Cake Mix Pancakes with Icing Syrup

You can make cake mix pancakes in so many different flavors! This post shows how to turn a boxed cake mix and simple ingredients into a delicious breakfast treat, complete with gooey icing syrup.

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Welcome to a recipe I've been perfecting for 10 years. That picture you see above was taken the morning of my daughter's 3rd birthday. She's 11 now! That's how long we've used and loved this cake mix pancakes recipe.

Pancakes with cake mix?

Yes, it actually works! Cake mix has way more uses than just cake. I've used it before in pumpkin cheesecake bars and cake mix cookies; today's recipe ventures into breakfast territory.

Using cake mix to make a pancake batter is actually kind of genius. You can use any flavor you'd like. If they make that cake mix flavor, it's usable.

Cake mix already has all of the sweetness and flavor you'll need in your pancake. You'll only need to add a couple of basic ingredients to make a really fun, sweet treat that's perfect for a Saturday morning breakfast.

Ingredients, Variations, & Additions

Ingredient Notes:

• I know it seems a little redundant to add even more flour to the cake mix, but it's necessary. Without the extra flour and baking powder, the pancake batter is too thin and you won't get those nice, fluffy pancakes.
• Don't be tempted to use a different fat; butter's the only way! I don't recommend using vegetable oil or canola oil in this recipe; the butter gives the pancakes a nice richness.
• I've used a strawberry cake mix and strawberries in the picture above, but that's absolutely changeable! As I mentioned above, you can use any cake mix under the sun. A few ideas...
  • Yellow cake mix
  • Funfetti cake mix
  • Chocolate cake mix
  • Spice cake mix (perfect for fall)

Additions

Just as you can change up the cake mix flavor, you can change the add-ins too. I used strawberries with my strawberry cake mix. You could change that to...

• chocolate chips
• sprinkles
• blueberries
• pineapple tidbits (slightly chopped)
• chopped bananas

Pancake Topping Ideas

I think the whipped cream, icing syrup, and sprinkles are kind of a classic topping for cake mix pancakes. It's what we've always used in our home. A few more fun ideas...

• chocolate chips
• warm peanut butter or Nutella (drizzles perfectly)
• pancake syrup or maple syrup
• fresh fruit
• banana chips
• crushed nuts
• ice cream

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

For Icing Syrup...

Mix powdered sugar, half and half, and vanilla extract in a measuring cup. Stir until blended with no lumps.

(Note: This is totally optional! The icing syrup pairs perfectly with the cake mix pancakes, but you can omit it if you'd like.)

For Cake Mix Pancakes...

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together dry ingredients (strawberry cake mix, flour, and baking powder) with a fork. Add in eggs, milk, and butter; whisk well.

Step 2: Pour 5-6 inch pools of pancake batter onto a heated griddle or skillet (sprayed with cooking spray) over medium heat. Sprinkle any add-ins (like strawberries) over the uncooked pancakes.

(We use and love this griddle in our home. It stays on our stove all the time!)

Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the batter starts to bubble and the cooked side starts to turn golden brown.

Step 3: Drizzle pancakes with a generous portion of icing. Top with whipped cream and sprinkles.

Video

Storage & Reheating

Any uneaten pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Depending on your add-ins, these should be good for 2-3 days (the more moisture in the add-ins, the shorter shelf life you'll get).

When ready to enjoy again, you can pop it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the toaster oven for 2-3 minutes.

They can also be frozen! Place pancakes flat on a cookie sheet and pop them in the freezer for a few hours. Once they are frozen, you can store them in a freezer bag for up to 6 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat the frozen pancake on a griddle or in a toaster oven.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Make sure your griddle/pan is hot before adding the pancake batter. This allows each side to get nice and golden brown.
• Once your pancakes start to bubble, wait about 30 seconds before flipping.
• Don't mix add-ins into the batter. Instead, sprinkle them over the pancakes after pouring batter onto the griddle. This ensures everything is distributed evenly and that each pancake gets an even amount of add-ins.

Strawberry Cake Mix Pancakes FAQs