from mrs. p's kitchen • valentine's pancakes
Can anyone else believe that we’re already two months into the new year? Maybe I’m in denial, or maybe I just savor things rotating a little slower in my world, but I’m gobsmacked at how quickly these last few weeks have flown by. Nonetheless, time marches on! And Valentine’s Day is upon us. Whether you’re newlyweds or married veterans, dating or single — there’s something for each of us to celebrate on Valentine’s Day. Love comes in many shapes, sizes, and forms, and it’s safe to say that love has touched each of our lives in one way or another. It’s meant to be savored and celebrated! And what says celebration better than a warm stack of fluffy pancakes? For me, pancakes are a once-in-a-while treat, but I always look forward to them like a kid looks forward to the magic of Christmas morning.
These particular pancakes are a spin-off on one of my favorite indulgences in the entire world — the Nutella waffle from Jubala Coffee . It’s the breakfast I dream about during those luxurious REM sleep cycles. Just, trust me. If you’re ever in Raleigh, run…do not walk. Anywhoo! I’ve yet to perfect the crispy, light-as-air goodness that is their liege waffle. BUT, pancakes come a little easier to me, and using the Bisquick mix makes it a quick sinch! Of course, you can use your own homemade pancake recipe if you have one — all the better! But this is one area in which I’m willing to compromise and cheat with a pre made mix; for me, the convenience is well worth it. In any case, what makes these pancakes special is the toppings! Dressed in a flowing gown of fresh berries and draped with generous drizzles of warm Nutella, these beauties can’t be beat if you’re looking to splurge. Make these for your loved one as a breakfast-in-bed treat, or make them for yourself and refuse to share a single bite! No matter who you’re showing love to this Valentine’s Day, this sweet stack is sure to please. But enough talk! Let’s get started! Here’s what you’ll need.
+ for the pancakes
1 cup Bisquick pancake mix
1/2 cup of milk
1 egg
1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
+ for the toppings
2 tablespoons Nutella hazelnut spread
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 tablespoon milk
3/4 cup mixed berries
+ The pancake ingredients are taken directly from the back of the Bisquick box. I enjoy making their ultimate pancake version — the basic version only calls for the mix, milk, and egg. My own contribution to the mix is the cinnamon. I’m a huge fan, and I think it adds that little extra something to the final product. But this can easily be left out if it’s not to your taste!
+ The ingredient amounts I listed will make you somewhere around 7-8 pancakes, depending on how big you’d like them to be. The amounts above have actually been halved from the amounts on the box; this is a good portion if you’re making the recipe for two, or one incredibly hungry person. If you’re making for the whole family, you can easily double the recipe!
+ For the mixed berries, my favorite combination is raspberries, blueberries, and sliced strawberries. I really like how the tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness of the chocolatey drizzle. But this mix can be tailored to include any of your favorite fruits!
Add all ingredients for the pancake mix into a medium bowl, and incorporate well; I like to use a whisk for the job. Once the mixture is smooth, I like to let it sit for a few minutes before I begin my work on the stove. I think that it helps the pancakes turn out a little taller and fluffier!
While I’m letting the pancake mix sit, I take the opportunity to get my toppings ready. That way, once the pancakes are finished, they won’t get cold while I chop my berries and mix my Nutella drizzle! Gently wash the berries and pat dry, then set aside. For the strawberries, I like to quarter them into bite-size pieces.
To make the Nutella drizzle, take the Nutella and the heavy cream and mix them together in a small dish. Microwave them in 10-second increments until you have a soft (and probably lumpy) mixture. In my microwave, this usually takes 20-30 seconds. I do it in increments because it’s so easy to burn! Once you have the soft mixture, take your milk and stir it in slowly until the mixture becomes smooth and shiny. If one tablespoon of milk doesn’t get the mixture thin enough to drizzle, slowly add a little bit of milk at a time until it becomes the right consistency! We use 1% milk, but any kind will do the trick.
When your’e ready to get the pancakes started, get your pan on medium heat and spray with a little cooking spray. Make sure you let the pan get nice and warm before you start! Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop your mix into the middle of the pan and let it cook until you see small starting to form on top. Flip with a thin spatula and let the second side firm up! To keep pancakes warm while you make the rest of the batch, I like to wrap mine in a little tent of tin foil. With each new pancake, you can add it to the pile and then rewrap with the foil to keep them nice and cozy! Once all of your pancakes have been crafted, it’s time to dress them up.
Warm your plate by microwaving it for a minute or so. Stack your pancakes one at a time, drizzling a generous spoonful of your Nutella spread between each layer. When the stack is complete, drizzle a little Nutella on the top pancake, then dress with a bit of your berry mixture and drizzle again. Take the rest of the berries and sprinkle them around the base of the pancakes, drizzling them as well. Because, let’s be honest — there’s no such thing as too much Nutella. It may be the Italiana in me talking here, but I’m willing to go to the mat on this one.
This sweet treat pairs nicely with a cup of cinnamon coffee, or your favorite tea. For a *slightly* healthier breakfast composition, you can make a short stack of pancakes and add a couple of poached or scrambled eggs. A little punch of protein can go a long way! In any case, the recipient of this delicious Valentine’s delicacy is going to fee loved the whole day long. So here’s a lot of love from me to you, friend! If you come over to my house on Valentine’s morning, we can enjoy a stack and some good conversation over a steamy cup o’ joe. Just don’t come before 8:00. There’s no love before 8:00.
Until next time,
Mrs. P
