Break Out the Heart Shaped Cookie Cutter

Today is February 14th which only means that I will, without question, overuse my beloved 'heart-shaped' cookie cutter.  You can bet it will be used for breakfast, lunch, and the all important snack-time.  The only meal not heart-shaped, dinner.  And only because I'm pretty sure sushi restaurants don't do that.  Hmm, or do they?  (stay tuned)

First things first.  Pancakes.  Cute, heart-shaped, and pink.  Perfect for the three valentines in my life (also for me.)  

XOXO.

Valentine Pancakes

** note you can prepare these pancakes by using your favourite store bought mix or, feel free to make them from scratch.  

Ingredients:
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
red food colouring

maple syrup for serving


Method:
In large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla.  Add to dry ingredients until just moistened.  
Divide batter into two bowls.  Add red food colouring to one of the batters and mix to incorporate.
Spoon batter in 1/4 cup portions onto lightly oiled griddle or pan.  Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until bubbles form on top and underside is golden.  Flip and cook for 30-1 minute longer.  Repeat with remaining batter.
Using a heart shaped cookie cutter, cut out the centre of each pancake.  Swap white and pink hearts and place on opposite coloured pancake.
Serve warm with syrup.

Yields 8 pancakes