Cranberry Orange Pancakes: 10 Minute Fluffy Recipe

Name: Cranberry Orange Pancakes: 10 Minute Fluffy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1 tbsp orange zest; 1/4 cup orange juice

by basmer

1 de November de 2025

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Cranberry orange pancakes have become my go-to for special weekend breakfasts, and I’m so excited to share this amazing cranberry orange pancake recipe with you! I remember the first time I tried making them from scratch; the kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma of warm citrus and sweet berries, and the resulting pancakes were so light and flavorful. Learning how to make cranberry orange pancakes turned out to be surprisingly simple, and now they’re a cherished tradition in my home. They’re perfect for a cozy Sunday morning or even a festive holiday brunch. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Pancake Recipe

Seriously, you’re going to adore making these pancakes. Here’s why:

Taste Sensation: The perfect marriage of tart cranberries and bright orange zest creates a flavor explosion you won’t forget.
Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep, these are truly easy cranberry orange pancakes for any morning.
Wholesome Goodness: Packed with fruit, these pancakes offer a healthier way to start your day.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple pantry staples makes this a delicious treat that won’t break the bank.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour these delightful pancakes.
Incredibly Light: You’ll be amazed at how wonderfully fluffy cranberry orange pancakes turn out every time.
Festive Flair: They bring a touch of holiday cheer to any breakfast table, making ordinary mornings feel special.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Making the perfect cranberry orange pancake batter is simple with these ingredients. I’ve found that using fresh ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor and texture of these homemade delights.

1 cup all-purpose flour – the base for our fluffy pancakes
2 tbsp sugar – for just a touch of sweetness
1 tsp baking powder – helps create that light and airy texture
1/2 tsp baking soda – works with the buttermilk for extra lift
1/4 tsp salt – enhances all the other flavors
3/4 cup buttermilk – this is key for tenderness and helps activate the baking soda
1 large egg – acts as a binder and adds richness
2 tbsp melted butter – for moisture and a lovely golden color
1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped – these add bursts of tart flavor and beautiful color
1 tbsp orange zest – this is where the bright citrus magic happens!
1/4 cup orange juice – adds more orange flavor and helps thin the batter to the right consistency

How to Make Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Creating these delightful pancakes from scratch is easier than you think! Get ready for a breakfast that smells as amazing as it tastes.

Step 1: Preheat your griddle or a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. I like to test the heat by flicking a tiny bit of water; it should sizzle and evaporate quickly. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. This dry mix forms the base of your fluffy pancakes.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3/4 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, 1 tbsp orange zest, and 1/4 cup orange juice. The orange zest will release its wonderful aroma as you mix.
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine – don’t overmix, or your homemade cranberry orange pancakes might turn out tough!
Step 5: Gently fold in the 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the cranberry orange pancake batter.
Step 6: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto your hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set. This is a good indicator that it’s time to flip your cranberry orange pancakes from scratch.
Step 7: Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and cooked through. The kitchen will smell absolutely incredible at this point!
Step 8: Serve your beautiful cranberry orange pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of extra orange zest.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Want to elevate your pancake game? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this best cranberry orange pancake recipe truly shine. Follow these tips for consistently delicious results!

Don’t Overmix the Batter: Seriously, this is crucial for light and fluffy pancakes. A few lumps are your friend! Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough pancakes.
Rest the Batter: Letting the cranberry orange pancake batter sit for 5-10 minutes allows the gluten to relax and the leavening agents to start working, creating that perfect texture.
Medium Heat is Key: Cooking on too high heat will burn the outside before the inside is cooked. Medium heat ensures an even golden-brown crust and a fluffy interior.
Use Room Temperature Buttermilk: While not strictly necessary, room temperature ingredients often incorporate better, leading to a smoother batter.

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Pancakes?

The magic lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Using buttermilk and baking soda creates incredible lift, while the orange zest and fresh cranberries provide vibrant flavor. Getting the best batter for cranberry orange pancakes means mixing just until combined, then letting it rest!

