These pancakes are light, airy, and guaranteed to make your mornings brighter! Simple ingredients and easy instructions make this recipe a breakfast staple.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
Instructions:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract (if using).
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk until just combined. It’s okay if there are still a few small lumps; overmixing can make the pancakes tough.
- Heat the Griddle or Pan: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. A good test is to flick a few drops of water onto the surface; if they sizzle, it’s ready.
- Pour the Batter: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
- Cook the Pancakes: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles form on the surface and start to pop. Flip when the edges are set and the bubbles start popping.
- Keep Warm (Optional): If you’re making a large batch, you can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (200°F or 90°C) on a wire rack while you finish cooking the rest.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate chips.
Tips for Extra Fluffy Pancakes:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined.
- Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slight tang and makes the pancakes extra tender and fluffy.
- Let the Batter Rest: Letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking allows the baking powder to activate, resulting in lighter pancakes.
- Hot Griddle: Make sure your griddle or pan is hot enough before adding the batter.
- Don’t Press Down: Avoid pressing down on the pancakes while they’re cooking, as this can flatten them.
Enjoy your delicious, fluffy homemade pancakes!