Strawberry Shortcake Pancakes

Why You’ll Love It

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of strawberries and cream, a nostalgic pairing that takes many of us back to summers filled with sunshine and laughter. Growing up, I remember spending warm afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, delighting in her signature strawberry shortcake. Those cherished moments inspired this Strawberry Shortcake Pancakes recipe, which brings a modern twist to a classic favorite. These pancakes are fluffy, flavorful, and filled with the sweet essence of strawberries, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 egg whites
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup whole-wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dried freeze strawberries
• 1 cup fresh strawberries
• 1 teaspoon sugar (for strawberry sauce)
• Fat-free whip cream
• Maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, egg whites, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the whole-wheat flour, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Stir well to ensure the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and whisk until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
4. Gently fold in the dried freeze strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. For the strawberry sauce, place the fresh strawberries and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a saucepan or small pot. Cook on medium heat until the strawberries are thawed and juicy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Spray a skillet with cooking spray and place it over medium heat. Pour 1/4-cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
7. Cook until bubbles start appearing on the surface of the pancakes, then flip. NOTE: Flatten out the batter with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes.
8. Once cooked, top the pancakes with the strawberry sauce, a drizzle of maple syrup (if desired), and a dollop of fat-free whip cream.

Tips

For the best results, make sure your skillet is well-heated before adding the batter. This helps the pancakes rise and cook evenly. Also, if you prefer a sweeter pancake, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the batter. Use fresh strawberries for the sauce for a more vibrant and fresh flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the whole-wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To add extra protein, consider adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the batter. For a vegan version, replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a flax egg instead of egg whites.

Storage

These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the toaster for a quick breakfast on the go.

FAQ

Can I make the batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir before cooking, as the ingredients may settle overnight.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract on hand, vanilla extract is a great alternative. It provides a similar sweetness and aroma that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Are these pancakes kid-friendly?

Absolutely! These pancakes are a hit with kids, thanks to their sweet flavor and fun color. You can even make mini pancakes for smaller appetites or to serve as a delightful finger food for little ones.

Nutrition

Each serving of 4 pancakes, including strawberry sauce and whip cream, contains approximately 320 calories, 8g of fat, 15g of protein, and 45g of carbohydrates. Please note that adding maple syrup will increase the calorie and sugar content.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Shortcake Pancakes are a delightful way to start your day with a touch of nostalgia and a burst of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy Sunday morning or serving them up for a special occasion, these pancakes are sure to bring smiles to the table. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, so they too can indulge in this modern twist on a classic treat. Happy cooking!

Related update: Strawberry Shortcake Pancakes