Tiny Traditions: Holiday Pancake Art Legacy

Of all the legacies I thought I would leave, my pancake-making ability was not one of them!

pancake art

You see, we have this tradition that just sort of evolved, and now it is one of our most treasured tiny traditions as a family. I fondly remember when I was younger and my dad would get up and make us pancakes. He would always let us choose what shape we wanted, which led us to try to challenge him with requests of dinosaurs and our favorite Disney characters. I remember the showmanship he would use in flipping the pancakes almost to the ceiling.

But what I remember the most is the laughter and love. I didn’t necessarily know when my dad would have the time to make us these pancakes. It wasn’t a set day of the week or on holidays, but the surprise of this breakfast was part of the fun.

Fast forward to when my son was old enough to request pancakes for breakfast. I remember standing at the griddle with my husband and we both started creating some pancake art. To the delight of our son, we created some pretty basic pancake shapes that morning. His squeals and laughter had me hooked. If making this simple breakfast food into silly shapes could make him this happy, I was determined that I would become the best pancake artist I could be. I started adding food coloring, and sprinkles, and chocolate chips, and whip cream to my elaborate creations.

pancake art

I was so happy to make my son sooooo happy. And that’s when I realized that this was turning into more of a dessert than a “balanced breakfast.” I decided to save these works-of-art for special occasions. I began making holiday-themed pancake breakfasts. On special occasions, I set my alarm, wake up early, and get started. My kiddos race to the kitchen to see what crazy idea I’ve come up with. Watching them giggle while clearing their plates, I can’t help but think about my dad’s pancakes and hope that my children will continue with this “tiny tradition.”

Pancake Art Tips:

Check out Pinterest and Instagram to get inspirational photos. Search things like “pancake art” and “holiday pancakes.” I’ve shared several pictures of my holiday pancakes so now my friends and family tag me and send me ideas.

pancake art
Make a large amount of pancake batter. The batter needs to be a little runny and no lumps. Separate into smaller container {the plastic kid’s drink cups work great} and mix food coloring into the batter. You will need to add lots of food coloring in order for the pancakes to appear that color after cooking.

For intricate design patterns, I put the batter into cheap ketchup and mustard bottles that you buy at the dollar store. They have tiny nozzles that help with creating art.

Think outside the box when adding pancake details. Whip cream makes great clouds, and snow, and Santa beards. Chocolate chips and blueberries are always a favorite for eyeballs. My kids love it when I incorporate marshmallows. I like to add the Lucky Charms marshmallows for St. Patrick’s Day.

Pick up cheap holiday napkins, cups, straws, and treats at the dollar store. You can come up with a pretty exciting table setting for under a few bucks. We have also used their new special holiday shirt or themed hair tie to help create an exciting display.

pancake art
Don’t worry if the pancakes aren’t perfect. My kids do not care. All I hope for is that they remember the laughter and love that when into these pancake breakfasts.

How do you incorporate tiny traditions into your children’s memories? Did they originate from when you were younger or are they new traditions?

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Courtney lives in Grand Blanc. She's married to Matt, and they have two very smart, energetic, and involved kids, Walker and Tenley. Courtney is a working mom who spends her days teaching High School Biology and English. She thrives on being busy, but also struggles with finding a good balance. She loves working with people, but definitely is inspired when she is interacting with young people. In her free time....just kidding she doesn't have free time, but she does love to go to concerts and catch up with friends and family. Favorite things include Michigan football, college basketball, scented candles, any beach, campfires, traveling and spontaneous dance parties.