Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes

Name: Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Maple syrup; Fresh berries; Whipped cream

Highlighted under: Busy Ideas

I love starting my Valentine's Day with a special treat, and these vanilla almond pancakes are just the thing! The combination of almond extract and vanilla creates a delightful flavor profile that's both comforting and festive. I enjoy flipping these light and fluffy pancakes, drizzling them with maple syrup, and topping them with fresh berries or whipped cream. This recipe captures the essence of a cozy breakfast in bed, making it a perfect way to celebrate love with someone special.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:57:37.730Z

When I first made these pancakes, I was looking for a breakfast that felt fancy yet was easy to whip up. The secret lies in the combination of almond flour and vanilla extract, which gives the pancakes an exquisite flavor. I've experimented with the proportions of almond and vanilla, and I’ve found that just the right balance elevates the dish. Pair them with your favorite toppings, and you have a breakfast that feels like a celebration!

On a crisp winter morning, I can’t think of a better way to show love than with a stack of warm pancakes. The hints of almond delightfully complement the sweetness of maple syrup. I also discovered that letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking results in fluffier pancakes. Trust me; it’s a game-changer!

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes:
        Delicate almond flavor enhances the classic pancake recipe.
Fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with maple syrup and fruit.
An easy recipe that makes breakfast feel special.

      

The Importance of Resting the Batter

One key technique to elevate your pancake game is allowing the batter to rest. After combining the wet and dry ingredients, let the batter sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a more tender and fluffy pancake. You'll notice a difference in texture, as the pancakes will rise better and have a more appealing mouthfeel when they cook.

Another benefit of resting the batter is that it minimizes gluten development. Overmixing can lead to denser pancakes, so it's important to stop stirring once the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Bubbles should be visible in the batter after resting, which means it’s ready to cook and will create those light and airy pancakes you desire.

Choosing the Right Maple Syrup

The choice of maple syrup can significantly enhance the flavors of your pancakes. Opt for pure maple syrup over imitation syrup to enjoy the authentic taste that complements the vanilla and almond extracts beautifully. Grade A syrup is generally milder and great for drizzling, while Grade B offers a stronger flavor that can stand up to the pancakes' sweetness, giving a richer taste experience.

For a unique twist, consider infusing your maple syrup with additional flavors. Heat a small pot of syrup and add a sprig of rosemary or a pinch of cinnamon. Let it steep for about 10 minutes over low heat, then strain it before serving. This added dimension will make your breakfast feel even more special and thoughtfully prepared.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter

For Serving

Maple syrup
Fresh berries
Whipped cream

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the milk, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract until evenly blended.

Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Pancakes

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles appear on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup and your choice of berries or whipped cream.

Pro Tips

For even fluffier pancakes, let the buttermilk sit for a few minutes with the baking powder before mixing with other ingredients.

Substituting Ingredients for Dietary Needs

If you're looking to make these pancakes gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add about 1/4 teaspoon per cup to maintain the proper texture. In addition, ensure your almond flour is certified gluten-free if cross-contamination is a concern.

For a dairy-free option, replace regular milk with almond milk or any other non-dairy milk of your choice. The pancakes will still maintain their delightful almond flavor while catering to those with lactose intolerance or dietary preferences. Just be cautious about the consistency; you might need to adjust the additional liquids slightly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These pancakes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow them to cool completely before layering them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the toaster or a microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm, perfect for those busy mornings.

If you're planning a special brunch, consider making a double batch. You can freeze the extras for up to a month. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag once they're solid. This makes for an easy breakfast on mornings when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the baking powder is gluten-free.

→ Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk or other non-dairy alternatives work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

You can make the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just stir gently before using.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love topping them with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat!