Name: Orange Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487484H56M53S
Total time: PT-487484H56M53S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 large egg; 1 cup milk; 2 tbsp melted butter; Zest of 1 large orange; 2 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional Toppings: fresh orange slices, maple syrup or orange syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream

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Orange Pancakes are a bright and refreshing twist on the classic breakfast favorite. The zesty orange flavor infuses the fluffy pancakes, making them light, citrusy, and perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch. Topped with orange syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar, they bring a burst of sunshine to your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light, fluffy pancakes with a burst of fresh orange flavor.
Perfect for adding a citrusy twist to your morning routine.
Simple ingredients that make a big impact.
Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion.
Can be easily customized with extra toppings like whipped cream, berries, or nuts.

Orange Pancakes

Ingredients

1½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
1 large egg
1 cup milk
2 tbsp melted butter
Zest of 1 large orange
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

Fresh orange slices
Maple syrup or orange syrup
Powdered sugar
Whipped cream

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then stir in the milk, melted butter, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix. The batter should be a little lumpy.
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Keep the pancakes warm in the oven on low heat while you cook the rest of the batch.
Serve pancakes stacked, topped with orange slices, a drizzle of syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 pancakes and takes 10 minutes of prep time plus 15–20 minutes of cooking.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or blueberries to the batter for extra flavor.
Use whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious option.
Swap the butter for coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Make it vegan by using a flax egg and almond milk.
Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a toaster for a crispy texture. You can also freeze pancakes for up to 1 month—just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and reheat in the microwave or toaster.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, but fresh orange juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

How can I make these pancakes fluffier?

Make sure to not overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine. Also, try using buttermilk instead of regular milk for an even fluffier texture.

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

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

How do I know when the pancakes are done?

When the edges look set and bubbles start forming on the surface, flip the pancakes. They should be golden brown on both sides.

Can I add more orange flavor?

Absolutely! Add more orange zest or a splash of orange extract to the batter for a more intense citrus flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Orange Pancakes are a bright, citrusy twist on the traditional pancake recipe. Fluffy, light, and bursting with fresh orange flavor, they’re perfect for brightening up your morning. Whether you top them with fresh fruit, syrup, or whipped cream, these pancakes are sure to become a new favorite for your breakfast or brunch spread!