These funfetti pancakes are a delightful way to start your morning with a burst of color and sweetness. They are fluffy, flavorful, and topped with a rich vanilla glaze, making them perfect for celebrations or just a fun breakfast treat.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, you might need to pick up almond extract and rainbow jimmies sprinkles at the supermarket. These ingredients add a unique flavor and a festive touch to your pancakes.
Ingredients for Funfetti Pancakes
milk: Adds moisture and richness to the pancake batter.
lemon juice: Helps to create a buttermilk-like effect, adding tenderness to the pancakes.
all-purpose flour: The base of the pancake batter, providing structure.
granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter.
baking powder: Leavens the batter, making the pancakes fluffy.
baking soda: Works with lemon juice to further leaven the batter.
salt: Enhances the flavors.
eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
vanilla extract: Adds a lovely vanilla flavor.
almond extract: Adds a subtle, nutty flavor.
unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the pancakes.
powdered sugar: Used for making the vanilla glaze.
half and half: Adds creaminess to the glaze.
rainbow jimmies sprinkles: Adds a fun, colorful touch to the pancakes.
whipped cream: Optional but adds an extra layer of indulgence when serving.
One reader, Ephrayim Dutton says:
These funfetti pancakes are a delightful treat! The colorful sprinkles add a festive touch, and the vanilla glaze is the perfect finishing touch. They are fluffy, flavorful, and fun to make. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch!
Key Techniques for Perfect Funfetti Pancakes
How to preheat a non-stick electric griddle: Set the temperature to about 375 degrees F and allow it to reach the desired heat before cooking. How to make buttermilk substitute: Combine milk with lemon juice and whisk together, then let it rest for 3 minutes to thicken. How to whisk dry ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl and whisk until evenly mixed. How to whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until blended, then add the milk mixture, almond extract, and vanilla extract, and whisk until well blended. How to melt butter: Heat butter in a microwave or on a stovetop until fully melted. How to combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry mixture and whisk until slightly combined, then add sprinkles and whisk until the batter is blended but still slightly lumpy. How to cook pancakes on a griddle: Pour batter onto the preheated griddle in ¼ cup rounds, cook until golden brown on the bottom, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side. How to make vanilla glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, half and half, butter, and vanilla until well blended, adding more half and half as needed to reach the desired consistency. How to serve pancakes: Serve the pancakes warm with vanilla glaze, whipped cream, and additional sprinkles.
How To Make Funfetti Pancakes
Our yummy Funfetti Pancakes Recipe are the perfect breakfast treats for birthday celebrations! Top with vanilla glaze and whipped cream and you’re set.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Funfetti Pancakes:
- 1½cupsmilk
- 1tbsplemon juicefresh
- 2cupsall-purpose flour
- ¼cupgranulated sugar
- 2tspbaking powder
- ½tspbaking soda
- ¾tspsalt
- 2eggslarge
- 1½tspvanilla extract
- ½tspalmond extract
- 5½tbspunsalted buttermelted
For Vanilla Glaze:
- 2cupspowdered sugar
- ¼cuphalf and halfmore if needed
- 3tbspbuttersalted, melted
- ½tspvanilla extract
For Serving:
- ½cuprainbow jimmies sprinklesplus more
- whipped creamoptional
Instructions
Funfetti Pancakes:
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Preheat a non-stick electric griddle to about 375 degrees F.
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In a liquid measuring cup, measure out milk then add lemon juice and whisk together, let rest 3 minutes.
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, make a well in center of flour mixture.
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In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk eggs together until blended then pour in milk mixture, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Whisk mixture until well blended. Mix in melted butter.
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Pour milk mixture into well in flour mixture and whisk to combine slightly, then add sprinkles and whisk until batter is blended but still slightly lumpy.
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If needed, spritz griddle with non-stick cooking spray then pour batter out into rounds about ¼ cup at a time onto griddle.
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Cook until golden brown on bottom then flip and cook on opposite side until golden brown.
Vanilla Glaze:
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, half and half, butter, and vanilla until well blended.
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Add in more half and half just a little at a time to thin if needed.
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Serve panckes warm with vanilla glaze, whipped cream, and more sprinkles.
