Tired of the same boring breakfast routine every morning? Imagine starting your day with a towering stack of fluffy strawberry shortcake pancakes that taste like dessert but feel totally acceptable for breakfast. This strawberry shortcake pancake stack is the morning game-changer you’ve been craving!
Hi, I’m Ethan Miller, the heart behind FoodyDish! When my kids were going through their “pancakes or nothing” phase, I started experimenting with ways to make breakfast exciting again. This strawberry shortcake pancake stack was the clear winner combining the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the comfort of classic pancakes.
In this recipe, I’ll share my secret techniques for creating the fluffiest pancakes, the perfect strawberry compote, and a whipped cream topping that holds its shape beautifully. Get ready to discover everything from ingredient tips to serving suggestions that will make this stack your new family favorite!
Why This Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack Works
- Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have
- Prep components ahead for a quick morning assembly
- Impressive enough for special occasions but easy enough for weekends
- Customizable for dietary needs (gluten-free options included)
- Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
The Perfect Berries for Your Stack
Fresh strawberries are ideal, but don’t overlook frozen berries in the off-season. Look for bright red berries with minimal white shoulders for the sweetest flavor. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain excess liquid before making your compote.
Pancake Base Selection
While all-purpose flour creates a classic pancake, cake flour makes your strawberry shortcake pancake stack extra tender. For a healthier twist, white whole wheat flour offers nutrition without heaviness.
Cream Components
Heavy whipping cream with at least 36% fat content whips best and holds its structure longer – crucial for your strawberry shortcake pancake stack to look picture-perfect. If you’re dairy-free, full-fat coconut cream (refrigerated overnight) makes an excellent substitute.
Ingredients & Prep for Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
Pancake Base Essentials
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1¾ cups milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Compote Components
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Layer
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep for Strawberry Shortcake Stack
- Prepare the strawberry compote first: Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes until berries break down and mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, whisk together dry pancake ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until combined.
Cooking Method for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Pancakes
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir just until combined (lumps are good!).
- Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter.
- Pour ¼ cup batter for each pancake, creating uniform sizes.
- Cook until bubbles form on surface (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook 1-2 minutes more.
- Transfer to a warming plate while cooking remaining batter.
Whipped Cream Preparation for Strawberry Shortcake Stack
- In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Transfer to a piping bag with a star tip for a professional presentation.
Assembly of Your Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
- Place one pancake on a serving plate.
- Spread a thin layer of strawberry compote.
- Pipe a ring of whipped cream around the edge.
- Add another pancake and repeat layers until you’ve used all components.
- Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries.
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
Avoiding Flat Pancakes in Your Strawberry Shortcake Stack
- Don’t overmix the batter a few lumps ensure fluffy texture
- Let batter rest 5-10 minutes before cooking to activate leavening agents
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh (test by adding a pinch to hot water; it should bubble vigorously)
Tool Recommendations
- Use a ¼-cup measuring cup for consistent pancake sizes
- A wide, thin spatula makes flipping easier
- Electric mixer for perfect whipped cream every time
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Pancakes can be made 1 day ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container
- Strawberry compote keeps for up to 5 days refrigerated
- Assemble just before serving for best presentation
Looking for more breakfast inspiration? Find my complete collection of morning treats on Pinterest from quick weekday options to leisurely weekend brunches!
Flavor Variations for Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
Chocolate Lover’s Version
Add mini chocolate chips to your pancake batter and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist on your strawberry shortcake pancake stack.
Citrus Brightness
Fold lemon or orange zest into both your pancake batter and whipped cream for a refreshing citrus note that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Triple Berry Delight
Enhance your strawberry shortcake pancake stack by adding blueberries and raspberries to your compote for complex flavor and gorgeous color.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Prep Changes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate | Chocolate chips, cocoa powder | Add 2 Tbsp cocoa to batter | Special occasions |
| Citrus | Lemon/orange zest | Add 1 Tbsp zest to batter | Spring brunches |
| Triple Berry | Mixed berries | Use equal parts of three berries | Summer mornings |
| Coconut | Coconut milk, toasted coconut | Replace dairy with coconut products | Tropical theme |
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
For a complete breakfast experience, serve your strawberry shortcake pancake stack with:
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice or a strawberry smoothie
- Crispy bacon for a sweet-savory contrast
- Additional fresh berries on the side
- A light dusting of powdered sugar for presentation
For special occasions, create a pancake bar with multiple toppings so everyone can customize their own strawberry shortcake pancake stack.

FAQs About Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack
Can I make this strawberry shortcake pancake stack gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Add ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it for better texture.
How do I prevent my whipped cream from deflating?
Stabilize your whipped cream by adding 1 tablespoon of instant vanilla pudding powder with the powdered sugar before whipping. Your strawberry shortcake pancake stack will hold its shape much longer.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes! Peaches, blueberries, or mixed berries work beautifully in this strawberry shortcake pancake stack concept. Adjust sugar to taste based on the natural sweetness of your fruit.
My pancakes aren’t cooking evenly. What am I doing wrong?
Ensure your pan or griddle is evenly heated before beginning. Also, your strawberry shortcake pancake stack will look more professional if you wait to flip until you see bubbles across the entire surface of each pancake.
Conclusion
This strawberry shortcake pancake stack transforms an ordinary morning into something extraordinary. By combining the comforting warmth of pancakes with the sweet nostalgia of strawberry shortcake, you’ve got a breakfast that feels like a celebration any day of the week.
Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creation before digging in your friends won’t believe this restaurant-quality stack came from your kitchen! Over 3,000 home cooks have made this recipe a regular in their breakfast rotation, and I can’t wait for you to join them
Print
How Strawberry Shortcake Pancake Stack Wins Breakfast
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy golden pancakes layered with sweet whipped cream and juicy strawberries a breakfast-meets-dessert delight inspired by classic strawberry shortcake.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tbsp melted butter or oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
Maple syrup or strawberry sauce (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined — do not overmix.
4. Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form on top; flip and cook until golden brown.
6. To assemble, layer pancakes with whipped cream and strawberries between each layer.
7. Top with extra whipped cream, strawberries, and a drizzle of syrup or strawberry sauce.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
You can use store-bought pancakes for convenience.
Add a hint of lemon zest to the batter for brightness.
For extra indulgence, drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle crushed shortbread cookies on top.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake stack
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: strawberry shortcake pancakes, pancake stack, brunch recipe, whipped cream pancakes
