If the way to your loved one’s heart is through the stomach, there’s no better way to start off this Valentine’s Day than with a homemade breakfast prepared with love.
Whether you’re whipping up a breakfast for a spouse with a sophisticated palate or trying to tempt the taste buds of your littlest loves, explore these ideas to get inspired.
* Red is the color of love, so build your menu around fresh strawberries or raspberries, which pair perfectly with French toast or crepes, and can even dress up a simple cereal.
* For a more sensible menu, opt for a fruity berry smoothie or a parfait layered with fresh fruit, low-fat yogurt, and granola. Add a hint of loving indulgence by sprinkling dark chocolate shavings on top.
* Show your affection with a plate of these colorful Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet Pancakes featuring rich 100% cocoa, buttermilk, and fresh berries. Heart-shaped cookie cutters lend a special touch to these fluffy, flavorful pancakes. Add sweet garnishes like powdered sugar and berries for a sensational way to say, “I love you.”
Find more recipes you’ll love to share with your nearest and dearest this Valentine’s Day at Culinary.net.
Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet Pancakes
Recipe courtesy of Nestlé
Servings: 10 pancakes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons Nestlé Toll House Baking Cocoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 cup reduced-fat buttermilk or low-fat milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon red food coloring
heart-shaped pancake cutters or cookie cutters (optional)
butter, for garnish (optional)
powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
maple syrup, for garnish (optional)
fresh berries, for garnish (optional)
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; stir well.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and food coloring. Add to flour mixture; stir to combine. Allow mixture to sit 5 minutes.
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush with oil or butter. Add about 1/4 cup batter to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes or until bubbles start to form on top. Flip and cook 1-2 minutes, or until the bottom is lightly browned. Serve immediately with butter, powdered sugar, syrup, and berries, if desired.
Tip: If using pancake or cookie cutters, be sure to coat with oil so pancakes don’t stick. Place cutters in skillet and pour batter into cutters. Remove cutters before flipping.
(Family Features)