Description
These Fluffy Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes combine soft, airy pancakes with a creamy cheesecake filling and a sweet strawberry compote, perfect for an indulgent breakfast or brunch. Layered with fresh strawberries, a luscious cream cheese mixture, and topped with whipped cream and maple syrup, these pancakes offer a gourmet twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Pancake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Strawberry Compote
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Toppings & Garnish
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Extra strawberries and mint, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream together using a mixer until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Set this creamy filling aside for layering later.
- Make the strawberry compote: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes thick and syrupy. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix the pancake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just blended; avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes fluffy.
- Cook the pancakes: Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter per pancake onto the heated surface. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat to make 12 pancakes.
- Assemble the pancakes: Stack three pancakes per serving, spreading a layer of cheesecake filling between each pancake, followed by a spoonful of strawberry compote. Top the stack with whipped cream, drizzle with maple syrup, add extra strawberries and mint if desired, and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending and a creamier cheesecake filling.
- To make the strawberry compote thicker, cook a few minutes longer to reduce more liquid.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with lemon juice and use dairy-free cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while finishing the batch for best serving temperature.
- Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together to avoid tough pancakes.