Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes

If you’re looking for a fun and festive breakfast idea, these Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes are just the ticket! They are fluffy, bright green, and absolutely perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family brunch. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also a delightful treat that brings smiles to faces young and old. You can whip them up on busy mornings or save them for special occasions that call for a bit of cheer.

What makes this recipe even more special is how it creates lasting memories. Imagine your loved ones gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as they dig into these whimsical pancakes topped with sweet cream cheese icing and colorful sprinkles. Trust me; you’ll want to add this to your collection of favorite recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious pancakes in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the vibrant green color and sweet toppings; it’s a fun way to brighten up breakfast.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a weekend treat, these pancakes fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the batter in advance so you can enjoy fresh pancakes with minimal effort.
• Deliciously Fun: The combination of flavors is irresistible, making these pancakes a hit at any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Gather these items for a delightful pancake experience that everyone will love!

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3-5 tablespoons milk

For the Whipped Cream

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• green food coloring

For the Pancakes

• 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1-1/4 cups buttermilk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• green food coloring
• small red heart candies or jumbo red heart sprinkles

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
• Make Them Vegan: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk and butter.
• Change Up the Toppings: Use flavored whipped cream or fresh fruit instead of candy hearts for a healthier option.
• Try Different Flavors: Experiment with adding mint extract or lemon zest to give your pancakes a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

Start by mixing together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. This creamy icing will be drizzled over your fluffy green pancakes. It’s essential to get it well-blended so it spreads easily later!

Step 2: Whip Up Your Whipped Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add in sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a few drops of green food coloring. This deliciously light topping adds both flavor and a pop of festive color!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. These dry ingredients are crucial as they create the fluffy texture of your pancakes. Be sure to whisk them well so everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the beaten egg, buttermilk, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and green food coloring. Mixing wet ingredients separately helps ensure an even blend when combined with dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing; this keeps your pancakes light and airy—exactly what you want for that perfect bite!

Step 6: Cook Your Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides. Repeat until all batter is used—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Serve with Love

Stack those beautiful green pancakes high on plates! Drizzle with cream cheese icing and top with whipped cream before adding those cute little red heart candies or sprinkles on top. Watch everyone’s eyes light up when they see this festive dish! Enjoy every delicious bite together!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat IHOP Grinch Pancakes

Making these festive pancakes is a joyous experience, and a few handy tips will ensure they turn out perfectly fluffy and delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baking powder and baking soda are key to getting your pancakes light and fluffy. Stale leavening agents can lead to dense pancakes.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine your dry and wet ingredients until just mixed; some lumps are okay. Overmixing can make the pancakes tough instead of tender.
• Adjust the green color: Start with a few drops of green food coloring and gradually add more until you reach your desired shade of green. This way, you control the vibrancy without going overboard.
• Keep pancakes warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the finished pancakes warm in an oven set to low (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve. This keeps them fluffy and prevents them from cooling down too quickly.
• Experiment with toppings: While cream cheese icing and whipped cream are fantastic, feel free to get creative! Other toppings like fruit or even a sprinkle of coconut can add new flavors and textures.

How to Serve Copycat IHOP Grinch Pancakes

Presentation is key when it comes to serving these delightful green pancakes. They’re not only tasty but also visually captivating, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or special breakfast occasions!

Garnishes

• Candy hearts: Sprinkle small red heart candies or jumbo red heart sprinkles on top for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can provide a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and is a healthy balance to the rich flavors of the pancakes.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that’s also nutritious.
• Breakfast sausages: Opt for plant-based breakfast sausages as a savory side that pairs well with sweet pancakes.
• Smoothies: A vibrant smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk can be a delicious way to kick off your meal while adding extra nutrients.

These ideas will not only elevate your pancake experience but also create an inviting breakfast spread that everyone will love! Enjoy creating your festive feast with these Copycat IHOP Grinch Pancakes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors throughout the holiday season. Here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow pancakes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Stack pancakes with parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking.
• Wrap the stack tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For quick reheating, use a microwave on medium power for about 30 seconds per pancake.
• Alternatively, reheat pancakes in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes.

Can I make Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before cooking!

What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream for the frosting?

You can substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping if you’re looking for a lighter option without dairy.

Can I add other toppings to my Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes?

Absolutely! You can get creative with toppings like fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or even sprinkles to make your pancakes extra festive.

How do I achieve the perfect green color for my Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes?

Start with a few drops of green food coloring and mix well. Add more as needed until you reach your desired shade of green!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Copycat IHOP Grinch pancakes as much as I do! They bring a cheerful touch to any breakfast table and are sure to become a family favorite during the holidays. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and share your unique twists on this recipe. Happy cooking, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and delicious treats!