Heart-Shaped Pancakes are a sweet and simple way to start any morning with a little extra love. These pancakes are just like your classic fluffy stacks but shaped into adorable hearts that instantly brighten the table. The gentle golden edges and soft, tender centers make each bite feel like a warm hug.
I love making these heart-shaped pancakes because they’re perfect for special occasions or just an everyday breakfast that feels special. You don’t need any fancy tools—just a little patience and maybe a squeeze bottle or a heart-shaped mold to get the shape just right. Plus, it’s fun to watch the batter transform on the griddle into those cute hearts.
My favorite way to enjoy these pancakes is with a drizzle of maple syrup and a handful of fresh berries on top. They’re great for sharing with kids, family, or even to surprise someone you care about. Making breakfast feel a little extra can really make the day start off on a happy note.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All
- purpose flour: This gives your pancakes structure and that classic fluffy texture. For a gluten-free option, try a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Buttermilk
- It’s important for tender pancakes and adds a pleasant tang. No buttermilk? Use milk plus 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Baking powder & baking soda
- These leaveners help your pancakes rise and stay light. Make sure they’re fresh for best results!
- Unsalted butter
- Melted into the batter and used in the pan, it adds richness and prevents sticking. Use vegetable oil or coconut oil if preferred.
- Vanilla extract
- Just a splash brings a lovely warmth and depth to your pancakes. It’s easy to skip, but don’t miss it!
- Fresh berries & maple syrup
- Great toppings to balance sweetness and add fresh flavors. Feel free to swap berries for sliced bananas, nuts, or chocolate chips.
How Can I Make Perfect Heart Shapes Without a Mold?
Forming heart shapes freehand takes a bit of practice but is totally doable! Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet well and keep the heat medium to avoid burning.
- Use a squeeze bottle or spoon with a narrow edge to pour batter.
- Start by pouring a small ‘V’ shape for the heart’s bottom point.
- Next, add two rounded blobs at the top sides, just touching, to form the heart’s curves.
- Work quickly but gently to connect shapes; the batter will start to set fast.
- Flip carefully once bubbles appear and edges look set to keep the shape intact.
Alternatively, a silicone heart-shaped mold or cookie cutter on the griddle can help. Just grease it well before pouring the batter.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick skillet or griddle – heats evenly and helps pancakes cook without sticking.
- Squeeze bottle or measuring cup – makes pouring batter into heart shapes easier and neater.
- Spatula – thin and flexible for flipping pancakes gently to keep their shape.
- Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients, one for wet, to keep mixing simple and mess-free.
- Whisk – helps combine ingredients smoothly for lump-free batter.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist that melts into gooey bites.
- Stir in cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to give the pancakes warm, cozy flavors perfect for fall.
- Top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey for natural sweetness and creaminess.
- Mix blueberries right into the batter so they burst with flavor as the pancakes cook.
How to Make Heart-Shaped Pancakes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for cooking and serving
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Powdered sugar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare the batter and around 15 minutes to cook all the pancakes. Altogether, expect about 30 minutes for a tasty breakfast that’s sure to bring smiles.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a big bowl. This makes sure everything is evenly spread out.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
Grab another bowl and mix the buttermilk, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and ready.
3. Make the Batter:
Pour the wet mix into the dry mix and gently stir them together. It’s okay if there are a few tiny lumps—don’t overmix or the pancakes might get tough.
4. Heat Your Skillet and Grease It:
Warm up a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat. Brush it lightly with butter so the pancakes don’t stick and get a nice golden color.
5. Shape and Cook Your Pancakes:
For heart shapes, you can use a heart-shaped mold on the skillet or try freehand by pouring the batter as a ‘V’ then rounding the top to create a heart. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake. Cook until you see bubbles on top and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pancake and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until it’s golden brown.
7. Serve with Love:
Stack the heart-shaped pancakes on a plate. Add a pat of butter on top and pour maple syrup over them. Surround with fresh berries and, if you like, dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Regular Milk Instead of Buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This will help mimic the tangy flavor and tenderness buttermilk adds.
How Do I Keep Pancakes Warm While Cooking the Rest?
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and keep them warm in a low oven (about 200°F / 90°C) until ready to serve. This helps maintain their texture and warmth without drying out.
Can I Make These Pancakes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make pancakes ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a toaster or skillet for best results.
What’s the Best Way to Keep Pancakes from Sticking?
Use a good-quality non-stick skillet or griddle and lightly grease it with butter before cooking each batch. Make sure the pan is properly heated but not too hot to prevent burning or sticking.