Crème Brûlée Pancakes
Why I Chose to Make This Dish
There’s something undeniably special about a breakfast that feels like dessert. And when I’m craving a little extra indulgence, these Crème Brûlée Pancakes are my go-to. They bring together the best of both worlds: the fluffy, comforting goodness of pancakes with the rich, caramelized sugar topping that makes crème brûlée so unforgettable.
The first time I made these, my family couldn’t believe that something so delicious could come from our own kitchen. We’ve been hooked ever since, and I know you will be too. With each bite, you get that satisfying crack of caramelized sugar, followed by soft, buttery pancakes. It’s a recipe that’s sure to make your mornings feel a little more magical!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use a store-bought pancake mix for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you’re in a rush, using a store-bought mix can be a great time-saver. Just focus on perfecting that crème brûlée topping for the final touch.
Q: What’s the best way to caramelize the sugar?
A: A kitchen torch is ideal for an even, controlled caramelization. But if you don’t have one, you can use the broiler setting on your oven. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Q: Can I make the batter the night before?
A: Yes, you can! Prepare the batter, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a quick stir before cooking the pancakes in the morning.
Q: What type of sugar should I use for the caramelized topping?
A: Granulated sugar works best for achieving that perfect crunchy crust, but brown sugar can add a richer, more complex flavor if you prefer.
Q: Can I add flavors like cinnamon or vanilla to the batter?
A: Absolutely! Adding vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon can elevate the flavor of the pancakes even more, giving them a warm and cozy twist.
What You Need to Make Crème Brûlée Pancakes
- For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
How to Make Crème Brûlée Pancakes
- Prepare the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined (a few lumps are fine).
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Add the Crème Brûlée Topping: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a baking sheet. Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each pancake.
- Caramelize the Sugar: Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. Alternatively, place the pancakes under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stack the pancakes and serve with fresh berries if desired. Enjoy the delightful crunch as you crack into the caramelized top!
Tips for the Best Crème Brûlée Pancakes
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the batter mix evenly, ensuring fluffy pancakes.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: A few lumps are okay—overmixing can make the pancakes tough.
- Torch Technique: Keep the torch moving to avoid burning any one spot on the sugar.
- Serve Immediately: These pancakes are best enjoyed right after caramelizing the sugar so that the top stays crisp.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These pancakes are simply amazing! The caramelized top makes it feel so luxurious. My kids loved cracking the top!” – Lucy W.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made these for brunch and they were a hit! I used store-bought pancake mix and they still turned out fantastic.” – Rachel S.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Wow! These taste like something you’d get at a fancy brunch spot. Definitely making them again!” – Chris M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The recipe was easy to follow, but my sugar topping was a little uneven. Still tasted amazing though!” – Sara K.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect balance of sweet and creamy! My family couldn’t get enough of these.” – Megan J.
Printable Recipe Card
Crème Brûlée Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with these Crème Brûlée Pancakes! They feature a crispy, caramelized sugar topping that cracks just like the classic dessert, paired with fluffy buttermilk pancakes for a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients
- For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pancake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined (a few lumps are fine).
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Add the Crème Brûlée Topping: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a baking sheet. Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each pancake.
- Caramelize the Sugar: Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. Alternatively, place the pancakes under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stack the pancakes and serve with fresh berries if desired. Enjoy the delightful crunch as you crack into the caramelized top!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you enjoyed these Crème Brûlée Pancakes, I’d love for you to spread the word! Share this recipe on your social media and tag us so we can see your beautiful creations. It’s such a joy to know that this recipe is helping to make your mornings a little sweeter. Whether you’re enjoying these pancakes with your family over a cozy breakfast or sharing them with friends at brunch, sharing this recipe is a great way to bring a little extra indulgence to someone else’s day. Let’s spread the love, one delicious bite at a time!
