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; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup fresh cranberries

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

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

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-08T23:25:28.481Z

These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes are a delightful way to enjoy breakfast. The tartness of cranberries combined with the zest of fresh oranges creates a refreshing twist on traditional pancakes.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Bursting with juicy cranberries and zesty orange flavor
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or a cozy brunch

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

These Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes are not just any pancakes; they are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. The combination of tart cranberries and bright orange zest elevates the humble pancake to a whole new level, making them perfect for special occasions or a cozy morning at home. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more.

What sets these pancakes apart is their airy texture, achieved through a careful balance of ingredients and gentle mixing. The buttermilk adds a creaminess that complements the fruity elements beautifully. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday brunch or a weekend treat, these pancakes are sure to impress your family and friends.

A Versatile Recipe for Any Occasion

Not only are these Fluffy Cranberry Orange Pancakes delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins such as walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, they can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings, from classic maple syrup to a dollop of yogurt and fresh berries, allowing you to personalize each serving.

These pancakes are also a fantastic way to use up any leftover cranberries from the holiday season, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Their vibrant color and festive taste make them a delightful addition to any breakfast table, especially during the fall and winter months.

Tips for the Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the perfect pancake, it’s essential to not overmix the batter. Stir until the ingredients are just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will ensure your pancakes remain light and fluffy. Also, let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking to allow the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

When cooking, ensure your skillet is adequately preheated, and don't overcrowd the pan. This allows for even cooking and prevents the pancakes from steaming, which can make them dense. Flip the pancakes only once to achieve that golden-brown exterior, and keep them warm in the oven while you finish cooking the batch.

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

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

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and orange zest. Mix well.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the cranberries.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.

Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast.

For the best texture when reheating, opt for the toaster oven if you have one. This method helps retain their fluffiness while warming them through. You can also pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes if you're reheating a larger batch.

Nutritional Benefits

These pancakes not only taste great but also pack a nutritional punch. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which contribute to overall health. They also provide dietary fiber, which is essential for digestion. The addition of orange zest adds vitamin C, boosting your immune system, especially during colder months.

Using buttermilk in the recipe not only enhances the flavor but also adds calcium and protein. This makes these pancakes a more wholesome breakfast option compared to traditional pancakes, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

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

→ How do I store leftover pancakes?

You can store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Just use 1 cup of milk and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes.