Picture this: you wake up with your beloved on Valentine’s Day morning. As the sun casts its first golden rays, the air fills with the aroma of brewing coffee and toasting bread – starting the day filled with love and a special breakfast. Sizzling eggs and the sweet scent of maple syrup is in the air, as the space transforms into a lavish expression of affection with soft kisses and sweet-everythings whispered in ears.
With each bite, shared smiles and soft, sleepy conversations unfold, creating many new memories that will linger far beyond the morning for the rest of the day.
Easy Valentine’s Day breakfast recipes like these are an affectionate way to start the day with a touch of romance – the best part is that they’re incredibly easy to make, too!
1. Heart-Shaped Pancakes Recipe
Imagine indulging in Heart-Shaped Pancakes, a dish that’s as delightful to the senses as charming to the eye – definitely, so aesthetically pleasing for that IG pic! These whimsical pancakes are a great way to start this day with more than just a visual treat through a slightly crisp outside and a soft, cloud-like inside.
This is one of those cute Valentine’s day breakfast ideas that you won’t get enough of!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Red food coloring (for that Valentine’s theme)
Alternative Ingredients
- Flour – Whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour blend
- Milk – Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk
- Egg – Flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water)
- Butter – Coconut oil, vegan butter, strawberry butter
- Whipped Cream/Greek Yogurt – Coconut whipped cream, dairy-free yogurt
- Berries and Fruits – Mango, peach, pear, pineapple, kiwi
- Chocolate Chips/Shavings – Vegan chocolate chips, carob chips
- Nutella/Chocolate Syrup – Dairy-free chocolate spread, vegan chocolate syrup
- Sweeteners – Agave syrup, stevia
- Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds
- Jam or Fruit Compote – Various flavors of jam, homemade fruit compote
- Spices – Cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin spice
How to Make Heart-Shaped Pancakes
Step 1: For the dry ingredients, take a large bowl and add flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt to it.
Step 2: For the wet ingredients, use a different medium bowl and first beat an egg using a whisk or a fork, before you add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients from step 1, then stir until it’s well combined but don’t overmix it (a few lumps are fine) – use a food processor or hand mixer to make this easier.
Step 4: Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or a cooking spray. Then use a heart-shaped cookie cutter or mold and pour some of the pancake batter into the mold using a griddle – if you want to play with different colors or even write on it, use a piping bag.
Step 5: Cook the pancake until some bubbles form on the surface of the pancake, then flip and cook it until it’s golden brown on the other side.
Lastly, serve those heart-shaped pancakes warm with some maple syrup or chocolate sauce, fresh red berries, or whipped cream.
Expert Tips
- If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out, while if it’s too runny, add a bit more flour.
- Like those extra fluffy pancakes? Let the batter sit for a few minutes before pouring it on the pan.
- Making a large batch for the entire family? Keep your pancakes warm in an oven that’s set to a low temperature.
- Store any leftover pancakes in the fridge in an airtight container.
- Pair these sweet pancakes with something salty like bologna or cheese – the perfect sweet-salty mix!
- Create strawberry pancakes by adding small pieces of it into the batter!
2. Pancake Tacos Recipe
If you’re a fan of tacos, then this will be the best of both worlds!
Imagine this: You’ve filled your pancake taco with fresh fruits and a scoop of whipped cream or yogurt, making you experience a burst of freshness and creaminess. The whipped cream adds a velvety smoothness, or if you’ve opted for yogurt, a tangy creaminess that feels like someone is hugging your tastebuds.
This is one of those fun breakfast ideas that you can get really creative with! A Great excuse to just stay in bed all day enjoying the food and one another.
