Per the usual birthday tradition, my family celebrates with heavily frosted cupcakes adorned with sprinkles and large, flaming candles. While cupcakes are a delicious and timeless tradition, in the days leading up to my mom’s birthday we found ourselves slightly underwhelmed at the idea of ringing in another festive day with a cupcake. 

So, I began searching for a recipe that was new to us, but still kept some of the traditional aspects of a cupcake. When I found the recipe for Cake Batter Pancakes on the site, Divas Can Cook, I was hesitant to try it at first, but was pleasantly surprised! Monique Kilgore, author of the said site, teaches viewers a wide array of Southern dishes and treats on her blog and Youtube channel. I enjoy her funny, laid back, realistic, and creative videos and recipes. I have tried numerous of her recipes and have not been disappointed!

Cake Batter Pancakes are a super-easy, budget-friendly, satisfying recipe sure to delight anyone who attempts (or eats!) it. Although the pancake recipe is pretty basic, the uniqueness comes from the flavor of cake mix added. You can add any cake flavor that your heart desires, and expect it to turn out well. We have personally made this recipe using Red Velvet, Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, and Funfetti cake mix. However, I do think that the Vanilla cake mix offers the best flavor – sweet, but not too sweet – just enough to get the taste of birthday cake. The pancakes consistently turn out light, fluffy, and pleasant to the eye. I like to “fancy” the pancakes up with a sweet glaze (also included in the recipe) and sprinkles.  Add candles on top, and your birthday celebrant is sure to feel special! This recipe is not only perfect for birthdays, but other festive occasions as well. You can choose a white cake mix and add different food coloring to match the holiday or occasion. If you feel it’s necessary, you can still add traditional pancake toppings, such as chocolate chips or blueberries, as well. 

Not only is this a great way to celebrate someone, it is also a great way to get your family together in the kitchen. With simple directions and ingredients, people of all ages can attempt and succeed at making this recipe.  It’s a fun and simple way to pull everyone away from electronics, especially in times like these, and spend some quality time together. Not only will you be present in the moment, but you get a delicious meal out of it! 

I challenge you to attempt Cake Batter Pancakes by Divas Can Cook the next time there’s a birthday (or any reason) to celebrate in your household. What mix will you try? How will you make your recipe unique?

Find Monique’s recipe here.