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There’s a certain joy that comes with the holiday season, a delight that fills the air and prompts creativity in our kitchens. As the first hints of winter set in and festive music plays softly in the background, I can’t help but want to whip up something unique for breakfast. Enter my Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes—a visually stunning, delicious way to start the day!

Imagine pillows of fluffy pancake stacked high, each layer whisked with love and thoughtfully decorated with fresh fruits. With a shining mango star crowning the top and vibrant pomegranate seeds scattered like ornaments, this dish is sure to amaze kids and adults alike. Not only are they fun to make, but they also offer a healthier spin on a holiday treat, winning over even the pickiest eaters without compromising flavor. Join me in creating this festive masterpiece that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy brunches at home!

Why are Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes a must-try?

Visually Stunning: Each layer resembles a whimsical Christmas tree, making breakfast a festive event.
Healthy Twist: With lower sugar and fresh fruit toppings, they are a guilt-free holiday treat the whole family will love.
Kid-Friendly: Kids can help decorate, creating lasting memories and excitement around breakfast time.
Versatility: Easily adapt the recipe for various dietary needs or change up flavors to keep things fresh.
Quick Preparation: For busy mornings, these pancakes can be made ahead and reheated, making them both fun and convenient!

Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes Ingredients

For the Pancake Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body to the pancakes; substitute whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to make the pancakes light and fluffy.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.
Sugar – Adds sweetness to the pancake batter; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Milk – Hydrates the dry ingredients and helps achieve the right batter consistency; almond milk or oat milk works for a dairy-free version.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; swap with flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Oil – Adds moisture and richness; melted butter or coconut oil can be used as substitutes.

For the Festive Decoration

Mango – The star atop the pancake tree provides natural sweetness and eye-catching color.
Pomegranate Seeds – Add a pop of flavor and vibrant color for decoration.
Icing Pen (White Icing) – For decorative swirls; whipped cream can also be used but is less stable.
Nonpareil Christmas Sprinkles – Bring a festive touch to the pancake decoration, perfect for holiday cheer!

These Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes are not just delicious, but they’re also a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday season!

How to Make Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes

Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well mixed. This will form the dry base for your pancakes, inviting that perfect fluffy texture.
Mix wet ingredients: Create a well in the center of your dry mix, then pour in the milk, beaten eggs, and oil. Stir until smooth and combined—your batter should be thick yet pourable.
Preheat skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or electric griddle over medium heat. A quick test: sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface; they should bead and sizzle when ready!
Cook pancakes: Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet to form a 4-inch round. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Cut out stars: Once your pancakes are cooked, use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from them, starting with the largest and working your way to the smallest to assemble your Christmas tree.
Assemble tree: Stack the pancakes from largest to smallest, resembling a tree shape. Top your pancake tower with a mango star, and decorate with icing, pomegranate seeds, and sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Serve and enjoy: These delightful pancakes are best served immediately, bringing warmth and joy to your holiday mornings!

Optional: Drizzle with syrup or honey for a sweeter touch if desired.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your griddle or skillet is at the right heat; the water bead test will confirm if it’s ready for cooking.
Star Shape Precision: Press down firmly with cookie cutters to avoid tearing the pancakes while cutting them into star shapes.
Prep Ahead: For a smoother morning, mix your batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before cooking!
Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute ingredients as needed; for a lower sugar option, consider using coconut sugar or maple syrup in the batter.
Fun Decorating: Encourage kids to get involved in decorating the Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes! It’s a wonderful way to create festive memories together.

What to Serve with Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes?

Elevate the festive breakfast experience with delicious pairings that enhance sweetness and flavor!

Maple Syrup: A classic that adds a rich sweetness, perfectly complementing the fluffy pancakes and fresh fruits.
Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy yogurt provides a delightful contrast, adding protein and balance to the sweet stack.
Bacon or Sausage: Crisp and savory, these add a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with sweet pancakes.
Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of velvety hot chocolate enhances the festive atmosphere, appealing to kids and adults alike.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries offer a burst of freshness, enhancing the visual and taste appeal of the meal.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping brings a sweet richness that makes the tree pancakes feel even more indulgent.
Citrus Salad: A mix of orange and grapefruit segments adds a refreshing zing, balancing the sweetness of your delightful pancakes.
Fruit Smoothie: Blend up a vibrant fruit smoothie on the side for added nutrition and a fun way to enjoy your morning flavors!
Gingerbread Cookies: For a festive touch, serve alongside homemade or store-bought gingerbread cookies for that extra holiday cheer.
Sparkling Cider: A fizzy non-alcoholic drink adds a celebratory touch, making breakfast feel even more special during the holidays.

Make Ahead Options

These Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes are absolutely perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and combining them with the wet ingredients just before cooking. Store the batter in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can cook the pancakes ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pancakes in the microwave or toaster, then assemble your festive tree with the mango star and pomegranate decorations. This way, you’ll have a delightful and visually stunning breakfast ready in no time, perfect for busy holiday mornings!

How to Store and Freeze Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes

Room Temperature: These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh but can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours if needed—perfect for serving at holiday brunches.

Fridge: Store leftover Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave to retain their fluffiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pancakes stacked between sheets of parchment paper, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat pancakes from the fridge in the microwave for about 30 seconds or pop them in the toaster for a crispy texture!

Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful pancakes for every festive occasion!

Whole Wheat Swap: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nutty flavor that enhances the pancakes’ texture.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk to keep these pancakes dairy-free without losing any of that fluffiness.
Low-Sugar Option: Switch out regular sugar for coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option, making this treat even more health-conscious.
Fruit Alternatives: Replace pomegranate seeds with fresh berries or even kiwi slices for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Flavor Infusion: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that evokes cozy holiday vibes.
Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter, adding a sweet surprise that both kids and adults will love.
Gluten-Free Treat: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Colorful Icing: Experiment with colored icing to bring even more festive cheer to your pancake masterpiece, making each bite a visual delight.

Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe mango for my pancakes?
Absolutely! Choose a mango that gives slightly when you press it, indicating that it’s ripe and juicy. The skin should have a vibrant color, and avoid any dark spots all over, which can indicate overripeness. A perfectly ripe mango will not only taste delicious but also add delightful sweetness to your pancake tree.

How should I store leftover Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking for a longer storage solution, freeze them! Simply stack the pancakes with sheets of parchment paper in between and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, just reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or pop them in the toaster to regain their fluffiness!

Can I freeze Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze your pancakes, allow them to cool completely first. Line a baking tray with parchment paper, and lay the pancakes flat without overlapping them. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a freezer-safe bag, adding parchment between pancakes to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave for about 30 seconds or toast them for a crispy exterior.

What should I do if my pancake batter is too thick?
If you find your pancake batter is thicker than expected, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of milk in small increments, stirring until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Remember, a thick batter can lead to dry pancakes, so aiming for a liquid-like texture ensures fluffy results. Mixing gently will help keep the pancakes light!

Can I use other fruits or toppings to decorate my pancakes?
Very much! Feel free to swap out pomegranate seeds with other festive berries like blueberries or strawberries, or even use edible decorations like chocolate chips or coconut flakes. For alternative toppings, consider yogurt or alternative flavored icings to create a fun twist! The more, the merrier when it comes to decorating your Stacked Christmas Tree Pancakes!

Are these pancakes safe for kids with allergies?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. If dealing with dairy allergies, almond or oat milk work beautifully in the batter. If you’re looking to make these pancakes vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs, which are made by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water—let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Always double-check ingredients to ensure they meet your family’s dietary needs!