Peach Melba Pancake Sundae

Name: Peach Melba Pancake Sundae
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ripe peaches, sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Vanilla ice cream; Raspberry sauce

Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection

I absolutely love making this Peach Melba Pancake Sundae, as it brings together the sweetness of peaches and the indulgence of pancakes in a delightful dessert experience. The fluffy pancakes serve as a perfect base for the vibrant peach topping, which I warm just enough to release those aromatic flavors. Topped with creamy vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce, it's a delightful treat that’s perfect for weekend brunch or a special occasion. Trust me, this combination of flavors and textures is pure bliss!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:03:36.149Z

When I first created this Peach Melba Pancake Sundae, I wanted to celebrate the flavors of summer with something special. The combination of juicy peaches and crisp pancakes topped with sweet raspberry sauce was an experiment that has quickly become a favorite. A tip I’ve learned is to let the pancake batter rest for a few minutes before cooking, which makes them fluffier and lighter.

As I prepared this dish, I realized how versatile it can be. You can easily swap out peaches for other fruits, or even try different ice cream flavors! The key is to balance the sweetness with the tanginess, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Enjoying this sundae with friends or family makes it all the more delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously fresh peaches that enhance the pancakes perfectly
A delightful blend of flavors topped with ice cream
Perfect for a weekend brunch or a sweet dessert treat

      

Mastering the Pancake Technique

When crafting the perfect pancake, the mixing technique is crucial. Overmixing the batter can lead to tough pancakes, so aim for a few lumps in the mixture. The key is to combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated. This approach ensures that the pancakes remain light and fluffy with a tender crumb. Also, remember to let the batter rest for about 10 minutes; this allows the gluten to relax and results in a better texture.

The heat of your skillet is another important factor. Preheat it over medium heat and make sure it's hot enough before pouring the batter. You can test the readiness by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface; they should dance and evaporate quickly. If you find your pancakes are browning too fast, lower the heat slightly to ensure even cooking and avoid burnt edges.

Peach Success: Tips for the Topping

Choosing ripe peaches is essential for achieving the best flavor in your topping. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. If peaches are out of season, you can substitute with canned peaches in juice or syrup; just make sure to drain and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in your mixture. During cooking, be careful not to overcook the peaches—they should become tender and warm, yet still retain some of their texture.

Adding lemon juice to your peach mixture not only enhances the flavor but also helps balance the sweetness of the sugar. This acidity brightens the entire dish, making it more refreshing. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg while cooking the peaches for an added layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra touch of elegance, consider serving your Peach Melba Pancake Sundae with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or granola on top. This adds not only flavor but also a satisfying crunch that complements the soft pancakes and creamy ice cream. Additionally, a fresh mint leaf can brighten up the presentation and provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

If you're hoping to make this dish a bit lighter, you can use a dairy-free ice cream or Greek yogurt instead of vanilla ice cream. This will change the flavor profile slightly, but it will still be delicious. You might also try swapping the raspberry sauce for a fruit compote or chocolate sauce, depending on your preference or seasonal availability. The flexibility of this recipe allows for delightful experimentation based on your tastes!

Ingredients

For the Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peach Topping

2 ripe peaches, sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Assembly

Vanilla ice cream
Raspberry sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Repeat with remaining batter.

Prepare the Peach Topping

In a small saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the peaches are warm and the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes.

Assemble the Sundae

Stack pancakes on a plate, spoon the warm peach topping over them, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle with raspberry sauce. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the sundae for added texture. You can also use frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t available, just thaw them before using.

Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role that contributes to the overall taste and texture of the pancakes. For instance, the baking powder is crucial for creating lift and ensuring your pancakes are light and fluffy. The sugar adds sweetness, but it also aids in creating a golden-brown exterior when cooked. Remember that the type of flour you choose can also lead to different textures; all-purpose flour works well, but you can substitute with whole wheat for a heartier pancake.

The vanilla extract might seem like a small addition, but it enhances the flavor profile significantly, bringing warmth to the dish. Likewise, the melted butter not only adds richness but also helps to create a tender, non-stick surface on the pancakes. A common beginner mistake is to forget the butter or oil for cooking, which can result in sticking and uneven cooking—so don’t skip this step!

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're prepping for a special occasion or brunch, consider making the pancakes ahead of time. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop them in a toaster or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This way, you can quickly assemble your sundae when the time comes without having to start from scratch.

The peach topping can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before assembly. Be mindful that the peaches may lose some of their firmness after refrigeration, but they will still retain their sweetness and flavor. This is a great way to streamline the process and ensure you're not rushed during your brunch preparation.

Scaling and Adjusting Portions

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down, making it versatile for any number of servings. If you're hosting a large gathering, double the pancake and peach topping ingredients. Just remember to allow for a bit more cooking time on the griddle when making multiple pancakes at once—keep an eye on each pancake and adjust the heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning.

Alternatively, if you're cooking for one or two, you can halve the ingredients quite easily. The batter can still be stored in the fridge, as it’s often best used fresh but can hold for up to a day. For smaller quantities of the peach topping, consider using just half a peach and adjusting the sugar and lemon juice accordingly—this ensures you don’t waste ingredients and still enjoy a delicious sundae!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pancakes and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them on a skillet before serving.

→ What if I don't have peaches?

You can substitute peaches with any other fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or even bananas. The flavor will vary, but it will still be delicious!

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and you can enjoy this dessert gluten-free.

→ How can I make raspberry sauce from scratch?

To make raspberry sauce, simmer fresh or frozen raspberries with a bit of sugar and water until it thickens slightly. Blend for a smoother texture if desired.