News flash, you guys: your pancakes could be cuter and cooler. I can help you make it happen, because as it happens, I have pancake prowess.
Perhaps you saw my amazing post on Craftsy about how to make extra-tall, puffy pancakes. If not, you should take a few minutes and go over there to check it out. Don't worry, I'll wait.
OK, now that you're back, let me tell you how to parlay this pancake tutorial into adorably shaped morning cakes.
Basically, what you're going to do is prepare the batter the same way as in the tall pancake tutorial (with less liquid than normal pancakes).
Then, you're going to spray a skillet with non-stick spray, or grease it with butter.
And then you'll very generously grease the inside of cookie cutters.
And then you'll pour the batter right inside of the cookie cutters. Since it's fairly thick it will stay put. Fill them about 3/4 full. Maybe a little more.
Cook for oh, 5 to 6 minutes on each side. If a tiny bit of batter seeps out, don't worry. I had minor seepage but it ultimately turned out fine.
Remove from heat, and hang on for a sec because the cookie cutters will be HOT.
Use a knife to remove. Enjoy your awesomely shaped pancakes!
How to make star and heart-shaped pancakes
You'll need: heart and star shaped cookie cutters. Or other cookie cutters. But keep in mind that the more complex the shape, the harder the pancakes are to remove later.
Amount may vary based on your recipe - printable version here
Step 1: start with your favorite pancake recipe (or use the recipe in this post).
If you're using a different recipe, instead of reducing the liquid by a certain amount, what I suggest is that you measure out about half of the liquid required in the recipe, and then add it little by little. You just want to add enough so that the batter comes together thickly.
Step 2: heat up a skillet on medium-high heat. Spray with non-stick spray or put a pat of butter on it.
Step 3: Generously (GENEROUSLY) grease the inside of your cookie cutters. Place them on the hot surface.
Step 4: Spoon the batter into the cookie cutters. Immediately reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Let them bake for about 5 minutes, then flip (still in the cookie cutter). If not browned let them cook a little longer.
Step 6: Remove the entire cookie cutter unit from Heat. Let cool for a minute or two, then use a knife to loosen the pancake out. Since you greased the insides of the cutters VERY GENEROUSLY they should come out without too much resistance.
Step 7: repeat with any remaining batter. Enjoy!