Ingredients
For the pancake batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar (white or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: Red food coloring (for that Valentine’s theme)
For the Taco Fillings:
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Sliced bananas
- Chocolate chips or small chocolate shavings
- Nutella or chocolate syrup
- Honey or maple syrup
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Eggs benedict
Alternative Ingredients
- Flour – Whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour blend, oat flour
- Milk – Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, coconut milk
- Eggs – Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg), chia eggs, or commercial egg replacers
- Butter – Coconut oil, vegan butter, or vegetable oil
- Whipped Cream/Greek Yogurt – Coconut whipped cream, dairy-free yogurt, or vegan whipped topping
- Fruits – Any seasonal fruits like mango, peach, or pear; for a tropical twist, consider pineapple or kiwi
- Chocolate Chips – Vegan chocolate chips, carob chips, or cacao nibs
- Nutella/Chocolate Syrup – Dairy-free chocolate spread, vegan chocolate syrup
- Sweeteners – Agave syrup, stevia, or honey (if not strictly vegan)
- Toppings – Granola, chopped nuts, seeds like chia or pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, fruit compotes or jams
How to Make Pancake Tacos with Fruits
Step 1: First, prepare the pancake batter by taking a large bowl and add the dry ingredients to it, including flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
Step 2: To mix the wet ingredients together, use another large bowl and beat the egg before adding the milk and melted butter to it. If you want to get that romantic red color for Valentine’s Day, add some red food coloring to it.
Step 3: Combine the wet and dry ingredients as you’re slowly stirring the wet ingredients into the dry ones – stir it until it’s well mixed, just don’t overmix it.
Step 4: Heat up a skillet over medium heat, grease it slightly, and once the pan is hot, pour a small amount of batter to form a pancake about 4-5 inches in diameter.
Step 5: Cook your pancakes until you see bubbles forming on the surface, then flip them and cook until it’s golden brown – make sure to not make the pancakes too thin, otherwise they won’t be able to hold the fillings!
Step 6: Prepare your fresh berries and bananas by cutting them into small pieces, then whip the cream with a little sugar and vanilla (or use Greek Yogurt).
Step 7: Fold each pancake in half like a taco shell and fill it with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek Yogurt before adding some fresh fruit, chocolate chips, and any other fillings you want.
Lastly, drizzle a bit of honey, maple syrup, or chocolate syrup on top or dust it with powdered sugar – enjoy!
Expert Tips
- To create a nice Valentine’s Day presentation, arrange the taco pancakes on a platter surrounding the fillings in the center, this way you have “fajita style” pancakes.
- Keep your pancakes warm by putting them in the oven on low heat.
- Get creative with your fillings! There are some cute hearts or red sprinkles, too!
3. Strawberry French Toast with Mascarpone Recipe
Picture this: A perfect breakfast where each slice of bread, soaked in a sweet, eggy bath and lightly crisped to golden perfection, speaks of comfort and care, much like a lover’s warm hug in the crisp cold air. Sweet strawberries, sliced and placed on top of the deliciously fried French Toast, where each berry is kissed by a touch of sugar mixed in with the smooth and rich Mascarpone.
Showcasing a little love in the morning can go a long way with such an easy recipe and a cup of coffee!
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 8 slices of bread (Brioche or Challah work well)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter for frying
For the Mascarpone Topping:
- 1 cup Mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- Optional: a splash of orange liqueur or balsamic vinegar
Alternative Ingredients
- Bread – Gluten-free bread, brioche, challah, cinnamon-raisin bread
- Eggs – Chickpea flour + non-dairy milk + black salt mixture (for vegan option)
- Milk – Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, strawberry milk
- Mascarpone – Cream cheese, ricotta, dairy-free cream cheese alternative
- Sugar – Coconut sugar, agave nectar, maple syrup
- Strawberries – Blueberries, raspberries, mixed berries, bananas, cooked apple slices
- Vanilla Extract – Almond extract, orange zest
- Toppings – Honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
How to Make Strawberry French Toast with Mascarpone
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar (and orange liqueur or balsamic vinegar if you’re feeling fancy).
Step 2: Set aside for about 15 minutes to let the strawberries, so they have enough time to release their juices.
Step 3: Take a separate bowl and combine the Mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then mix it until it’s all smooth and creamy. Set aside in the fridge until you’re ready to use it – to make it easier, use a handheld mixer or a food processor, if you have them.
Step 4: Use a shallow dish and whisk together eggs before adding the milk, sugar, and vanilla extract – whisk it to mix it.
Step 5: Preheat your medium pan over medium heat and melt a little butter, then dip each slice of bread into your egg mixture so both sides are well-coated, then fry the soaked bread slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side – you know they’re ready when they’re golden brown.
Lastly, once your cooked French toast is ready, place it on a plate and enjoy a generous amount of Mascarpone toppings on each side before topping it off with strawberries – make it extra special by adding some powdered sugar or some maple syrup drizzle on top.
