Reindeer Pancakes for a Fun Christmas Morning Breakfast

This Reindeer Pancakes recipe creates a playful Christmas breakfast using fluffy pancakes, banana slices, chocolate chips, strawberries, and crispy bacon or pretzels for antlers. It’s a fun Christmas morning breakfast that works for kids and adults alike. Each reindeer face is simple to assemble, great for a crowd, and easy to prep in advance. These reindeer breakfast pancakes bring color, texture, and joy to any Christmas brunch or Xmas food table.

The structure comes from the 1½ cups of flour balanced with just enough liquid, 1¼ cups of milk and one egg, to create a batter that holds its shape on the pan. The tablespoon of baking powder ensures the pancakes puff up instead of spreading too thin. That thickness helps the pancake hold toppings without collapsing. I’ve tested this ratio repeatedly, and it gives consistent results every time.

Too much liquid thins the batter and flattens the pancakes. Too little, and they seize. Stick to the recipe’s ratio, and you’ll get tall, fluffy stacks that support those banana eyes and antlers without sinking.

A Closer Look at the Eyes and Nose

The banana slices do more than look cute. They offer softness and balance out the salty antlers. I prefer using bananas that are just turning ripe. Too ripe, and they get slippery. Too green, and they don’t stick well.

Mini chocolate chips stay in place better than larger ones. If you’re using round chocolate-covered candies, press them gently into the banana surface. Strawberries for the nose bring brightness and color. I sometimes halve them to help them sit flatter. Whole berries work too, as long as they’re not oversized.

For a slightly different variation, you can use blueberries as pupils. I’ve done that when I run out of chocolate chips.

You’ll see similar toppings used in these Christmas Pancakes if you’re looking for more ideas.

Ingredient Breakdown

All-purpose flour gives the base structure. I never use cake flour here. It doesn’t hold the same shape.

Sugar adds mild sweetness. Three tablespoons give enough without turning the pancakes into dessert.

Baking powder lifts the batter. One tablespoon might sound like a lot, but that’s what gives the pancakes height.

Milk brings moisture. I use whole milk. You can swap it for plant-based milk, but the richness will vary.

The egg binds and gives color. I’ve used flax eggs in the past for a dairy-free friend. It works, but the texture becomes softer.

Butter brings flavor. Neutral oil works, but I prefer butter. Vanilla adds a familiar note and finishes the batter with warmth.

You’ll find similar decorative ideas in these Snowman pancakes if you’re planning a full spread.

Cooking and Assembly Timing

Each pancake cooks for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Medium heat is key. Too high, and they brown before the inside sets.

You’ll want one large pancake per face. Some mornings I make a smaller one for the forehead and stack it on top. That’s optional, but it adds depth.

Once they’re off the heat, build each reindeer face quickly. Add bananas and chocolate chips while the pancakes are still warm. The warmth helps them stick better.

Add the strawberry last, gently pressing it into place. Then carefully insert the pretzel or bacon antlers near the top edge. They should slide in without breaking.

These ideas also work well in themed treats like Reindeer Cupcakes, if you’re planning a full table.

Knowing When They’re Cooked

You’ll see bubbles forming across the surface before it’s time to flip. The edges will look matte instead of wet. That’s your signal.

The underside should be golden and easy to slide a spatula under. Once flipped, give them another minute or two. Press the top lightly. It should spring back.

Underdone pancakes feel doughy in the center and collapse when pressed. Overdone ones become dry and chewy. Your nose helps too. If you smell browning, they’re likely ready.

Troubleshooting Pancake Problems

If the batter feels too thick to pour, add a splash more milk. Cold ingredients can cause that.

If pancakes spread out too much, you might have overmixed or added too much liquid.

If the antlers won’t stay in place, wait until the pancakes cool slightly. Heat makes them unstable.

If your banana slices slide off, press them in gently while the pancake is warm.

How to Store and Reheat

Leftover pancakes store well in an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for 1 day, in the fridge for 3 days, and freeze up to 2 months.

To freeze, layer between sheets of parchment and seal tightly. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 300°F. The antlers are better added fresh.

Ways to Serve This on Christmas Morning or Boxing Day

Place reindeer pancakes on red plates with a side of scrambled eggs. Add whipped cream snow on the plate.

Serve with hot cocoa or spiced cider. Make a pancake bar with toppings and let kids build their own.

Pair with fruit skewers or mini cinnamon rolls.

Save and Share This Fun Christmas Breakfast

Add this Reindeer Pancakes recipe to your Christmas Breakfast board so you don’t lose it.

If you try a variation or have questions, drop a comment below. I’d love to hear what you added or changed!