Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Name: Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; Zest of 1 orange; Maple syrup; Powdered sugar; Fresh orange slices

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

Start your morning with these delightful Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes, bursting with fresh flavors and a light, airy texture.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-08T23:09:28.541Z

These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes are a perfect blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange, making them an ideal breakfast treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy weekend morning, these pancakes will brighten your day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh cranberry flavor and citrusy orange zest
Ultra fluffy texture that makes every bite divine
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunch gatherings

      

The Perfect Pancake Base

Achieving the perfect pancake starts with a well-balanced batter. The combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda provides the ideal lift, ensuring a fluffy outcome. Buttermilk adds a delightful tang and a tender texture, making these pancakes melt in your mouth. This simple yet effective blend of ingredients allows the fresh cranberries and orange zest to shine, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile that elevates your breakfast experience.

While many pancake recipes call for milk, using buttermilk in this recipe not only enhances the taste but also interacts with the baking soda to create a lighter texture. The acidity in buttermilk helps to activate the leavening agents, resulting in perfectly fluffy pancakes. Remember, the key to great pancakes is to mix the batter gently; over-mixing can lead to dense pancakes, so stir until just combined for the best results.

Incorporating Fresh Ingredients

Fresh cranberries and orange zest are the stars of this pancake recipe. Not only do they provide vibrant color, but they also infuse the pancakes with a burst of flavor that is both refreshing and festive. When choosing cranberries, opt for those that are firm and bright in color for the best results. Chopping them into smaller pieces allows for even distribution throughout the batter, ensuring that every bite is packed with fruity goodness.

The addition of orange zest is a game changer. It offers a fragrant citrus aroma that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. This combination is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making your breakfast spread look as delightful as it tastes. Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits, like lemon or lime, for a twist on this classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes, the options are endless. A drizzle of warm maple syrup is a classic choice, adding a sweet finish that balances the tartness of the cranberries. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top; it not only adds sweetness but also creates a beautiful presentation. Fresh orange slices on the side provide a refreshing contrast and enhance the citrus flavor.

These pancakes are not just for breakfast; they make an excellent addition to brunch gatherings or holiday celebrations. Consider pairing them with savory dishes like scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to create a well-rounded meal. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors will impress your guests and leave them wanting more, making them a perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
Zest of 1 orange

For Serving

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh orange slices

Mix all the ingredients well for a delightful pancake experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped cranberries and orange zest.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and fresh orange slices. Enjoy your delicious pancakes!

These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet!

Tips for Flawless Pancakes

To ensure your pancakes turn out perfectly every time, consider using a non-stick skillet or griddle. This will help prevent sticking and make flipping them a breeze. Preheat your skillet thoroughly before pouring in the batter; a hot surface is essential for achieving that golden-brown crust. If you're making a large batch, keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven until you're ready to serve.

Another tip for fluffy pancakes is to let the batter rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the gluten to relax and the leavening agents to start working, resulting in a lighter texture. Just remember to give the batter a gentle stir before pouring, as it may thicken slightly during the resting period.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover pancakes, don't worry! They can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them fresh and delicious, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also freeze pancakes for longer storage; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between each pancake to avoid freezing together.

Reheating pancakes is simple and can be done in a microwave or on a skillet. For the microwave, heat them for about 20-30 seconds or until warm. If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheat them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. This method refreshes their texture and brings back the delightful fluffiness.

Variations to Try

While the classic cranberry-orange combination is undeniably delicious, feel free to get creative with your pancake flavors. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor. You can also swap out the cranberries for other fruits like blueberries or strawberries, adjusting the zest to match the fruit you choose.

For a healthier twist, try substituting whole wheat flour or oat flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour. This will add more fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor. You can also reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in the batter for a wholesome breakfast option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster.

→ Can I add other fruits to the batter?

Absolutely! Blueberries or chopped apples would be great additions.