4. Red Velvet Waffles Recipe
In a world where mornings are often rushed, a Valentine’s morning cherished with Red Velvet Waffles brings a much-needed pause. Imagine lifting the lid of the waffle iron to reveal waffles colored like love itself, a deep, passionate red – setting the sweetness of the day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- Cooking spray for the waffle iron
Potential Toppings:
- Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream
- Fresh berries (like strawberries or raspberries)
- Optional: Powdered sugar
Alternative Ingredients
- Flour – Whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour blend, oat flour
- Eggs – Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg), commercial egg replacer
- Butter – Coconut oil, vegan butter
- Milk – Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, other plant-based milk
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Vegan cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla extract
- Whipped Cream – Coconut whipped cream, other dairy-free whipped toppings
- Toppings – Sliced bananas, kiwi, mango, nuts, chocolate shavings, maple syrup, honey
How to Make Red Velvet Pancakes
Step 1: Use a large bowl and add flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2: Use a different bowl and beat eggs, then add the buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
Step 3: Pour the wet ingredient bowl into the dry ingredients as you’re stirring, continue stirring until everything is combined – mix it well, but don’t overmix, a few lumps are ok!
Step 4: Preheat your waffle iron and spray it with cooking spray, then pour enough batter into the iron to just cover the waffle grid. Close and cook the waffle according to the manufacturer’s instructions – you know they’re done when they’re deep red and crisp.
Lastly, serve the waffles hot with a large scoop of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream and some fresh berries on top – if you’re wanting something extra fancy, add some powdered sugar on top of the waffles, too!
Expert Tips
- Don’t overfill the waffle iron otherwise the batter will spread when you’re going to try to close it.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice instead of buttermilk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes.
- To keep the waffles warm, put them into a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) as you’re making the entire batch.
5. Breakfast Bruschetta Board
The best part about breakfast is having options, which is exactly what this Breakfast Bruschetta board is all about. Toasted, warm pieces of bread spread out on a wooden board offer a variety of savory treats, such as smoked salmon, velvety cream cheese, and berries, to start the day with love and enjoyment. The crunchy contrast of bread blends seamlessly with the freshness of fruits and vegetables, giving you a full experience at a low cost – perfect for the whole family!
Ingredients
Bread Base:
- Baguette – sliced, toasted
- Ciabatta – sliced, toasted
- Whole Grain Bread – sliced, toasted
- Cinnamon rolls – sliced, toasted
Proteins:
- Smoked Salmon – Thinly sliced
- Prosciutto – Thinly sliced
- Bacon – Cooked and crumbled or cut into small pieces
- Scrambled Eggs – Lightly seasoned
- Avocado toast
Cheese and Spreads:
- Cream Cheese – Plain or flavored
- Ricotta Cheese – Fresh
- Hummus – Classic or flavored varieties
- Avocado Spread – Mashed avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper
Vegetables and Fruits:
- Cherry Tomatoes – Halved or quartered
- Cucumbers – Thinly sliced
- Avocado Slices**
- Mixed Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
- Apple Slices – Thinly sliced
Garnishes and Extras:
- Fresh Herbs – Basil, parsley, dill, or chives
- Olives – Variety of green and black olives
- Capers – Especially great with smoked salmon
- Nuts – Almonds, walnuts, or pecans
- Honey or Maple Syrup – For drizzling
- Balsamic Glaze – For a sweet and tangy finish
- Vanilla donuts
Seasonings:
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning
- Olive Oil – For drizzling
- Balsamic Vinegar – For a tangy touch
How to Make a Breakfast Bruschetta Board
Step 1: Once everything is cut, arrange the toasted baguette slices on a large board.
Step 2: Arrange the toppings around the bread in a variety of small and medium-sized dishes.
That’s it! Enjoy your breakfast bruschetta with your favorite combinations!
Expert Tips
- Use a variety of different breads like crusty baguette, soft ciabatta, or flavorful sourdough.
- Include a mix of sweet and savory options. The combination of creamy (like cheese), crunchy (like nuts or crisp bread), and juicy (like fresh fruits or tomatoes) elements creates a pleasing variety.
- To make it extra aesthetic, arrange it based on colors and textures.
- Use stencils or cookie cutters to cut out fruit or bread slices into hearts.