If you’re looking to bring a little Christmas magic to your breakfast table, you absolutely have to try this Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe. I first made these for a holiday brunch, and let me tell you, they were the star of the show. With their vibrant green color, fluffy texture, and that luscious cream cheese icing, these pancakes are as delightful to eat as they are to look at. Stick around because I’ve packed this post with tips and variations to help you nail the recipe every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and Fun: The bright green color instantly adds holiday cheer to your breakfast table.
- Light and Fluffy Pancakes: Thanks to the vinegar-milk combo, you get pancakes that are perfectly tender every time.
- Decadent Cream Cheese Icing: It’s the sweet, tangy topping that makes this recipe unforgettable.
- Easy to Customize: You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste – more color, less sugar, or a dairy-free twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on the right ingredients is key to perfecting these Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe. I love using whole milk and fresh baking powder for fluffiness, and the food coloring is what truly transforms these into a festive treat.
- Whole milk: The richness enhances the pancake texture; adding vinegar turns it into a buttermilk substitute for fluffiness.
- White vinegar or lemon juice: Reacts with the baking soda to give extra lift.
- All-purpose flour: Standard for pancakes, providing the right structure.
- Granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness without overpowering.
- Baking powder: Essential for fluffiness—make sure it’s fresh.
- Baking soda: Works with the vinegar to create bubbles.
- Salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- Large egg: Helps bind everything and adds moisture.
- Butter, melted: Adds richness and prevents sticking.
- Green food coloring: The star of the show for that Grinch-y vibe.
- Cream cheese: For the luscious icing—use softened for best blending.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing smoothly without grit.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth to both icing and whipped cream.
- Heavy whipping cream: Used in both the cream cheese icing and green whipped cream for richness.
- Red heart sprinkles: Perfect festive touch to finish off your pancakes.
- Cooking spray: For a non-stick skillet without extra butter.
Variations
I love how adaptable this Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe is. Whether you want to make it dairy-free or experiment with natural food colors, there’s a fun twist for everyone. Don’t be shy about making it your own!
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk for almond or oat milk and use a vegan cream cheese alternative for the icing—I did this for a friend and it was still a hit.
- Color Variations: Try matcha powder for a natural green color instead of food coloring, adding a subtle earthy flavor I happen to adore.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to bring cozy warmth to each bite.
- Chocolate Flavor: Stir in mini chocolate chips for an extra treat that my kids absolutely love.
How to Make Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing and Green Whipped Cream
Start your magic by beating together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until super smooth. Then, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract and beat on medium speed until the icing is light and fluffy—about 2 minutes. For the green whipped cream, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until it forms stiff peaks. This gives an extra fun topping option. The icing can sit aside while you make the pancakes, but keep the whipped cream chilled until serving.
Step 2: Create Your Grinch Green Pancake Batter
Mix the milk and vinegar first and let it sit 5 minutes to curdle—it acts like buttermilk. In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, add egg, melted butter, and as much green food coloring as you want to the milk mixture. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet and whisk just until smooth. You don’t want to overmix here; a few lumps are okay—they keep your pancakes tender and fluffy.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Heat your skillet over medium heat and coat it lightly with cooking spray. Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. When bubbles start popping on the surface and the edges look set—it’s time to flip. Cook the other side until it’s golden brown. I’ve found that medium heat is perfect to avoid burning while letting the center cook through.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Stack your Grinch Green Pancakes high and spread them generously with that heavenly cream cheese icing. Add a dollop of green whipped cream on top, then finish with a sprinkle of red heart sprinkles for that perfect holiday pop. It’s not just cute—it’s downright delicious.
Pro Tips for Making Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Leaving a few lumps keeps your pancakes tender and fluffy—trust me, it makes a huge difference.
- Adjust Green Food Coloring in Stages: I start with a few drops and add more until I get that iconic Grinch hue without making the batter bitter.
- Use Medium Heat for Cooking: Cooking pancakes slowly ensures they’re cooked through without burning outside.
- Keep Pancakes Warm in Oven: If making batches, store pancakes on a baking sheet in a warm oven (about 200°F) while finishing the rest.
How to Serve Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Garnishes
I personally love finishing these pancakes with red heart sprinkles because the bright red contrasts beautifully with the green—and it just screams holiday joy. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar can work great too if you prefer a more natural look.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to add some savory notes. For a lighter touch, a simple fruit salad or orange slices balance the richness perfectly and brighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, I like stacking these pancakes tall into mini towers, each topped with a swirl of cream cheese icing and a red sprinkle heart, served on festive plates. You can also cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters for kids—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually keep leftover pancakes and cream cheese icing in separate airtight containers in the fridge—they stay fresh that way for up to 4 days. Just be sure to add the icing right before serving again to keep the pancakes from getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze these pancakes by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. I’ve had success freezing them for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight or pop them straight in the toaster for a quick warm-up.
Reheating
I prefer reheating pancakes in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat to keep them crisp on the outside. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make them a bit rubbery. Always add your cream cheese icing and whipped cream fresh after reheating for best flavor and texture.
FAQs
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Can I make these pancakes without food coloring?
Absolutely! While the green food coloring gives that iconic Grinch look, you can skip it or substitute with natural options like matcha powder to add both color and flavor.
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Will vinegar affect the taste of the pancakes?
Not at all! The vinegar is there to react with the baking soda and create a fluffy texture. It’s used in such a small amount that you won’t taste it in the finished pancakes.
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Can I prepare the cream cheese icing ahead of time?
Yes! The cream cheese icing can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick whip before using to revive its creamy texture.
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Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The fun color and sweet cream cheese icing make these a hit with kids, but be mindful about the food coloring—some parents prefer natural alternatives.
Final Thoughts
I can’t tell you how many times these Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe have brought smiles around my table during the holidays. There’s something joyful and a little cheeky about bright green pancakes topped with creamy icing that makes breakfast feel extra special. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be surprised how easy it is to make pancakes that look spectacular and taste amazing. Promise your family and guests will go crazy for these, just like mine always do!
Print
Grinch Green Pancakes with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 pancakes 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Celebrate the holidays with festive Grinch Pancakes, vibrant green pancakes topped with creamy cheesecake icing, fluffy green whipped cream, and cheerful red heart sprinkles. This fun, colorful breakfast recipe combines tender, fluffy pancakes with rich and light frosting for a delightful Christmas treat the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pancakes:
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Green food coloring, as needed
- Cooking spray, for the skillet
Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
Green Whipped Cream:
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red heart sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Icing: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and well combined. Add in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, then beat for 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Set aside.
- Make Green Whipped Cream: In another large bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on low speed until bubbles form, then increase to high speed. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. Chill in the refrigerator for up to 45 minutes until ready to use.
- Prepare Milk Mixture: Combine whole milk and white vinegar or lemon juice in a medium bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk the egg, melted butter, and green food coloring into the milk mixture until evenly combined. Pour the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients and gently whisk until just combined, making sure not to overmix; some small lumps are fine to keep the batter fluffy.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray. Pour ¼ cupfuls of batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then carefully flip with a spatula. Cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Assemble and Serve: Stack the cooked pancakes on plates. Top them generously with the cream cheese icing, dollops of green whipped cream, and sprinkle with red heart sprinkles for a festive finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your Christmas-themed Grinch Pancakes!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes and cream cheese frosting separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat pancakes in the microwave, oven, or toaster before frosting and serving.
- Freezing: Pancakes can be frozen for up to three months. Layer them between parchment paper and place in a zip-top freezer bag to prevent sticking.
- Use natural green food coloring or spinach powder for a healthier twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes with toppings
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
