If you have a craving for fluffy, tender pancakes that feel like a warm hug first thing in the morning, then this Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe will quickly become your new breakfast obsession. These pancakes are uniquely luscious thanks to the rich heavy cream that creates an incredibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right hint of sweetness. Every bite combines a golden crust with a creamy interior that turns an ordinary pancake breakfast into a memorable moment you’ll want to repeat again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a crucial part in building the pancakes’ perfect structure, flavor, and color—whether it’s the leavening agents for that ideal fluff or the vanilla extract adding a subtle aromatic sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation of your pancakes, providing structure while keeping them light and tender.
- Baking powder (2 tsp): Helps your pancakes achieve that fluffy rise so they’re soft and airy.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Works with the cream’s acidity to enhance lift and golden browning.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): A pinch that balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.
- White granulated sugar (2 TBSP): Just enough sweetness to brighten without overpowering.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): The secret to tender, rich pancakes with that irresistible creamy finish.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Helps reach the perfect batter consistency and lightness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together while adding richness and color.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses a warm, inviting aroma that complements every bite.
- Unsalted butter (2 TBSP): Melted for the griddle, adding flavor and a crisp, golden crust.
How to Make Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by sifting the all-purpose flour into a large bowl. This is more than just a mixing step—it ensures clump-free batter and a light texture. Add the baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the flour, then whisk them together. These dry ingredients are your rising agents and flavor enhancers that set the stage for picture-perfect pancakes.
Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk the sugar with heavy cream, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. This luxurious liquid mix containing that creamy richness is what will transform the dry ingredients into fluffy pillows of deliciousness.
Step 3: Gently Blend and Rest
Pour the wet ingredients into your dry mixture, and whisk just until everything is combined. The batter will be slightly lumpy—that’s exactly how it should be, so be careful not to overmix. Then, let the batter sit for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the leavening agents to activate fully, setting you up for beautifully risen pancakes.
Step 4: Heat and Butter the Griddle
Preheat your griddle or skillet to about 350°F or medium heat. Right before cooking your first pancake, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter on the surface. The butter not only prevents sticking but also creates a golden crust with every flip.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Use a 1/2 cup measuring cup to scoop the batter onto the griddle for perfectly sized large pancakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until bubbles start popping on top and the undersides turn golden brown. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until just as beautifully golden. For subsequent batches, be sure to melt more butter on the griddle before adding batter.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve these beauties immediately while warm, topped with your favorite butter and syrup. Their delicate sweetness and luxurious creaminess make every bite feel like a celebration.
How to Serve Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Sweet Cream Pancakes are incredible on their own but become downright irresistible with a few thoughtful garnishes. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries add bursts of brightness and a touch of natural sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of real maple syrup complements the pancakes perfectly without overshadowing their rich creaminess. For an indulgent twist, add a dollop of whipped cream or even a few toasted nuts for crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Sweet Cream Pancakes with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait adds refreshing lightness and rounds out your meal. If you want a breakfast that feels brunch-worthy, try serving alongside scrambled eggs or a simple vegetable omelet for a hearty and satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack the pancakes high and layer in alternating fruit compotes or flavored butters between each pancake for a beautiful multi-flavored tower. Serve them alongside small jars of different syrups—like honey, berry syrup, or chocolate sauce—so everyone can customize their experience. Even rolling a pancake around fresh fruit and a smear of cream cheese creates a delightful handheld snack that’s great for breakfast on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper in between to avoid sticking. This lets you enjoy the Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe beyond the morning without any hassle.
Freezing
Pancakes freeze beautifully and make breakfast a breeze when you’re short on time. Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before stacking in a freezer bag or container. Frozen pancakes will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop frozen or refrigerated pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave. The oven or toaster will keep the edges crispy while warming the center just right. In minutes, they’re ready to be dressed with your favorite toppings and enjoyed all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute milk for heavy cream in this Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe?
While milk alone can work to make pancakes, the heavy cream is what gives this specific recipe its signature richness and tender texture. Using only milk will result in lighter, less creamy pancakes, so it’s best to stick with the heavy cream for that indulgent finish.
What if I don’t have baking soda or baking powder on hand?
Both of these leavening agents are important for the rise and fluffiness of your Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe. Without them, the pancakes will be dense. If you’re out of baking powder, you can try substituting with a mix of baking soda plus an acid like cream of tartar, but having the correct ingredients is ideal for best results.
Why should I let the batter rest before cooking?
Resting allows the baking powder and baking soda to activate fully without rushing into cooking. This waiting period helps the batter thicken slightly and bubbles form, leading to fluffier, more tender pancakes with better texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe relies on heavy cream and eggs for its texture and flavor, so it’s not vegan or dairy-free as-is. However, you can experiment with dairy-free cream alternatives and flax eggs to mimic the experience, though the taste and texture will differ.
What’s the best way to prevent pancakes from sticking to the griddle?
Melting unsalted butter on a preheated griddle before adding the batter is a great way to prevent sticking and helps create a beautiful golden crust. Make sure your pan is hot enough but not too hot to avoid burning the butter or pancakes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a stack of homemade pancakes, and this Sweet Cream Pancakes Recipe brings that magic to life with every fluffy, velvety bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply treating yourself to a leisurely weekend breakfast, these pancakes are sure to impress and comfort all at once. Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite morning indulgence—it’s the kind of deliciousness you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 8 pancakes)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously fluffy Sweet Cream Pancakes made from scratch with a rich batter combining heavy cream, milk, and vanilla. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, these pancakes are tender, golden, and lightly sweetened, ideal to serve warm with butter and syrup.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 TBSP White granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Milk (any kind)
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
For Cooking
- 2 TBSP Unsalted butter (to melt on the griddle)
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are well combined and aerated for fluffy pancakes.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, heavy cream, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Whisk gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the leavening agents to activate and the batter to thicken slightly.
- Preheat Griddle: Heat a griddle or a large frying pan over medium heat (about 350°F). Just before cooking, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter on the griddle to coat the surface.
- Cook Pancakes: Using a 1/2 cup measuring cup, pour batter onto the griddle to form large pancakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until bubbles disappear on the surface and the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip each pancake carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and the pancake is cooked through.
- Prepare Next Batch: Before adding the next batch of batter, melt more butter on the griddle to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes warm topped with butter and syrup or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Resting the batter for 10 minutes is crucial for fluffiness as it lets the baking powder and soda work effectively.
- Use medium heat to ensure pancakes cook evenly without burning.
- For dairy-free variation, substitute heavy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut or almond milk but expect slight texture changes.
- Adjust sugar according to your preferred sweetness level.
