There are mornings when all you want is comfort on a plate. For me, that comfort often comes in the form of pancakes. But not just any pancakes — I’m talking about Orange Marmalade Pancakes, the kind that wake up your taste buds with a perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zing. The first time I made these, it was a rainy Sunday morning. I had a jar of marmalade sitting in the fridge, waiting to be used, and instead of reaching for syrup, I whisked it into my pancake routine. The result? Fluffy stacks with a golden edge and a warm, citrus perfume that turned a gray morning into pure sunshine.
These pancakes are not only beautiful to look at, but they taste like a little vacation in your kitchen. If you’re someone who loves classic pancakes but craves something fresh and exciting, Orange Marmalade Pancakes might just become your new favorite breakfast.
Print
Orange Marmalade Pancakes for Bright Mornings
Fluffy, golden pancakes infused with citrusy orange marmalade for a bright and tangy twist on a breakfast classic. Perfect for cozy mornings or a special brunch, these pancakes balance sweetness and zest in every bite.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 large egg
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
¼ cup orange marmalade (plus more for topping)
2 tbsp melted butter (plus more for cooking)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk egg, buttermilk, marmalade, melted butter, and vanilla until combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
Heat a lightly buttered skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake and cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
Serve warm with extra orange marmalade, butter, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
Don’t overmix the batter or the pancakes will turn dense.
For extra flavor, add a little orange zest into the batter.
Keep pancakes warm in a low oven (90°C / 200°F) until serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Brunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 pancakes
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Why You’ll Love This Orange Marmalade Pancakes
What makes these pancakes special is their ability to hit multiple notes at once. They’re light and fluffy, yet bursting with vibrant citrus flavor. The orange marmalade adds a natural sweetness, a little tang, and a subtle bitterness that keeps the pancakes from feeling too heavy. Pair that with a pat of butter melting on top and a drizzle of warm marmalade glaze, and you have something that tastes elegant but feels cozy.
These pancakes are perfect for weekend brunch, but they’re also simple enough to whip up on a weekday if you want to treat yourself. They’re a wonderful way to transform a humble breakfast into something memorable.
And if quick and simple breakfasts are your thing, these 5-Ingredient Waffles – Fast, Fluffy & Foolproof! are another great option to try.
The Secret to Great Orange Marmalade Pancakes
The real magic lies in how the marmalade is incorporated. Instead of just spreading it on top, mixing a little into the batter infuses every bite with citrus flavor. It’s not overpowering — it’s subtle, balanced, and beautifully aromatic. Another trick? Slightly warming the marmalade before serving. When it’s silky and glossy, it acts almost like a homemade syrup that seeps into the pancakes instead of just sitting on top. That contrast of warm citrus glaze with fluffy pancakes is what makes this recipe shine.
Pro Tips to Nail It Every Time
Don’t overmix the batter. A light hand is the key to keeping your Orange Marmalade Pancakes fluffy instead of dense. Mix just until the flour disappears.
Use good marmalade. Since it’s the star flavor, quality matters. Look for one with a balance of sweet and bitter notes. A homemade or artisan jar will take these pancakes from good to unforgettable.
Warm your plates. Pancakes cool down fast. Serving them on slightly warmed plates makes every bite feel cozier and keeps the stack from losing its magic.
Layer with butter and marmalade. Instead of just topping the stack, spread a thin layer of marmalade between each pancake with a dab of butter. It makes every bite consistent and indulgent.
Fun Variations to Try
Orange Cream Pancakes: Add a dollop of mascarpone or whipped cream between layers for a creamy twist that pairs beautifully with the tangy marmalade.
Citrus Trio Pancakes: Mix in a little lemon or grapefruit zest alongside the orange marmalade for a brighter, more complex citrus flavor.
Nutty Marmalade Pancakes: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pistachios over the top for a crunchy, nutty finish that balances the softness of the pancakes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something about Orange Marmalade Pancakes that feels timeless. They’re simple, yet sophisticated. Comforting, yet a little adventurous. They’re the kind of breakfast that makes you slow down, savor the morning, and maybe even brew a second pot of coffee just so you can linger at the table a little longer. If pancakes are a love language, then these are a heartfelt way to say “good morning” to yourself or someone you care about.
So the next time you’re staring at that jar of marmalade in your fridge, don’t just save it for toast. Whisk it into your pancakes, and let your morning shine a little brighter.
If you love fruity breakfasts, you’ll also enjoy my Pancake Cake with Berries for another bright and cozy treat.
