How to Make Adorable Christmas Pancakes
Christmas is the season of joy, laughter, and fun little surprises, and what better way to sprinkle some festive cheer into your mornings than with these adorable Santa Hat Pancakes? Whether you’re making breakfast extra special for your kids or your Elf on the Shelf wants to “cook up” some Christmas magic, this simple DIY is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Using my favorite H-E-B Pancake & Waffle Mix, whipped cream, and a strawberry, you can create a stack of pancakes topped with a cute little Santa hat in just minutes. It’s easy, festive, and guaranteed to make everyone smile! Plus, I’ll share ideas for incorporating these pancakes into your Christmas traditions and movie marathons.
Let’s dive into this quick, easy, and oh-so-cute Christmas pancake tutorial!
Why Make Christmas Pancakes?
Breakfast is often overlooked during the busy holiday season, but it can be a great way to slow down and create special memories. These pancakes are:
• Festive: The Santa hat detail instantly brings Christmas cheer to the table.
• Simple: You don’t need to be a master chef to make them.
• Interactive: Let your kids or family members join in the fun of assembling their pancakes.
• Perfect for Elf on the Shelf: Imagine the delight on your kids’ faces when they find out their elf whipped up these pancakes overnight!
What You’ll Need for Your Christmas Pancakes
This recipe keeps it simple with minimal ingredients and tools, so you can focus on enjoying the moment. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
• H-E-B Pancake & Waffle Mix: This mix is my go-to for fluffy and delicious pancakes.
• Water or Milk: Follow the instructions on your pancake mix for the perfect batter consistency.
• Reddi Whip: The whipped cream adds the fluffy “fur” to Santa’s hat.
• Strawberries: These act as the top of the hat. Look for medium-sized strawberries for the best proportion.
Tools:
• Non-Stick Griddle or Pan
• Measuring Cups
• Spatula
• Mixing Bowl
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Santa Hat Pancakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Pancake Batter
Follow the instructions on your H-E-B Pancake & Waffle Mix box. I love this mix because it’s quick, foolproof, and yields consistently fluffy pancakes.
• Combine the mix with water (or milk for a richer flavor).
• Stir until smooth—avoid overmixing, as that can make the pancakes dense.
Step 2: Cook the Pancakes
Heat your griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour small amounts of batter onto the pan to create evenly sized pancakes. I recommend making a stack of 4-5 pancakes for each plate. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute or two.
Step 3: Assemble the Santa Hat
Now for the fun part!
1. Stack your pancakes neatly on a plate.
2. Add the Reddi-Whip on the top pancake to create the fluffy “base” of Santa’s hat.
3. Place a strawberry on top, pointed side up.
4. Add a small dot of whipped cream to the top of the strawberry to finish the Santa hat look.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your pancakes immediately with a side of syrup if desired. Pair them with hot cocoa or a festive coffee to complete the experience.
Creative Twists and Ideas
Want to take your Christmas pancakes to the next level? Here are some fun variations and ideas to make them even more magical:
1. Elf on the Shelf Edition
Have your Elf on the Shelf leave a note next to the pancakes, “I made breakfast for you!” You can scatter a little flour or powdered sugar around to make it look like the elf had fun “cooking.”
2. Make it a Family Activity
Let your kids or family members assemble their own pancakes. Provide a variety of toppings like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or mini marshmallows so they can customize their stacks.
3. Use Different Fruit
While strawberries are the classic Santa hat topper, you could use raspberries or even a cherry for a different take.
4. Christmas Brunch Board
Turn these pancakes into the centerpiece of a festive breakfast charcuterie board. Surround the pancakes with fruit, bacon, scrambled eggs, and other breakfast goodies for a holiday spread.
Pairing Your Pancakes with Christmas Movies
To make the experience even more festive, pair these pancakes with a Christmas Movie Marathon from my Christmas Movie Countdown blog post. Here are a few ideas to match your pancakes with a movie:
• The Polar Express: Sip hot cocoa alongside your pancakes for the ultimate breakfast-movie combo.
• Elf: Add a drizzle of syrup on the pancakes, just like Buddy the Elf would!
• Home Alone: Serve your pancakes with pizza (because, why not?) for a fun nod to Kevin’s favorite food.
Check out my Christmas Movie Countdown post for more inspiration and movie suggestions!
Why I Love H-E-B Pancake Mix
I’ve tried a lot of pancake mixes, and H-E-B’s Pancake & Waffle Mix is hands-down my favorite. Here’s why:
• Consistent Quality: The pancakes always come out fluffy and golden.
• Easy to Use: With just a few simple steps, you’re ready to cook.
• Perfect for Customization: Whether you’re adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or Santa hats, this mix works perfectly every time.
If you’re in Texas, you can find this mix at your local H-E-B store. Trust me—it’s a holiday breakfast game-changer!
Tips for the Best Christmas Pancakes
1. Preheat the Pan: Ensure your griddle or pan is hot before pouring the batter. This helps achieve evenly cooked pancakes with that perfect golden color.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, rubbery pancakes.
3. Keep it Warm: If you’re making pancakes for a crowd, keep them warm in the oven at 200°F until ready to serve.
4. Cut Strawberries in Advance: Prep your strawberries the night before to save time in the morning.
5. Have Fun with It: Remember, the goal is to create a magical experience, so don’t stress about perfection!
Make It a Christmas Tradition
One of the best parts of the holiday season is creating traditions, and these pancakes are perfect for starting one. Imagine waking up every Christmas morning to the smell of pancakes on the griddle and the sight of Santa hats topping each stack. Whether it’s just for your family or part of a larger Christmas brunch, this simple DIY can become a cherished tradition year after year.
Stay Connected This Holiday Season
I hope this simple and festive pancake DIY brings as much joy to your family as it does to mine. I’d love to see how you’re recreating these Santa Hat Pancakes at home! Don’t forget to:
• Subscribe to my newsletter: You’ll get exclusive holiday ideas, DIY projects, and recipes delivered straight to your inbox.
• Follow me on social media (@AshtonSedita): I’m sharing more holiday content, including decor ideas and fun Christmas breakfasts. Be sure to tag me in your pancake creations—I can’t wait to see your festive setups!
Final Thoughts: Sweet and Simple Christmas Fun
This Christmas Pancake DIY proves that sometimes the simplest ideas can bring the biggest smiles. Whether you’re surprising your kids, hosting a holiday breakfast, or letting your Elf on the Shelf take credit, these Santa Hat Pancakes are a guaranteed hit. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you can create a breakfast that’s as festive as it is delicious.
So grab your H-E-B Pancake Mix, a can of Ready Whip, and some strawberries, and let the holiday magic begin. And if you’re looking for even more festive inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Christmas Movie Countdown blog post to pair your pancakes with the perfect holiday film.
XOXO, Ashton
