Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a stack of warm, golden pancakes fresh off the griddle. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning, a special breakfast for the family, or just a craving for something sweet and satisfying, homemade pancakes never disappoint.

For me, pancakes are more than just breakfast—they’re a cherished tradition. Growing up, weekend mornings meant the scent of vanilla and melted butter filling the kitchen while my family gathered around, eagerly waiting for the first batch. There was always something magical about watching the batter transform into fluffy, golden rounds, ready to be drizzled with syrup and topped with fresh fruit.

If you’ve ever relied on boxed pancake mix, you’re in for a treat! Making pancakes from scratch is incredibly simple, and the difference in flavor and texture is worth every extra minute. These homemade pancakes are light, fluffy, and perfectly golden, with just the right balance of sweetness. Whether you keep it classic with butter and syrup or get creative with toppings, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – You can whip up a batch of these pancakes in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
• Fluffy & Delicious – These pancakes are soft and airy with a slight crispness around the edges.
• Customizable – Add chocolate chips, berries, or spices to make them your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for a cozy breakfast at home or a special brunch with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

Making pancakes from scratch is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to get light, fluffy pancakes every time.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring that your pancakes rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a touch of warmth and enhances the flavor of the pancakes.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to dense, tough pancakes instead of soft and fluffy ones.

Step 4: Heat the Griddle

Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or a little oil to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when you flick a few drops of water onto the surface, and they sizzle.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Using a ¼-cup measuring cup, pour batter onto the griddle to form pancakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on the surface. Once the edges look set and the bubbles pop, carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the pancakes to a plate and serve warm with your favorite toppings. Classic butter and syrup are always a hit, but you can also try fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of honey.

Helpful Tips for the Best Pancakes

• Don’t Overmix the Batter – A few lumps are okay! Overmixing leads to dense pancakes.
• Let the Batter Rest – Letting the batter sit for 5-10 minutes allows the baking powder to activate, resulting in extra fluffy pancakes.
• Check Your Heat – Too high, and your pancakes will burn outside while staying raw inside; too low, and they’ll be pale and dense. Medium heat is best.
• Use Fresh Baking Powder – Old or expired baking powder won’t give you the lift you need for fluffy pancakes.
• Customize Your Pancakes – Fold in chocolate chips, blueberries, or cinnamon for a fun twist!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 8 pancakes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• If your batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
• To keep pancakes warm while cooking the rest, place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven.
• Leftover pancakes? Store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick breakfast later.

Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)

• Calories: ~150
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Sugar: 3g

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make pancake batter fresh, but you can prepare it up to an hour in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before using.

Why are my pancakes not fluffy?

Make sure you’re not overmixing the batter, and check that your baking powder is fresh. Also, avoid pressing down on the pancakes while they cook, as this deflates them.

Can I make these pancakes dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

How do I make gluten-free pancakes?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Some brands work better than others, so experiment to find the best one for your taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or warm them in the microwave.

Related Recipes

If you loved this homemade pancake recipe, try these other delicious breakfast favorites:

• Easy Homemade Crepes
• 3-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
• Easy Homemade Pancakes
• Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a homemade pancake breakfast to start the day on a warm, cozy note. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees deliciously fluffy pancakes every time. So grab your favorite toppings and enjoy a stack of homemade goodness!

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