Cupcake Pancakes for Two

Name: Cupcake Pancakes for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup colorful sprinkles; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I love starting my mornings with something sweet and delightful, and these Cupcake Pancakes for Two are the perfect treat! Each bite is like enjoying a fluffy cupcake in pancake form, complete with sprinkles and a hint of vanilla. It's a fun way to indulge without making a large batch, and both my partner and I enjoy sharing them together. With just the right balance of sweetness and texture, they’ve quickly become our go-to weekend breakfast choice, transforming ordinary mornings into sweet celebrations.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:37:00.147Z

When I first experimented with these Cupcake Pancakes, I was looking for a way to enjoy pancakes that felt extra special yet simple to make. Mixing cupcake batter ingredients with pancake mix was a game changer! The magic lies in the sprinkles, which add a pop of color and whimsy. I discovered that using buttermilk gives the pancakes that wonderful fluffy texture that reminds me of my favorite birthday cakes.

Cooking them low and slow ensured that I didn't end up with burnt edges. I also learned to drizzle a sweet glaze on top for an extra indulgence, making breakfast feel like a festive occasion. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to make them every weekend!

        Why You'll Love These Cupcake Pancakes
        Fluffy and light, just like a cupcake.
Customizable with your favorite sprinkles and toppings.
Quick and easy to whip up for a special breakfast.

      

The Secret to Fluffy Pancakes

Achieving fluffy pancake perfection relies heavily on the right balance of wet and dry ingredients. Make sure not to overmix the batter; mix until just combined to maintain the airiness. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable. If you want to elevate the fluffiness, consider separating the egg. Whip the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter last. This will create an even lighter texture that mimics a fluffy cupcake more closely.

Another crucial factor for fluffy pancakes is not to overcrowd the skillet. Cooking just two or three pancakes at a time ensures that each has ample room to rise and develop those delightful golden edges. Keeping an eye on the heat is also essential; if your skillet is too hot, the pancakes can burn before they have a chance to cook through. A medium heat works best, with adjustments as needed based on your stovetop.

Lastly, make sure your ingredients are fresh. Old baking powder or baking soda can significantly affect the rise of your pancakes. To test baking powder, drop a little into warm water; it should fizz vigorously if fresh. For baking soda, mix it with a splash of vinegar; it should bubble up immediately. Using fresh ingredients will guarantee that your Cupcake Pancakes for Two rise beautifully.

Creative Variations and Toppings

While the classic cupcake flavor is delightful, feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. You can add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version, or toss in some grated lemon zest for a refreshing twist. If you prefer a spiced flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Each variation opens up a whole new avenue of deliciousness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze and toppings.

Topping your pancakes can transform them even further. While drizzle glaze is a fun option, think of incorporating fresh fruit as well—sliced strawberries, bananas, or a handful of blueberries not only add freshness but also nutritional value. A dollop of whipped cream can add that extra indulgence reminiscent of a cupcake’s frosting, making your pancake breakfast feel decadent.

If you're looking for a healthier take, try substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. Just be aware that whole wheat flour will absorb more liquid, so you may need to slightly increase the buttermilk. Incorporating oats for added texture can also be a delicious addition. Adjust the quantity of sprinkles based on your taste; sometimes less is more, especially if you're experimenting with rich toppings.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup colorful sprinkles

For the Glaze (optional)

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure a light and fluffy batter!

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Gently fold in the sprinkles.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 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 another 2 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

In a small bowl, mixed together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

Serve

Stack the pancakes and drizzle the glaze on top. Add extra sprinkles if desired and serve immediately!

Enjoy these delightful pancakes with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try mixing in some chocolate chips or banana slices into the batter before cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is often rare with these tasty pancakes!), storing them properly will help maintain their fluffy texture. Let the pancakes cool completely, then place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; they can last up to two months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave. If using the microwave, heat them in short bursts of about 15 seconds to avoid becoming rubbery. If you're reheating multiple pancakes, you can stack them with paper towels in between and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. This will keep them moist and delicious even after being stored.

Another great way to serve leftover pancakes is by transforming them into a breakfast sandwich. Layer a pancake with peanut butter, a slice of banana, and another pancake on top for a fun twist. You can also use the pancakes as a base for a savory dish by replacing glaze with eggs and avocado, making each bite unique.

Dietary Swaps and Customization

For those needing gluten-free options, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend will work well. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum, which can help mimic the structure provided by gluten in traditional recipes. Simply measure using the same amount as regular flour and proceed with the recipe as written.

If you're vegan or dairy-free, consider using a flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement—one tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water equals one egg. For the buttermilk, use a dairy-free milk option (like almond or oat milk) combined with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to simulate the acidity needed for the recipe. This can still yield a deliciously fluffy pancake!

Experiment with sweetness levels as well. If you want to cut back on sugar, reduce the granulated sugar in the batter, or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar. Just be mindful to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly, as these alternatives may add more moisture. Making these substitutions can still lead to a breakfast that feels indulgent but is tailored to dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk and add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk.

→ Can these pancakes be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before cooking.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze the pancake batter?

Yes, you can freeze the batter for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using it.