Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Name: Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup fresh cranberries; Maple syrup; Powdered sugar; Additional cranberries and orange slices (optional)

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Start your day off right with these delightful Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-08T19:29:28.901Z

These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes combine the tartness of cranberries with the brightness of orange zest, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love These Pancakes
        Bursting with fresh cranberry flavor and zesty orange notes
Incredibly fluffy and light, perfect for a cozy breakfast
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy mornings or gatherings

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Nothing says comfort like a stack of warm pancakes on a lazy morning. These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect centerpiece for any breakfast table. The vibrant red cranberries against the golden pancake batter create an inviting dish that is sure to please everyone in your family.

The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and invigorating. Each bite bursts with juiciness and a hint of citrus, making these pancakes stand out from your typical breakfast fare. They’re great for special occasions or simply as a treat to brighten up your regular morning routine.

A Versatile Recipe

This pancake recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even some chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. The basic pancake batter serves as a blank canvas, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

Additionally, these pancakes can be served with a variety of toppings. While maple syrup and powdered sugar are classic choices, you can also try yogurt, whipped cream, or a fruit compote. This versatility makes them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to save time on busy mornings, consider making the pancake batter ahead of time. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before using, as it may thicken slightly as it sits. This way, you can enjoy freshly made pancakes without the hassle of mixing everything in the morning.

You can also prepare a large batch of pancakes and freeze them for later. Simply let them cool completely, layer them with parchment paper, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the toaster or microwave for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup fresh cranberries

For Serving

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Additional cranberries and orange slices (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and orange zest until well combined.

Mix Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the cranberries.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh cranberries or orange slices if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pancakes with your favorite toppings!

Nutritional Benefits

These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes not only taste great but also offer some nutritional benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and have been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and urinary tract health. Incorporating them into your breakfast is a delicious way to boost your nutrient intake.

Additionally, using whole ingredients like buttermilk and fresh fruit adds nutritional value to your meal. Buttermilk is lower in fat than regular milk while still providing essential calcium and protein. The orange zest not only enhances flavor but also adds vitamin C, making these pancakes a tasty and health-conscious choice.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these pancakes, the options are endless. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with candied orange peel or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also pair them with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast that complements the sweetness of the pancakes.

If you want to keep things light, serve the pancakes alongside a fresh fruit salad or some yogurt. This will not only balance the meal but also add a burst of color and freshness to your brunch spread.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover pancakes, storing them is easy. Allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When you're ready to eat them, simply reheat them in the microwave or toaster for a quick meal.

To keep pancakes fresh and prevent them from sticking together, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between each pancake in the container. This way, you can easily take out as many as you need without any fuss. Enjoy your delicious pancakes even days later!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.

→ Can I add other fruits to the batter?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries or chopped apples.