There’s a certain joy that comes from the first bite of a pancake on a leisurely Sunday morning, especially when that pancake is bursting with fresh, juicy strawberries. Picture this: the first rays of sunlight filter through your kitchen window, and the sweet aroma of homemade strawberry sauce simmers gently on the stove. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a stack of Fluffy Strawberry Pancakes that transforms an ordinary breakfast into a celebration of flavor. These pancakes are not just easy to whip up—they’re also the perfect solution for those moments when you want to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them with a drizzle of warm strawberry sauce or a dollop of whipped cream, these pancakes are sure to please everyone at the table. Ready to add a burst of spring to your breakfast? Let’s get cooking!
Why are these Strawberry Pancakes irresistible?
Fluffy texture: Each pancake is incredibly light and airy, making them a delightful treat for breakfast.
Fresh flavors: Bursting with sweet, juicy strawberries, they capture the essence of spring in every bite.
Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, these pancakes are perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends.
Versatile options: Adapt them to fit your dietary needs—go dairy-free, or use whole wheat or gluten-free flour effortlessly.
Crowd pleaser: Impress family and friends with restaurant-quality pancakes right at home! For more delicious ideas, check out our complete guide to perfect pancake variations.
Strawberry Pancake Ingredients
For the Pancakes
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds natural sweetness and juicy flavor to pancakes and sauce. Substitution: Frozen strawberries can be used but must be thawed and drained well.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pancakes. Note: Fluff flour with a fork before measuring to maintain lightness.
• Baking Powder – Essential for fluffiness; resting the batter enhances rise.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both the pancakes and syrup. Tip: Reduce sugar slightly for less sweetness without losing flavor.
• Buttermilk – Creates rich, tender pancakes with a slight tang. Substitution: 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice can mimic buttermilk.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and adds structure. Tip: For richer pancakes, an extra yolk can be added.
• Butter – Imparts richness and creates crispy edges. Note: Melt some for the pan instead of using oil.
For the Strawberry Sauce
• Cornstarch – Thickens the strawberry sauce, ensuring a nice consistency.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances the sweetness of the sauce. Tip: Adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of your strawberries.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the sweetness with a hint of tang. Note: Fresh lemon juice brings a brighter flavor to the sauce.
• Water – Helps in cooking down the strawberries and achieving the desired sauce consistency.
Indulging in these Strawberry Pancakes will transform your mornings into delightful experiences full of flavor!
How to Make Strawberry Pancakes
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Make Strawberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of chopped strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
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Thicken Sauce: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and stir this mixture into the saucepan. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let cool to thicken further.
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Mix Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined (some lumps are okay!).
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Rest Batter: Let the pancake batter rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture you desire!
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Prep Strawberries: While the batter rests, hull and dice 1 cup of fresh strawberries, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps prevent sogginess in your pancakes.
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Heat Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can test if it’s ready by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface—if they sizzle and dance, you’re good to go!
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Cook Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook until golden brown, another 2-3 minutes.
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Serve: Stack your fluffy pancakes on a plate, drizzle with warm strawberry sauce, and feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries on top for an extra treat!
Optional: For a delightful twist, sprinkle some chocolate chips into the pancake batter before cooking.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fluffy Strawberry Pancakes with Homemade Strawberry Sauce?
Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful sides that complement the sweet, fruity essence of these pancakes.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs wonderfully with the sweet pancakes, creating a perfect balance of flavors. A slice of bacon next to the pancakes not only adds a savory dimension but also brings a satisfying texture contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream brings out the sweet strawberry notes and adds a touch of elegance. It’s a classic choice for drizzling, making each bite a creamy delight.
- Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs add a protein-rich component that complements the fruity pancakes. Their savory flavor enhances the overall breakfast experience, making for a delightful morning spread.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will brighten your plate and elevate the meal with vibrant flavors and textures. The fruity medley balances the richness of the pancakes, making it a light but satisfying addition.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over your pancakes offers a sweet, earthy undercurrent that harmonizes beautifully with the homemade strawberry sauce. It’s a classic finishing touch that never goes out of style!