Recipe Notes
When whisking the batter, don’t over-mix or pancakes won’t come out fluffy. You can also cover the bowl of the vanilla glaze with plastic wrap first until ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 469.09kcal
- Fat: 15.93g
- Saturated Fat: 9.53g
- Trans Fat: 0.50g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.21g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.92g
- Carbohydrates: 75.71g
- Fiber: 0.85g
- Sugar: 51.04g
- Protein: 6.38g
- Cholesterol: 79.80mg
- Sodium: 380.93mg
- Calcium: 159.50mg
- Potassium: 127.09mg
- Iron: 1.82mg
- Vitamin A: 148.78µg
- Vitamin C: 0.81mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Best Funfetti Pancakes
To ensure your funfetti pancakes are fluffy and light, avoid over-mixing the batter. Whisk until the ingredients are just combined, leaving some lumps. Over-mixing can lead to dense pancakes.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Funfetti Pancakes
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the dry ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
Use a blender: Combine the wet ingredients in a blender for a quick and smooth mixture.
Preheat griddle early: Turn on the griddle while preparing the batter so it's ready to go.
Batch cooking: Cook multiple pancakes at once on a large griddle to speed up the process.
Ready-made glaze: Use store-bought vanilla glaze to save time on making your own.
Quick cleanup: Line your workspace with parchment paper for easy cleanup after adding sprinkles.
Substitute Ingredients For Funfetti Pancakes Recipe
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar consistency and can be used for a dairy-free option.
lemon juice - Substitute with white vinegar: White vinegar can also create the necessary acidity to react with baking soda.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the pancakes denser.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the batter.
baking powder - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, so adjust other ingredients accordingly.
baking soda - Substitute with additional baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder to replace baking soda.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different flavor profile.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg for a vegan alternative.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a different but complementary flavor to the pancakes.
almond extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: If almond extract is not available, additional vanilla extract can be used.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can be used for a dairy-free option.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be ground to a fine powder and used as a natural sweetener.
half and half - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a creamy texture and is a good dairy-free alternative.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative to butter.
vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Vanilla bean paste provides a more intense vanilla flavor.
rainbow jimmies sprinkles - Substitute with chocolate chips: Chocolate chips can add a different but delightful texture and flavor.
whipped cream - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: Coconut whipped cream is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar texture and sweetness.
How to Beautifully Present Funfetti Pancakes
Use a pristine white plate: Select a large, pristine white plate to create a clean canvas that highlights the vibrant colors of the funfetti pancakes and rainbow jimmies sprinkles.
Stack the pancakes neatly: Stack three funfetti pancakes in the center of the plate, ensuring they are perfectly aligned to create a visually appealing height.
Drizzle the vanilla glaze artistically: Use a small spoon or a squeeze bottle to drizzle the vanilla glaze over the stack of pancakes in a zigzag or spiral pattern, allowing some of the glaze to drip down the sides.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Place a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of the pancake stack, slightly off-center to add a touch of elegance.
Sprinkle with rainbow jimmies: Lightly sprinkle rainbow jimmies sprinkles over the whipped cream and around the plate to add a burst of color and fun.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves: Add a few fresh mint leaves next to the pancake stack for a pop of green and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Serve with a side of extra glaze: Present a small ramekin of extra vanilla glaze on the side, allowing diners to add more if they desire.
Use edible flowers for decoration: Place a couple of edible flowers around the plate to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of sophistication.
Ensure perfect symmetry: Make sure all elements on the plate are symmetrically arranged to create a balanced and professional presentation.
Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar: Use a fine sieve to lightly dust the entire plate with powdered sugar, giving it a delicate and refined finish.
Essential Tools for Making Funfetti Pancakes
Non-stick electric griddle: Used to cook the pancakes evenly and prevent them from sticking.
Liquid measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the milk and lemon juice.
Whisk: Used to blend ingredients together smoothly and incorporate air into the batter.
Medium mixing bowl: For combining the dry ingredients.
Large mixing bowl: For mixing the wet ingredients and then combining them with the dry ingredients.