Can I make Cranberry Orange Pancakes ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. In the morning, just combine them, fold in the cranberries and zest, and cook. This makes for super quick cranberry orange pancakes on busy mornings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Pancakes?

The biggest pitfall is overmixing the batter, which leads to tough pancakes. Another common mistake is using a griddle that’s too hot, burning the outside. Ensure your cooking surface is at a steady medium heat for even cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Pancakes

These delightful pancakes are fantastic on their own, but I love dressing them up with a few simple additions. They truly shine with complementary flavors and textures.

Classic Maple Syrup: You can never go wrong with warm maple syrup! It complements the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the orange perfectly.
Whipped Cream & More Zest: For a touch of indulgence, top your stack with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A little extra sprinkle of cranberry orange pancakes with zest on top adds a beautiful visual and an extra pop of citrus aroma.
Yogurt & Fruit: A side of plain Greek yogurt or a simple fruit salad makes these pancakes feel even more wholesome and refreshing. The creamy yogurt provides a lovely contrast to the bright flavors.

Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Orange Pancakes

These delightful pancakes are surprisingly balanced! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (which is about 2 pancakes). They’re a wonderful way to enjoy a sweet breakfast treat.

Calories: 220
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 350mg
Cholesterol: 55mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade cranberry orange pancakes. For more information on healthy eating, consider these foods to eat less of.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Don’t let any leftover deliciousness go to waste! Storing and reheating these cranberry orange pancakes is super simple, making them a perfect option for future quick breakfasts.

Cool Completely: Before storing, make sure your pancakes have cooled down entirely. Storing them warm can create condensation, leading to sogginess.
Airtight Containers: Once cool, stack your pancakes in an airtight container. You can place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Refrigerator Storage: In the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. This is great for enjoying homemade pancakes throughout the week.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze them! Wrap the container tightly or place individual pancakes in freezer bags. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating is just as easy. For refrigerated pancakes, a quick zap in the microwave or a few minutes in a toaster oven works wonders. Frozen pancakes can be defrosted overnight in the fridge and then reheated, or you can reheat them directly from frozen in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes per side. This makes enjoying quick cranberry orange pancakes a breeze, even on the busiest mornings!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Pancakes

Are these Cranberry Orange Pancakes good for a crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully, making it perfect for feeding a hungry family or for a brunch party. You can easily double or triple the batch. Just make sure your griddle is large enough or you have a system for cooking them in batches to keep them warm.

What makes these Cranberry Orange Pancakes so light and fluffy?

The secret to achieving those wonderfully light and fluffy cranberry orange pancakes lies in a couple of key ingredients and techniques. The combination of buttermilk and baking soda creates a fantastic reaction that gives them lift. Additionally, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and actually help keep the pancakes tender and airy.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! If using dried cranberries, I recommend soaking them in a bit of warm water or orange juice for about 10-15 minutes before adding them to the batter. This plumps them up and prevents them from absorbing moisture from the pancakes, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.

What are some other fruit additions that work well?

While cranberries and orange are a classic combo, feel free to experiment! Blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples would be delicious. You could also pair these with a different citrus, like lemon zest and juice, for a slightly different flavor profile. The possibilities for these homemade delights are endless!

Variations of Cranberry Orange Pancakes You Can Try

While this classic recipe is amazing, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many delicious ways to put your own spin on these delightful pancakes.

Holiday Cranberry Orange Pancakes: For an extra festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dry ingredients. A drizzle of maple syrup infused with a sprig of rosemary makes these perfect for a special holiday brunch.
Gluten-Free Version: Easily make these gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, so start with a bit less orange juice and add more if needed to reach the right batter consistency.
Vegan Delight: For a vegan twist, use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of a regular egg. Substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk (like almond or soy) mixed with 1 tsp of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes to curdle.
Savory Twist: Believe it or not, you can even make a savory version! Reduce the sugar to 1 tbsp and add a pinch of black pepper. Serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chives instead of syrup.