I found a photo of some rainbow pancakes not too long ago and just HAD to make them for the kiddos for breakfast. They were so bright and colorful and just looked fun to make, so I’m bringing them to you.

These pancakes aren’t really anything special except that they are fun colors and stacked into a rainbow. I just used the basic box pancake mix for these and then separated them into different bowls and added food coloring to change the color of the batter.

They are great for a quick weekend breakfast when you don’t feel like making pancakes or waffles or whatever from scratch but still want to make something a little special.

Plus, who can resist rainbow colored pancakes?!

What are Rainbow Pancakes?

Rainbow Pancakes are a fun twist on the classic pancake recipe. By adding food coloring to the batter, you can create a stack of pancakes in a variety of vibrant colors. This recipe is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. The origin of this recipe can be traced back to the idea of making breakfast more exciting and enjoyable, especially for children. The colorful pancakes can also be a great way to celebrate holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Fun and Colorful: These pancakes are a feast for the eyes and the stomach. The bright colors make them perfect for special occasions or just to add a little fun to your morning.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch of these pancakes in no time.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping to mix the batter and add the food coloring. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
• Versatile: You can customize the colors to match any theme or occasion.

Ingredients

• Pancake Mix: The foundation of our pancakes, providing a fluffy and light texture that is perfect for soaking up syrup and other toppings.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter, ensuring the pancakes are tender and flavorful.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding structure to the pancakes, resulting in a satisfying, airy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses the batter with a warm, sweet aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile of the pancakes.
• Food Coloring: The star of the show, transforming ordinary pancakes into a vibrant, rainbow-colored delight that is sure to impress.

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Substitutions & Additions

• Milk: You can use any type of milk, including dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk.
• Eggs: For a vegan version, you can use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer.
• Vanilla Extract: Feel free to experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon for a different flavor profile.

How to Make this Recipe

Prepare the Griddle: Heat your griddle or skillet over medium-high heat or set an electric griddle to 375°F. Grease with non-stick cooking spray.

Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, stir together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until blended.

Divide the Batter: Evenly separate the batter into 6 smaller bowls.

Add Food Coloring: Add food coloring to each bowl to get your desired colors. Mix well to ensure the color is evenly distributed.

Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the hot griddle. Cook until the edges are bubbly and slightly done. Turn and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the pancakes are fully cooked.

Serve: Stack the pancakes on serving plates and serve warm.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Even Coloring: To get even coloring, make sure to mix the food coloring into the batter thoroughly.

Consistent Size: Use a measuring cup to pour the batter onto the griddle to ensure all pancakes are the same size.

Keep Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.

Serving Suggestions

• Toppings: Serve with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or sprinkles.
• Presentation: For a fun presentation, stack the pancakes in rainbow order and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry.
• Pairings: These pancakes go great with a side of bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast.

Storage Suggestions

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the toaster or oven.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before cooking.

Can I use natural food coloring? Absolutely! Natural food coloring can be used, but the colors may be less vibrant.

What if I don’t have a griddle? A large non-stick skillet works just as well.

Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, simply use a gluten-free pancake mix.

How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking? Make sure your griddle or skillet is well-greased and fully heated before adding the batter.

Rainbow Pancakes are a delightful and easy way to add some color and fun to your breakfast table. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a stack of pancakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to brighten up your morning, these pancakes are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy!