Pancake Recipe
Whipping up the perfect homemade pancake recipe is easier than you think. These fluffy, golden pancakes have a crispy edge and a soft inside, making them a family favorite. Unlike store-bought mixes, this recipe uses pantry staples you probably already have. Whether you’re making them for kids or a weekend brunch, they turn out perfect every time. The batter is simple to customize add chocolate chips for a fun treat or toss in fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist. If you love variety, try banana pancakes or pumpkin pancakes for a seasonal spin. Once you taste these from-scratch pancakes, you’ll never go back to boxed mix they’re just as easy and so much better.
Pancake Recipes You’ll Love
Choose the best toppings : Whether drizzling with syrup, adding fresh fruit, or spreading nut butter, the right toppings enhance the flavor of any pancake, from classic homemade pancakes to nutrient-packed protein pancakes.
Start with the right batter : A good homemade pancake starts with a well-mixed batter. Whether making banana pancakes, protein pancakes, or a fluffy pancake recipe, don’t overmix. A few lumps keep pancakes light and airy.
Use the right heat : Cooking on medium-low heat ensures evenly cooked, golden brown pancakes. Avoid high heat, which burns the outside before the inside cooks through.
Watch for bubbles before flipping : The best time to flip is when bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. This trick works for easy pancake recipes and even a pancake mix recipe.
Ingredients
Vanilla: A soft, sweet touch that enhances the pancake batter with a splash of warm flavor.
Flour: Use all-purpose flour for a classic texture, or try whole wheat, spelt, or gluten-free blends for variety. A 50:50 blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works well. If you’re looking for an alternative, check out gluten-free buckwheat pancakes for a unique twist.
Sugar: Just enough to enhance the sweetness of the batter without going overboard on the taste.
Baking powder: Essential for light, fluffy pancakes. Choose double-acting baking powder for the best results. Ensure it’s fresh (within 3 months) and aluminum-free if you’re sensitive to its flavor. If needed, baking soda can be a substitution with an acidic ingredient.
Milk or non-dairy milk: Both work perfectly. Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk (carton, not canned) for a dairy-free version.
Egg: Adds structure, but for a vegan pancake recipe, swap it with a flax egg.
Butter: Provides rich taste. Use unsalted or salted, but if using salted butter, omit extra salt from the mix.
How to Cook Perfect Pancakes
- Preheat a good quality non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, reduce to low-medium heat and let it sit for two minutes before cooking. This step is crucial for even cooking.
- Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of butter, even if using non-stick pans. Wipe away excess butter with a paper towel to avoid greasy pancakes.
- Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to pour the batter for uniform evenly sized pancakes. Start from the middle and pour in a circular motion to help the batter spread into round shapes.
- Allow pancakes to cook properly do not rush them on high heat. Wait until the underside turns golden brown, and bubbles appear on the top surface of the batter side before flipping.
- To get the perfect flip, use a plastic spatula and slide it underneath the pancake. Flip gently using your wrist rather than your whole arm to avoid lopsided pancakes. This technique makes a huge difference in achieving even cooking.
How to Make the Best Fluffy Pancakes
- Let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking for maximum fluffiness.
- For truly perfect pancakes, aim for a light and airy texture similar to a sponge cake.
- Use the right balance of baking powder and batter consistency to achieve fluffy results.
- Avoid over-mixing the batter, as this can result in dense pancakes.
Don’t Overmix The Batter
For the best and fluffy pancakes, avoid overmixing the batter. A few lumps are essential, as they help create a light and airy texture. Overworking the flour and gluten causes the mixture to over-develop, resulting in denser and chewy pancakes instead of soft and tender ones. Instead of stirring until the batter is totally smooth, gently fold the ingredients until just combined. This tip works for all types of pancakes, from classic buttermilk to healthy pancakes, gluten-free pancakes, and whole wheat pancakes. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or searching for the best gluten-free pancakes near me, keeping the batter slightly lumpy ensures a perfect stack every time.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Pancakes
Use a thin, flexible spatula – A thin spatula slides under the pancake smoothly, preventing breakage and helping you flip with ease. A sturdy, flexible spatula makes a big difference in achieving perfect pancakes.
Preheat your skillet or griddle properly – Starting with a hot pan ensures even cooking and that golden brown color. A properly heated skillet also creates crispy edges while keeping the inside fluffy.
Cook on low to medium-low heat – High heat can burn the pancakes before they cook through. Keep the heat steady and adjust between batches to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
Wait for bubbles before flipping – One of the biggest mistakes is flipping too soon. Watch for bubbles forming on the surface and make sure the bottom is golden before turning them over.
How to Serve Pancakes
For indulgence, drizzle with chocolate ganache or caramel sauce to create a dessert-like treat.
A classic butter and maple syrup combo never fails for a rich, comforting taste.
Fresh toppings like berries, sliced peaches, and pitted cherries add a juicy, refreshing twist.
Creamy options like whipped cream, honey butter, or lemon curd enhance the texture and flavor.
Sweet spreads such as strawberry jam or a dusting of powdered sugar bring a simple yet delicious touch.
How to Store and Freeze Pancakes
Properly storing pancakes keeps them fresh and delicious for later. Allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Storing them warm can cause condensation, making them soggy and ruining their crisp crust. In the fridge, they stay good for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze pancakes in a single layer before stacking them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, use a microwave for 15 to 30 seconds, a toaster to restore crispness, or an air fryer at 300°F for 3-5 minutes.
Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour for a healthier option
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups milk or buttermilk for extra fluffiness
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, sweetener, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Create a well in the center and add milk, melted butter, vanilla, and a beaten egg. Use a wire whisk to blend the wet ingredients before slowly incorporating the dry mixture.
- Stir until the batter is mostly smooth, with a few lumps for fluffiness. If it’s too thick, gradually add extra milk until you reach the desired consistency. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes.
- Preheat a nonstick pan or griddle over low-medium heat. Lightly grease with butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the pan, using a ladle or measuring cup. Spread gently into a round shape using the back of the ladle. Cook until the underside turns golden and bubbles form on the surface.
- Use a spatula to carefully flip the pancake. Cook until both sides are golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Enjoy warm with honey, maple syrup, fruit, ice cream, or frozen yogurt, or savor them plain.
FAQs
How do I make my pancakes fluffy?
Use fresh baking powder, avoid overmixing the batter, and let it rest for a few minutes before cooking.
How can I make pancakes healthier?
Use whole wheat flour, swap sugar for honey, and add protein by using Greek yogurt or protein powder.
What’s the best way to cook pancakes evenly?
Use a preheated nonstick pan or griddle over low-medium heat, and make sure the batter spreads evenly.
How do I store leftover pancakes?
Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
What toppings go best with pancakes?
Classic choices include maple syrup, honey, fresh fruit, whipped cream, and nut butter.
