Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes

Name: Valentines Breakfast Vanilla Almond Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 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 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon almond extract; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; Fresh berries; Maple syrup; Powdered sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Golden Favorites

I absolutely love starting Valentine's Day with a special breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Pancakes never fail to impress. With their fluffy texture and delicate almond flavor, they create a perfect romantic morning. I enjoy combining the warmth of vanilla with the nutty taste of almonds, which makes every bite feel like a celebration. Topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup, these pancakes are a delightful way to treat someone special, or even just myself, on this lovely day.

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:13:35.699Z

When I first made these pancakes, I was simply looking for a way to make breakfast feel a little more special. The combination of vanilla extract and almond flour creates a delightful flavor that reminds me of my favorite pastries. As they cooked, the kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma that had everyone rushing to the table. I added a twist by serving them with a berry compote, which elevated the dish even more.

One of the best tips I learned while preparing these pancakes is to let the batter rest for about five minutes before cooking. This simple step allows the flour to hydrate fully, resulting in a fluffier pancake. Don't rush this – it truly makes a difference in texture. Each pancake comes out perfectly golden and tender, just the way I love them!

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Delicate almond flavor that delights the senses
Fluffy texture that makes every bite a dream
Perfect for a romantic breakfast or brunch

      

Perfectly Fluffy Pancake Technique

To achieve the ideal fluffy texture in your pancakes, it's crucial not to overmix the batter. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, allowing for a few lumps. This technique helps to trap air bubbles, which expand while cooking, resulting in light and airy pancakes. If you find the batter thicker than expected, you can gently fold in a splash more milk to adjust the consistency without sacrificing fluffiness.

Another tip for fluffy pancakes is to let the batter rest for about 5-10 minutes after mixing. This brief resting period allows the baking powder to activate fully and the gluten to relax, yielding a more tender pancake. Use this time to heat your skillet and prep your toppings, ensuring you’re ready to serve up a delightful breakfast quickly.

Ingredient Insights

Almond flour adds a wonderful nutty flavor and moist texture to your pancakes, distinguishing them from traditional recipes. It’s important to use finely ground almond flour to prevent a gritty texture. If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, being cautious that some blends may require different liquid ratios or additional binding agents for best results.

When adding extracts, such as almond and vanilla, quality matters. I recommend using pure extracts rather than imitation ones, as they enhance the overall flavor profile of your pancakes. The vanilla adds warmth, while the almond extract provides a delightful twist, setting these pancakes apart from standard recipes. If you're short on almond extract, a splash more vanilla can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful pancakes:

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 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon almond extract
2 tablespoons butter, melted

For Serving

Fresh berries
Maple syrup
Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your Vanilla Almond Pancakes:

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and melted butter until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Serve the pancakes warm with fresh berries, maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. Also, let the pancakes cool slightly between batches to ensure they stay fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

These Vanilla Almond Pancakes can be served with a variety of toppings to enhance their flavor. Aside from fresh berries and maple syrup, consider whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist. You might also try pairing them with a flavored syrup, such as raspberry or orange, to add another layer of taste.

For an extra special touch, garnish your pancakes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving. This not only makes them visually appealing but also adds a hint of sweetness that complements the almond and vanilla flavors perfectly. Don't forget to serve with a side of yogurt or cottage cheese for a well-rounded breakfast that includes protein.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These pancakes can be made ahead of time for busy mornings. Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it; just remember to stir it gently again before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook the pancakes, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast option.

If you'd like to freeze your pancakes, separate each one with parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them directly in the toaster or microwave. This is an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious Valentine's Day breakfast (or brunch!) on hand whenever you want.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the blend's packaging for best results.

→ How can I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked pancakes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer.

→ What other toppings do you recommend?

Besides berries and syrup, you can try yogurt, honey, or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent touch.