IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes: Easy Homemade Breakfast Recipe

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Some mornings call for something special a plate that feels like a treat yet warms the soul. That’s where Tasty IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes come in. Picture fluffy, chocolate-tinted stacks with a hint of cocoa and that deep red color, perfect for weekends or holidays. They’re simple, comforting, and taste just like the diner favorite but made right in your kitchen.

Why These Tasty IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes Are a Breakfast Favorite

These pancakes strike the perfect balance between indulgent and cozy. The cocoa gives them richness, while the vinegar and vanilla create that soft, bakery-style texture. Also, they’re quick to make and feel festive without the fuss of cake. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Christmas morning, or just a Sunday breakfast, these red velvet pancakes never disappoint.

What You’ll Need to Make Red Velvet Pancakes at Home

Key Ingredients Explained

Start with 2 cups of complete pancake mix it saves time and keeps things easy. The unsweetened cocoa powder and instant hot chocolate mix add depth and flavor. A touch of vinegar keeps them tender, and the red food coloring gives that classic red velvet look. Finally, vanilla extract ties everything together with warmth and aroma.

Best Type of Pancake Mix to Use

Choose a complete mix like Aunt Jemima Original or any similar “just add water” blend. These mixes already contain leavening, so the batter rises beautifully. Homemade flour mixes work too, but be sure to include baking powder and salt for fluffiness.

How to Make Tasty IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes Step-by-Step

Step 1: Mix the Batter Correctly

In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, cocoa, hot chocolate mix, water, vinegar, vanilla, and food coloring. Stir until everything comes together, but stop as soon as the flour streaks disappear. Overmixing makes pancakes dense instead of soft.

Step 2: Heat and Prep the Skillet

Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil it before pouring the batter. Waiting until the pan is evenly hot ensures the first pancake cooks perfectly no uneven browning or raw centers.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes to Fluffy Perfection

Spoon the batter into the skillet. When bubbles form and edges start to firm, flip gently. Cook the second side until it’s no longer shiny. Each pancake should feel springy and light.

Step 4: Finish the Batch and Keep Pancakes Warm

As you cook, keep finished pancakes on a plate covered with a clean towel or in a low oven (around 200°F). This keeps them warm without drying them out.

Fluffy red velvet pancakes topped with cream cheese glaze and whipped cream for a perfect breakfast.

Tips for the Best Red Velvet Pancakes Every Time

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Do not press down on pancakes while cooking. It releases the air that makes them fluffy. Let the batter rest 5–10 minutes before cooking so it can settle and thicken slightly.

Adjusting Food Coloring and Flavor Balance

Start with 1 teaspoon of red food coloring. You can add more for a deeper hue, but too much can affect taste. If you prefer natural coloring, try beetroot powder or puree.

Easy Ingredient Substitutions You Can Use

Out of something? Use beetroot puree for coloring, apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar, or skip vanilla entirely. You can also make a simple mix with flour, baking powder, and sugar if you don’t have boxed pancake mix.

What to Serve with Red Velvet Pancakes

These pair perfectly with cream cheese glaze, syrup, or whipped cream. Fresh berries, bacon, or a warm mug of cocoa take them to the next level. You can also try cinnamon sugar french toast muffins to pair with red velvet pancakes for a diner-style morning spread.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Skill Level

Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–35 minutes
Skill level: Easy

Even beginners can make these pancakes. The batter is forgiving and cooks evenly with just a few tries.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Guide

Store leftovers in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. They keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave for 20–30 seconds from the fridge or 45 seconds from the freezer. For a crisp edge, pop them in a toaster on low heat.

Estimated Nutrition for the Full Recipe

Calories: 600–700
Protein: 8–10 g
Fat: 2–4 g
Carbohydrates: 130–150 g

These numbers are for the full batch, so per serving, it’s lighter just enough to fuel your morning without feeling too heavy.

FAQs About Red Velvet Pancakes

What to put on red velvet pancakes?

Try cream cheese glaze, maple syrup, or powdered sugar. Fresh strawberries or whipped cream also work beautifully.

What is the most popular item at IHOP?

IHOP’s Original Buttermilk Pancakes remain their top seller, but the Red Velvet Pancakes are a close favorite for those craving something richer.

What do red velvet pancakes taste like?

They taste like a mild chocolate pancake with a hint of vanilla and a smooth, tender bite like dessert for breakfast.

What is the $130 pancake at IHOP?

That’s a luxury version made for a charity event, topped with edible gold and fancy ingredients. Your homemade version will taste just as satisfying without the price tag.

More Such Recipes

Stack of IHOP red velvet pancakes with cream cheese glaze and whipped cream
Red velvet pancakes topped with whipped cream and cream cheese glaze for a sweet breakfast moment.

Conclusion

Making Tasty IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes at home is easier than it looks. With pantry staples and a few quick steps, you can enjoy a diner-style breakfast anytime. Don’t forget to share your creations or save ideas for later on Pinterest or follow along on Facebook. Warm plates, bright mornings, and that sweet cocoa scent breakfast never felt this good.

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Stack of IHOP red velvet pancakes with cream cheese glaze and whipped cream

IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes: Easy Homemade Breakfast Recipe


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  • Author: kai
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 pancakes 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Fluffy, cocoa-rich, diner-style Tasty IHOP Red Velvet Pancakes made right at home. These pancakes are soft, vibrant, and perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup water

2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tsp instant hot chocolate mix

1 tsp vinegar

1 tsp red food coloring

2 cups pancake mix (complete type, such as Aunt Jemima Original)

1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the pancake mix, water, red food coloring, cocoa powder, hot chocolate mix, vanilla, and vinegar until just combined.

2. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it.

3. Spoon the batter onto the skillet and cook until bubbles form and edges set.

4. Flip each pancake and cook the other side until fluffy and cooked through.

5. Repeat until all batter is used and serve warm with toppings.

Notes

Do not overmix batter to avoid dense pancakes.

Let batter rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking for extra fluffiness.

Avoid pressing pancakes with a spatula.

Start with 1 tsp red food coloring and adjust as desired.

Cook over medium heat for even browning.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pancakes
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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