Trust me, when you gather these key players, you’re on your way to a magical breakfast experience!

All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups – This forms the base of our pancake batter, providing the right structure and fluffiness.
Sugar: 1/4 cup – Adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the pancakes.
Baking powder: 4 tsp – The leavening agent that helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
Salt: 1/4 tsp – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Buttermilk: 2 1/2 cups – This adds moisture and a tangy flavor that keeps the pancakes tender.
Vegetable oil: 1/3 cup – Helps create a rich texture and prevents sticking.
Egg: 1 beaten – Acts as a binder that helps incorporate all ingredients smoothly.
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – Adds aromatics and depth of flavor to our pancakes.
Christmas sprinkles: 1/4 cup plus more for topping – These make the pancakes festive and fun!
Whipped cream: As desired – A delightful topping that adds sweetness and creaminess.
Strawberries: With tops cut off – Used to complete the snowman look.

Recipe Directions for Snowman Pancakes

Making Snowman Pancakes is a fun and straightforward process that will fill your home with delightful aromas. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be creating your own pancake snowman in no time!

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 4 tsp of baking powder, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Use a whisk to mix them thoroughly until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps in the mixture.
Next, add the wet ingredients. Pour in 2 1/2 cups of buttermilk, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 beaten egg. Don’t forget to include 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Now it’s time to fold in the fun! Gently add 1/4 cup of Christmas sprinkles to the batter and use a spatula to fold them in without overmixing.
Preheat a griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Pour about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. You can make them larger or smaller based on your preferences.
As the pancakes cook, watch for bubbles to form on the surface. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Once you notice bubbles, it’s time to flip them carefully.
Cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until it achieves a golden brown color. Your pancakes should be fluffy and beautifully browned on both sides.
Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the griddle and stack them on a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter until you’ve used it all.
Now for the fun part! To build your snowman, place a larger pancake at the bottom, a slightly smaller one on top, and finish with the smallest pancake on top.
Finally, garnish your snowman with whipped cream for the hat and place a cut strawberry on top to resemble a Santa hat. Add more sprinkles for decoration!

Things Worth Knowing

For perfectly fluffy pancakes, avoid overmixing the batter. A few lumps are okay!
If the pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
To keep pancakes warm while cooking the rest, place them in an oven set to a low temperature.
If you want to freeze leftovers, lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen.

Helpful Notes about Snowman Pancakes

These tips will ensure your Snowman Pancakes turn out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find these insights valuable.

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these pancakes! Just stack them with parchment paper in between layers, and they will keep in the freezer for up to two months.
Reheating: Reheat them in the toaster or microwave for a quick warm-up. If using the microwave, place a damp paper towel over them to keep them moist.
Serving suggestion: Pair these pancakes with fresh fruit like bananas or blueberries for a complete breakfast.
Variations: Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for a fun twist!

Perfect Pairings for Snowman Pancakes

Looking to make your breakfast experience even more delightful? Here are some perfect pairings for your Snowman Pancakes:

Fresh fruits: Serve with a side of fresh berries or sliced bananas that add a natural sweetness.
Maple syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the flavors beautifully and gives a festive touch.
Hot chocolate: Complement your pancakes with a warm cup of hot chocolate, perfect for those chilly winter mornings.
Whipped toppings: More whipped cream can be fun! You can even try flavored whipped toppings like chocolate or caramel.
Breakfast meats: For those who enjoy a more hearty breakfast, consider serving with turkey sausage or turkey bacon.
Occasions: These pancakes are great for holiday gatherings, family brunches, or a cozy breakfast on a snowy morning. They’re sure to bring smiles to everyone!

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the pancake batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before cooking to ensure everything is well combined. If you want to save time in the morning, you can also cook the pancakes ahead of time and reheat them in a toaster or microwave. They still taste great!

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own. Just add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will create a similar acidity that works well in pancake recipes. Alternatively, you can use non-dairy milk with the same acid added for a vegan version.

To make gluten-free Snowman Pancakes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum, as this will help bind the ingredients together and improve the texture. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free options that work great for pancakes!

Absolutely! You can customize your Snowman Pancakes by adding flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. Just mix in a teaspoon or two of your chosen spice to the dry ingredients. You can also fold in some chocolate chips or nuts if you like a little extra crunch!

Conclusion

What makes Snowman Pancakes special is their ability to bring joy and creativity to the breakfast table. They’re not just pancakes; they’re a delightful way to celebrate the winter season with your loved ones. I encourage you to try making them; I promise it’ll not only be fun but also delicious!