Pancakes are a beloved breakfast staple, but when you combine them with fresh strawberries and a luscious cream filling, they become a decadent indulgence fit for any morning occasion. This recipe for cream-filled strawberry pancakes elevates the traditional pancake experience to new heights, blending fluffy pancakes with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries and the rich creaminess of a homemade filling.

Ingredients:

For the Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk 
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, sliced

For the Cream Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cream Filling:
  - Smoothly beat softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until creamy.
  - Incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until thoroughly combined.
  - Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
  - Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture gently until fully incorporated. Cover and refrigerate until needed.

2. Make the Pancakes:
   - Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl, whisking until well mixed.
   - In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and blended.
   - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined; some lumps are acceptable.
   - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greasing with butter or cooking spray.
   - For each pancake, add approximately 1/4 cup of batter to the saucepan. Allow them to cook until bubbles start to form on the surface, then flip and continue cooking until both sides are golden brown.
   - Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter, keeping cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) until all pancakes are prepared.

3. Assemble the Cream-Filled Strawberry Pancakes:
   - Take one pancake and spread a generous amount of the prepared cream filling over the surface.
   - Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cream filling.
   - Place another pancake on top to create a sandwich, gently pressing down to spread the filling.
   - Continue with the remaining pancakes, alternating layers of cream filling and strawberries.
   - Serve immediately, garnished with extra strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.