If you are craving a delightful, comforting breakfast that feels like a special treat, then the Air Fryer Pancakes with Strawberries, Ice Cream, and Maple Syrup Recipe is just what you need. These pancakes come out perfectly fluffy and golden, thanks to the magic of the air fryer, while the fresh strawberries, creamy ice cream, and luscious maple syrup add layers of flavor and indulgence. This recipe transforms a simple pancake breakfast into a celebration of textures and tastes that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven containers with baking ingredients on a white marbled surface. At the top right, there is a white bowl filled with white flour. To the left of it, a clear glass bowl holds white baking soda. Below the bowls, a large clear glass measuring cup is filled with a pale liquid, likely milk. To the right of the cup, a small clear glass bowl contains white granulated sugar. Below these, there is a silver spoon with a small amount of white salt on it. At the bottom right, a clear glass bowl is filled with a light brown liquid, and to the left of it, a small white bowl holds a darker brown liquid, possibly vanilla extract. The setting is clean and bright with a top-down view. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for these irresistible pancakes. Each component plays an essential role, from the lightness of the baking powder to the subtle tang from apple cider vinegar, giving the pancakes their tender crumb and rich flavors.

2 cups plain flour: Provides the base structure for fluffy pancakes.
3 tablespoons caster sugar: Adds subtle sweetness without overpowering.
1.5 tablespoons baking powder: The secret to a light, airy pancake texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavors and balances the sweetness.
2.5 cups soy milk: Adds moisture and creates dairy-free buttermilk when combined with vinegar.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Reacts with baking powder to give lift and a slight tang.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses rich aroma and warmth into the batter.
Vegetable oil or butter: For greasing the cake tin and achieving a golden crust.
Ice cream: The luscious cooling contrast that complements warm pancakes.
Fresh strawberries: Adds juicy brightness and a burst of natural sweetness.
Maple syrup: Classic topping that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Make Air Fryer Pancakes with Strawberries, Ice Cream, and Maple Syrup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture

Start by combining the soy milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Give it a gentle stir and then let it sit for about five minutes. This resting time allows the milk to curdle slightly, mimicking buttermilk’s tangy depth, which is crucial for tender pancakes.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While the wet mixture rests, sift together the plain flour, caster sugar, baking powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl. Sifting helps remove any lumps and aerates the dry ingredients, which will contribute to a lighter batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the prepared buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients. Whisk gently but thoroughly until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Resist the urge to overmix, as that can make pancakes tough. Once combined, let the batter rest for 30 minutes to develop even better texture and allow air bubbles to form.

Step 4: Prepare Your Air Fryer and Pan

Grease an 8-inch round cake tin with vegetable oil or butter. This is what you’ll use to shape and bake your pancakes in the air fryer. A well-greased pan ensures your pancakes release easily and develop a nice golden crust.

Step 5: Air Fry the Pancakes

Pour about a quarter of your batter into the cake tin—this amount yields a large, satisfying pancake. Set your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and cook for 8 minutes, or until the pancake is golden on top and cooked through the center. Carefully remove the pancake from the tin, grease it again, and repeat until you’ve used all the batter.

Step 6: Assemble and Enjoy

Once your warm pancakes are ready, it’s time to bring them to life with toppings. Serve each pancake with a scoop of creamy ice cream, a handful of fresh sliced strawberries, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. This combination balances warm and cold, sweet and tangy, and soft and creamy textures that make every bite memorable.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pancakes with Strawberries, Ice Cream, and Maple Syrup Recipe

A stack of four thick, light golden pancakes sits on a white plate. The pancakes have a soft, fluffy texture with small air bubbles on the surface, and the edges are slightly crispy with a deeper golden brown color. On top, there is a dollop of white whipped cream, surrounded by five bright red strawberry slices arranged evenly around it. Additional strawberry slices lie scattered on the plate around the pancake stack. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a soft white cloth in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshness plays a key role in elevating this dish. Besides strawberries, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few fresh mint leaves, or even some crushed nuts for crunch. The contrast between the warm pancake and cold ice cream garnished with vibrant strawberries is pure breakfast magic.

Side Dishes

While the pancakes are quite complete on their own, you can serve them alongside crispy bacon or sausage for savory balance, or a fresh fruit salad for an extra hit of natural sweetness. Soft scrambled eggs also pair beautifully, making the meal perfect for brunch or a leisurely weekend breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your pancakes tall, layering between each with dollops of ice cream and strawberry slices, then drizzle maple syrup over the stack until it cascades down the sides. Alternatively, create a pancake platter topped with mixed berries and a side of flavored whipped cream. Presentation can be playful and personalized to make your breakfast table inviting and instagrammable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To avoid sogginess, separate layers with parchment paper. Leftover pancakes can be a quick weekday breakfast or snack ready in minutes.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked pancakes by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 2 months this way, making it easy to pull out a stack whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your pancakes in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3-4 minutes until warm and crisp on the edges. Alternatively, a toaster or microwave can suffice, but the air fryer brings back the delightful texture better than any other method.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of soy milk?

Absolutely! Regular cow’s milk works just as well, especially when combined with apple cider vinegar to create the buttermilk effect needed for fluffy pancakes.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can still make this pancake recipe on a stovetop griddle or frying pan. Cook over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?

Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or banana slices all pair wonderfully with these pancakes and ice cream. Feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as written, this recipe is vegan-friendly since it uses soy milk and apple cider vinegar instead of dairy milk and traditional buttermilk.

How do I make sure the pancake is cooked through?

Check by lightly pressing the pancake’s surface to ensure it springs back. Also, inserting a toothpick in the center should come out clean. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the simplicity and warmth of the Air Fryer Pancakes with Strawberries, Ice Cream, and Maple Syrup Recipe. This recipe brings together ease, indulgence, and vibrant flavors that turn any morning into a little celebration. If you love pancakes but want an effortless way to get them just right, this is a beautiful dish to try. Ready your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the smiles this breakfast brings!