French Toast Pancakes
Golden, fluffy, and kissed with the warm spice of cinnamon, French Toast Pancakes are the perfect fusion of two beloved breakfast classics.
Each bite combines the airy softness of pancakes with the cozy, spiced sweetness of French toast, creating a dish that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. The subtle balance of vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar makes them irresistibly comforting, while a drizzle of maple syrup and a dusting of cinnamon sugar elevate them into something truly special.
Whether served for a leisurely weekend brunch or as a sweet weekday treat, these pancakes bring a sense of joy and warmth to the table.
Why People Will Love French Toast Pancakes:
Best of both worlds – combines the pillowy softness of pancakes with the nostalgic spiced sweetness of French toast.
Warm and comforting flavors – cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar create a cozy, familiar taste that feels like home.
Perfectly versatile – can be enjoyed plain, with syrup, or dressed up with fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Simple yet indulgent – made from everyday ingredients, but the flavor and aroma feel like a special treat.
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing – ideal for kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for brunches or gatherings.
Key Ingredients:
All-purpose flour – the foundation that gives these pancakes their tender yet sturdy structure.
Ground cinnamon – infuses every bite with warmth and a comforting spice that echoes classic French toast.
Eggs – bind the batter while adding richness, giving the pancakes a custard-like undertone.
Vanilla extract – brings aromatic depth and a subtle sweetness that lingers in the background.
Maple syrup – the finishing touch, its natural sweetness and caramel-like flavor elevating the dish into pure indulgence.
Expert Tips:
Don’t overmix the batter – Stirring just until the dry and wet ingredients come together prevents gluten from overdeveloping, keeping the pancakes light, tender, and fluffy.
Let the batter rest – Allowing it to sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking helps the flour hydrate fully and the baking powder activate, leading to better rise and texture.
Maintain steady heat – Cook on medium heat; too high and the pancakes will brown before the centers cook through, too low and they’ll dry out without achieving that golden crust.
Use fresh spices and real vanilla – Freshly ground cinnamon and pure vanilla extract (not imitation) bring a richness and authenticity that elevate the flavor.
Perfect the flip – Wait until bubbles form across the surface and the edges begin to look set before flipping; this ensures the pancakes are firm enough to hold their shape.
Customize toppings – Beyond maple syrup, try fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a café-style finish.
French Toast Pancakes
Ingredients
1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour – the base that gives structure to the pancakes
¼ cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and balance
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – infuses warm, spiced flavor reminiscent of French toast
1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder – helps the pancakes rise and stay fluffy
½ teaspoon baking soda – works with the baking powder for extra lift
2 large eggs – provide richness and bind the batter together
⅔ cup milk (skim, 2%, or whole) – adds moisture and tenderness
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – brings aromatic depth and warmth
½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor
2 tablespoons butter, for cooking – creates a golden, slightly crisp edge
Cinnamon sugar (optional) – a sweet-spiced topping for extra flavor
Maple syrup, for serving – the classic finishing touch
Instructions
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly blended.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine the Mixtures
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
Cook the Pancakes
Heat the butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. For each pancake, ladle about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface.
Flip and Finish
Cook until small bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve warm. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if desired, and drizzle generously with maple syrup.
Important Notes When Making French Toast Pancakes:
Measure precisely – Baking relies on balance. Too much flour will make the pancakes dense, while too much liquid can leave them flat and gummy.
Use room-temperature eggs and milk – Cold ingredients can shock the batter, preventing even mixing and reducing fluffiness.
Control cinnamon levels – Cinnamon adds warmth, but too much can overpower the delicate balance of vanilla and sugar. Adjust to taste, especially if adding cinnamon sugar on top.
Cook in batches, not overcrowded – Giving each pancake space in the skillet allows even cooking and makes flipping easier.
Serve immediately – These pancakes are best enjoyed hot off the griddle, as they lose their fluffiness if they sit too long. If holding, keep them warm in a low oven (200°F / 95°C).
Pair thoughtfully – The sweetness can be rich, so serving with fresh fruit or a squeeze of lemon can add brightness and balance.
How To Enjoy French Toast Pancakes After Cooking:
Serve Immediately for the Best Texture
French Toast Pancakes are at their peak when served hot off the skillet. The edges stay lightly crisp while the inside remains fluffy and tender.
If making a large batch, keep them warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a baking sheet until ready to serve.
Pair with Classic Toppings
Maple syrup – drizzle generously for sweetness that enhances the cinnamon-vanilla flavors.
Cinnamon sugar – a sprinkle on top doubles down on the French toast vibe.
Powdered sugar – for a light, café-style touch.
Add Fresh Elements
Top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for brightness.
Sliced bananas or sautéed apples add natural sweetness and pair beautifully with cinnamon.
A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream creates creaminess to balance the syrup.
Pair with Beverages
A hot cup of coffee or cappuccino deepens the comforting breakfast experience.
For kids or a lighter option, serve with a glass of cold milk or warm chai tea.
Freshly squeezed orange juice offers a refreshing, citrusy contrast.
Make It a Special Brunch
Stack the pancakes tall, add layers of fruit between them, and drizzle syrup over the top for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece.
Serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to balance sweetness with savory elements.
For an indulgent finish, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and turn it into a dessert-style treat.
Nutrition Information:
For French Toast Pancakes (per pancake, assuming about 10 pancakes total from the batter):
Calories: 165 kcal | Total Fat: 6.5 g | Saturated Fat: 3.1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2.2 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.7 g | Cholesterol: 55 mg | Sodium: 210 mg | Total Carbohydrates: 23 g | Dietary Fiber: 0.9 g | Sugars: 8 g | Protein: 4.5 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
What makes French Toast Pancakes different from regular pancakes?
They combine the warm, spiced flavors of French toast—thanks to cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar—with the fluffy texture of pancakes, creating a unique breakfast hybrid.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to make the batter fresh, as the baking powder and soda lose effectiveness over time. However, you can pre-mix the dry ingredients the night before to save time.
How can I make these pancakes healthier?
Use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose, swap skim milk for whole, and reduce sugar slightly. You can also cook with coconut oil instead of butter for a lighter fat profile.
What toppings pair best with these pancakes?
Maple syrup and cinnamon sugar are classics, but fresh berries, sliced bananas, or Greek yogurt add brightness and balance the sweetness.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Let pancakes cool completely, then stack with parchment paper between each layer. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven for best texture.
How do I keep the pancakes light and fluffy?
Avoid overmixing the batter—stir just until the dry and wet ingredients come together. Overworking develops gluten, making pancakes dense.
What’s the best way to know when to flip the pancakes?
Wait until bubbles form across the surface and the edges look slightly set. This ensures the bottom is golden and the pancake holds together when flipped.
Can I adjust the cinnamon flavor?
Yes. If you prefer a stronger French toast flavor, increase cinnamon slightly. For a lighter spice profile, reduce it and let vanilla be the dominant note.
Why did my pancakes turn out too dark or undercooked?
This usually means the heat was too high. Cook on medium heat to allow the inside to cook through while the outside browns evenly.
Can I substitute milk with non-dairy options?
Absolutely. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work well. Just note that unsweetened versions may alter the flavor slightly, while sweetened ones will make the pancakes richer in taste.