Non-stick cooking spray: Helps to ensure the pancakes do not stick to the griddle if needed.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring small quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, salt, and extracts.
Measuring cups: For measuring larger quantities of ingredients like flour and sugar.
Spatula: Used to flip the pancakes on the griddle.
Mixing bowl: For preparing the vanilla glaze.
Spoon: For mixing the glaze ingredients together.
Serving plate: To serve the pancakes once they are cooked and glazed.
Whipped cream dispenser: For adding whipped cream to the pancakes when serving.
Storing and Freezing Funfetti Pancakes: A Guide
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the funfetti pancakes recipe:
- Allow the pancakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
- To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled pancakes in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Separate each pancake with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave the pancakes for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
- To freeze the pancakes:
- Place the cooled pancakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Flash freeze the pancakes by placing the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour or until the pancakes are firm.
- Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Separate each pancake with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, simply microwave the frozen pancakes for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster or toaster oven for a crispier texture.
- For best results, store the vanilla glaze separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat the glaze in the microwave for a few seconds and stir until smooth before serving over the reheated pancakes.
- When ready to serve, top the reheated pancakes with the vanilla glaze, whipped cream, and extra rainbow sprinkles for a festive and delicious treat!
How To Reheat Leftover Funfetti Pancakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover funfetti pancakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the pancakes loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the pancakes' texture and keeps them fluffy.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use your microwave. Place the pancakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds per pancake. If you're reheating multiple pancakes, add a few seconds to the cooking time. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the pancakes rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your leftover funfetti pancakes. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pancakes directly on the rack. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps to crisp up the edges of the pancakes slightly.
For a stovetop option, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or cooking spray to the pan. Place the leftover pancakes in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method can help to restore some of the crispiness to the pancakes' exterior.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and moisture to your leftover pancakes, try steaming them. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the pancakes in a steamer basket above the water, cover the pot, and steam for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle reheating method can help keep the pancakes moist and fluffy.
Interesting Trivia About Funfetti Pancakes
A fun fact about this recipe is that the lemon juice in the pancake batter acts as a natural buttermilk substitute. This helps to create a light and fluffy texture in the pancakes.
Is Making Funfetti Pancakes at Home Cost-Effective?
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this funfetti pancakes recipe, it's essential to consider the ingredients' affordability and availability. Most items like all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk are pantry staples, making this recipe budget-friendly. Specialty items like rainbow jimmies sprinkles and almond extract add a fun twist without significantly increasing costs. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are Funfetti Pancakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The funfetti pancakes recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, and half-and-half - are high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and saturated fats. The recipe also lacks fiber, protein, and essential nutrients that would make it a well-balanced breakfast option. The generous amount of sprinkles and whipped cream toppings further contribute to the overall sugar content of the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the pancake batter and the vanilla glaze, or substitute with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Use low-fat milk or plant-based milk alternatives instead of half-and-half to decrease the saturated fat content
- Incorporate more protein by adding Greek yogurt or protein powder to the batter
- Top the pancakes with fresh fruits, such as berries or sliced bananas, instead of whipped cream and sprinkles to boost the nutritional value and reduce the added sugar content
Editor's Opinion on This Funfetti Pancakes Recipe
This funfetti pancakes recipe is a delightful twist on classic pancakes, perfect for celebrations or simply brightening up a morning. The combination of almond and vanilla extracts adds depth to the flavor, while the sprinkles provide a fun, colorful touch. The vanilla glaze is a sweet complement, making these pancakes feel indulgent. However, the recipe could benefit from a touch more acidity, perhaps a bit of lemon zest, to balance the sweetness. Overall, it's a playful and enjoyable dish that both kids and adults will love.
Enhance Your Funfetti Pancakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Funfetti Pancakes
Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Funfetti Pancakes
Why trust this Funfetti Pancakes Recipe:
This funfetti pancakes recipe is a delightful way to start your day with a burst of color and flavor. The combination of lemon juice and milk creates a tender, fluffy texture, while the vanilla glaze adds a sweet finishing touch. The use of rainbow jimmies sprinkles makes it fun for all ages. Trust this recipe for its balanced ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring a perfect breakfast treat every time.
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