- Iced Coffee or Tea: A chilled glass of iced coffee or refreshing herbal tea rounds out this breakfast beautifully, providing a refreshing beverage option to sip alongside your meal. It helps wash down the sweet flavors without overwhelming the palate.
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: For a touch of indulgence, consider serving a side of chocolate chip pancakes alongside your strawberry version! The delightful contrast between chocolate and strawberry is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Strawberry Pancake Variations
Feel free to have fun with these variations and make them uniquely yours!
- Frozen Strawberries: Use but ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained for a delightful texture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute buttermilk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter for a creamy twist.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make these pancakes accessible for all dietary needs.
- Zesty Orange: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a bright and refreshing citrus flavor.
For an extra pop of flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Each addition brings warmth and depth to your pancakes.
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet, indulgent treat to satisfy chocolate lovers.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for a unique heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
These variations can elevate your pancake experience and create exciting new flavors for every breakfast!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Pancakes
Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick breakfasts!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Companion Sauce Storage: Keep the homemade strawberry sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 weeks, or freeze it for up to 3 months for a delightful topping later.
Reheating: To reheat frozen pancakes, pop them in the toaster or microwave until heated through. Serve with warmed strawberry sauce for a delicious treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Pancakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious breakfasts without the morning rush! You can prepare the pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk the dry ingredients together, combine them with the wet ingredients, and refrigerate. For the strawberry sauce, make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; allow the sauce to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain thickness. When you’re ready to cook, stir in your fresh strawberries before pouring the batter onto the skillet. This way, you’ll achieve fluffy, mouthwatering pancakes just as delightful as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Pancakes
- Batter Resting Time: Letting the pancake batter rest for about 10 minutes is key to achieving those heavenly fluffy strawberry pancakes.
- Avoid Overmixing: Keep the batter slightly lumpy; overmixing can lead to dense pancakes instead of the light, airy texture you desire.
- Skillet Temperature: Ensure your skillet is at medium heat. Cooking on too high can burn the pancakes before they’re cooked through.
- Proper Strawberry Prep: Make sure to hull and pat strawberries dry before adding them to the batter; this prevents moisture from making them soggy.
- Serving Warm: For the best experience, serve your pancakes immediately while they’re warm and fluffy, drizzled generously with the homemade strawberry sauce.
Fluffy Strawberry Pancakes with Homemade Strawberry Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my strawberries are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red all over, with a fresh green cap attached. Avoid those with dark spots all over or that feel mushy. Firm, sweet-smelling strawberries will give you the best flavor for your pancakes.
How should I store leftover pancakes and sauce?
Very! Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days in the fridge. For the homemade strawberry sauce, keep it in a separate airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 weeks. Freezing is also an option; pancakes can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Strawberry Pancakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, cool the pancakes completely on a wire rack. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, stack them with parchment paper in between each pancake and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months!
What if my pancake batter is too thick?
No worries! If the batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of buttermilk or milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, a fluffier batter can lead to fluffier pancakes, so make adjustments carefully.
Are these pancakes suitable for dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! You can easily adapt these pancakes to fit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with almond milk and use a dairy-free butter. If you’re looking for a gluten-free variation, try a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for delicious results.
How can I refresh pancakes after freezing?
Great question! To refresh frozen pancakes, take them out and pop them in the toaster or microwave until heated through. For extra deliciousness, serve them with warm strawberry sauce on top! Enjoy!
Fluffy Strawberry Pancakes with Easy Homemade Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of chopped strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and stir this mixture into the saucepan. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let cool to thicken further.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined (some lumps are okay!).
- Let the pancake batter rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture you desire!
- While the batter rests, hull and dice 1 cup of fresh strawberries, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps prevent sogginess in your pancakes.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can test if it’s ready by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface—if they sizzle and dance, you’re good to go!
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook until golden brown, another 2-3 minutes.
- Stack your fluffy pancakes on a plate, drizzle with warm strawberry sauce, and feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries on top for an extra treat!