Short Description
Eggnog Pancakes with Homemade Vanilla Syrup are the perfect holiday breakfast treat! These fluffy, spiced pancakes are infused with rich eggnog flavor and topped with a warm, buttery vanilla syrup that takes them to the next level. Whether for Christmas morning or a cozy winter brunch, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and flavorful, perfect for the holiday season
- Light, fluffy pancakes with a rich eggnog taste
- Homemade vanilla syrup adds a warm, sweet finish
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Great for Christmas breakfast or a winter brunch
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Eggnog Pancakes:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Sugar
- Ground nutmeg
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Eggnog
- Eggs
- Butter, melted
- Vanilla extract
For the Homemade Vanilla Syrup:
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Heavy cream or milk
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Make the Pancakes:
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine and Mix
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are fine.
- Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
Make the Homemade Vanilla Syrup:
- Melt Butter and Sugar
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar, stirring until combined.
- Add Cream and Vanilla
- Stir in the heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Serve Warm
- Drizzle over pancakes and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Eggnog Pancakes: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist.
- Spiked Eggnog Pancakes: Add a splash of rum extract for an extra festive flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving.
- Coconut Eggnog Pancakes: Swap regular flour for coconut flour and add shredded coconut.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free eggnog and replace butter with coconut oil.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat pancakes in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or on a skillet over low heat.
- Freezing: Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought vanilla syrup instead of homemade?
Yes! However, homemade vanilla syrup has a richer, fresher taste.
What kind of eggnog works best for these pancakes?
Full-fat eggnog provides the best flavor and texture, but any type will work.
Can I make these pancakes without eggnog?
Yes, substitute eggnog with whole milk and add a bit more nutmeg and vanilla extract for flavor.
How do I make my pancakes extra fluffy?
Use fresh baking powder and avoid overmixing the batter.
Can I prepare the pancake batter ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and combine just before cooking.
Can I make the vanilla syrup thicker?
Yes, simmer it longer or add a little cornstarch mixed with water.
Do these pancakes taste strongly of eggnog?
They have a subtle eggnog flavor with warm spices but aren’t overpowering.
What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm while cooking?
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.
Can I use pancake mix instead of making from scratch?
Yes! Just substitute eggnog for the liquid in your favorite pancake mix and add spices.
Can I use maple syrup instead of vanilla syrup?
Absolutely! Maple syrup pairs beautifully with the eggnog flavor.
Conclusion
Eggnog Pancakes with Homemade Vanilla Syrup are a festive, delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. With their warm, spiced flavor and sweet vanilla drizzle, they’re perfect for Christmas breakfast or any cozy winter morning. Try them with your favorite toppings and enjoy a taste of the holidays!
PrintEggnog Pancakes with Homemade Vanilla Syrup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 pancakes 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy and spiced eggnog pancakes topped with a rich, buttery vanilla syrup—an irresistible holiday breakfast treat!
Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Homemade Vanilla Syrup:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Make the Pancakes:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggnog, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix; lumps are okay!).
- Heat a lightly greased griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Pour ¼ cup batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2 minutes), then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Repeat with remaining batter, keeping pancakes warm in a low-temperature oven if needed.
Make the Homemade Vanilla Syrup:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Serve:
- Stack pancakes on a plate and drizzle with warm vanilla syrup.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream, extra nutmeg, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Notes
- Swap eggnog with buttermilk or regular milk for a non-holiday version.
- Add mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans for extra texture.
- The vanilla syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and reheated before serving.
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