Easy Orange Pancakes

I have always loved starting my mornings with something bright and cheerful, and these Orange Pancakes with homemade orange syrup are my favorite way to bring sunshine to the table. I still remember the first time I made them — it was on a lazy Sunday morning when I wanted something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The kitchen filled with the citrusy aroma of freshly squeezed oranges, and by the time I poured the golden syrup over the stack of fluffy pancakes, everyone was already gathered at the table. This recipe has since become a weekend tradition in my home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These orange pancakes are a burst of flavor in every bite. They are light, fluffy, and perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of orange syrup. The combination of fresh orange zest and juice makes them taste fresh and vibrant, unlike any regular pancake recipe. You will love how simple they are to prepare while still feeling like a special treat. Whether it’s breakfast with family, brunch with friends, or a cozy solo morning, these pancakes can make any day feel a little more exciting.

Versatile

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can enjoy the pancakes just as they are or dress them up with toppings like fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The orange syrup can also be used on waffles, French toast, or even drizzled over yogurt for a fresh and fruity twist.

Affordable

This recipe is budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home. With just flour, eggs, milk, and a few oranges, you can make a beautiful breakfast without spending a lot of money. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone looking to make something delicious on a budget.

Ingredients for the Recipe

For the pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg

• ¾ cup milk

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice

• 1 tablespoon orange zest

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the orange syrup:

• ½ cup fresh orange juice

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

• 1 tablespoon butter

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making these Orange Pancakes with Orange Syrup is a simple, enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with a bright citrus aroma. I always recommend gathering all ingredients first to make the process smooth and stress-free. The steps are quick and easy, making this a great recipe for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. In another bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and melted butter. Stir until combined. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the pancakes dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 2: Preheat the Pan
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and allow it to warm up for a minute or two. Lightly grease it with butter or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. I always test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate, it is ready.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook until small bubbles form on the surface and the edges look slightly set, usually 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the pancakes carefully with a spatula and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes on the other side until golden brown. Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 4: Prepare the Orange Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine fresh orange juice and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat while stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir continuously until the syrup thickens slightly, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until smooth and glossy. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Stack the warm pancakes on a serving plate, then pour the hot orange syrup generously over the top. You can garnish with extra orange zest or a few slices of fresh orange for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It is perfect for mornings when you want something special but do not want to spend hours cooking. The batter can even be mixed ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight to save time in the morning.

Customizable

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or replace the sugar with honey. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spiced flavor. If you want a richer syrup, stir in a little cream at the end for a velvety finish.

Popular with Many People

These pancakes are always a hit with both kids and adults. The bright citrus flavor is refreshing and pairs well with a variety of breakfast sides like scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad. They are also a wonderful dish to serve during spring celebrations, Mother’s Day brunches, or holiday mornings when you want to impress guests with a homemade breakfast that feels restaurant-worthy.

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FAQs

Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Give it a quick stir in the morning before cooking to ensure everything is well combined.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor. However, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Just make sure it is 100% orange juice without added sugar to avoid making the pancakes too sweet.

How can I make the pancakes fluffier?
To keep the pancakes light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Letting the batter rest for five minutes before cooking can also improve the texture.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles very well. Simply double all the ingredients and cook the pancakes in batches, keeping the finished ones warm in a low oven until serving.

Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
Yes. Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each one. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two months. Reheat in a toaster or oven for the best results.

What can I use instead of butter in the syrup?
You can use a neutral oil like sunflower oil or a small amount of coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. This will still give the syrup a nice glossy finish.