Pancakes with cream cheese filling that oozes out when you cut into them. This Sunday high calorie breakfast is a showstopper that earns its calories.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl, ensuring thorough mixing and even distribution.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with whole milk and vanilla extract; melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter and whisk in until combined.
Add wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing for tender pancakes.
Beat the cream cheese with remaining granulated sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth; set aside for filling.
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and brush with 1/2 tbsp butter; portion 1/4 cup batter for each pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes, then spoon about 1.5 tbsp cream cheese filling onto the center; cover with another thin layer of batter and cook for 2 more minutes, flipping gently to finish until golden on both sides.
Repeat for all pancakes, re-butter skillet as needed between batches for even browning and moisture control.
Serve immediately with maple syrup drizzled over the top.