Red Velvet Pancakes

Red velvet cake is a classic Southern treat. These red velvet pancakes channel the brilliant red hue and the light chocolate flavor of the cake. A cream cheese glaze goes well as it typically finishes the cake or drizzle pure maple syrup to control the sweetness. They're the perfect indulgence for a special Christmas breakfast or brunch.

Yield: 4 servings (3 pancakes each)

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 8 ounces buttermilk
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons red liquid food coloring, adjust to desired redness
  
• Extra butter or nonstick cooking spray
  

Sweet Cream Cheese Glaze

• 16 ounces cream cheese
• ½ tsp lemon juice
• 2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/ 2 cup ricotta
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 Tbsp Kahlua

In a bowl whip cream cheese (soft) and ricotta until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and mix smooth. Add a scoop between each pancake and on top of the Red Velvet Pancakes! Sprinkle with powdered sugar and enjoy!

Preparation:

1. Preheat a griddle to medium-high heat if using an electric griddle set at slightly under 325 degrees. In a bowl, use a whisk to combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon and salt. Set aside.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the milk, buttermilk, vanilla extract, white vinegar and food coloring, whisking to combine completely. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in butter. Do not over mix.

3. Brush a little butter or spray nonstick cooking spray on the hot griddle, wipe up any excess with a paper towel and spoon batter into the desired sized pancakes. Cook until bubbles form in the batter, the edges are dry and the underside is lightly brown, about 5 minutes, then flip over and cook the other side 1 to 2 minutes more. Repeat as needed until all of the batter is used.