Today I’m going to show you the easiest and most traditional method for creating a classic, easy fluffy pancake recipe from scratch. This recipe reminds me of the ones my grandma used to make, and the best part is it only requires a few basic ingredients. Perfect for a hearty breakfast, a Mother’s Day surprise, or a fun Pancake Day celebration.
So, let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need For This Easy Fluffy Pancake Recipe:
First, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to make this classic pancake recipe.
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup (236.6mL) whole milk, room temperature
- 1 medium-sized egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- Cooking oil or clarified butter for frying
Here is How To Make This Easy Fluffy Pancake Recipe from Scratch:
Now, let’s prepare our pancake batter:
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine your flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give these dry ingredients a good mix until they’re well blended.
Step 2: Next, add your milk, the beaten egg, and cooking oil to the dry mixture. Stir everything together until the wet ingredients are incorporated with the dry ones. Don’t worry if a few small lumps are left in the batter – that’s perfectly fine!
Step 3: Let your pancake batter rest for about 10 to 30 minutes. While your batter is resting, go ahead and heat up your non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat.
How To Cook Pancakes?
Now, let’s cook our pancakes:
Step 4: Lightly butter your non-stick heated pan, then scoop a quarter cup of your pancake batter into the pan.
Step 5: Cook your pancake for about 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles start to break the surface. Then, flip your pancake over and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown color.
If you really want to master the art of pancake flipping, then check out my latest post here: When To Flip A Pancake? – Flipping Pancakes 101 With Pictures!
Step 6: Repeat this process with the rest of your batter until you’ve made a fluffy stack of golden pancakes.
Top Tip: To keep your pancakes warm, place them on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish and put them in a preheated 200°F (90°C) oven until ready to serve. This simple trick ensures warm, delicious pancakes.
10 Popular Pancake Toppings
- Maple Syrup: A classic choice, maple syrup brings a sweet and slightly smoky flavor to your pancakes.
- Fresh Berries or Bananas: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or bananas – these bring a tart, sweet burst to your pancakes.
- Whipped Cream or Substitutes: It adds a light, creamy sweetness that’s absolutely delightful.
- Nutella: This chocolate-hazelnut spread is a favorite for those who like a sweet, rich topping.
- Lemon and Sugar: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of sugar provides a refreshing twist.
- Peanut Butter: It’s a fun and protein-packed pancake topping, perfect for peanut butter lovers out there.
- Greek Yogurt and Honey: For a healthier option, try topping with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
- Cinnamon and Sugar: A dusting of cinnamon and sugar gives pancakes a delightful warmth and sweetness.
- Bacon: A bit of cooked, crispy, crumbled bacon provides a sweet and savory contrast.
- Fruit Compote: Whether it’s made from mixed berries, apples, or peaches, a homemade fruit compote brings a flavorful, juicy element to your pancakes.
How to Store Pancake Batter For Later
Storing pancake batter for later use is quite simple. Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: If you’ve already mixed your batter and want to use it within 1-2 days, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, or transfer the batter to an airtight container or a jar with a lid and place it in the refrigerator. This keeps the batter fresh and prevents it from drying out. However, the baking powder may lose some of its leavening power, resulting in less fluffy pancakes.
- Freezing: If you want to store the batter for a longer period, you can freeze it. Pour the pancake batter into a zip-top freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible, seal it, and store it flat in the freezer. Make sure to label the bag with the date. The frozen batter can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, give it a gentle stir before cooking your pancakes.
Remember, the texture of the pancakes might change slightly when using stored batter due to the potential loss of leavening power from the baking powder.
How to Store Leftover Pancakes?
Storing leftover pancakes is a great way to save time and effort for future meals. Here’s how to do it:
Refrigeration:
- Allow your pancakes to cool completely. Placing hot pancakes directly into the refrigerator can cause condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Once cool, stack them with a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking.
- Place the stack of pancakes in a zip-top bag or an airtight container.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
- Cool the pancakes completely.
- Like with refrigeration, stack the pancakes with a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each one.
- Transfer the stack into a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. If you’re using a bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing it.
- Label the bag or container with the date. The pancakes can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, you can use the microwave, toaster, or oven. If you’re using a microwave, start with 20 seconds for a single pancake and increase the time as needed. If using a toaster or oven, you might want to thaw them first to ensure they heat evenly.
Remember, for best quality, consume refrigerated pancakes within 5 days and frozen ones within 2 months.
How to Reheat Pancakes from the Fridge?
Reheating leftover pancakes is easy, and there are several ways you can do it:
Microwave:
- Place 1-4 pancakes on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover the pancakes lightly with a paper towel to avoid them drying out.
- Microwave them on high for about 20 seconds per pancake. If you’re heating more than one, you might need to adjust the time.
Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent the pancakes from drying out.
- Heat the pancakes for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re warmed through.
Toaster or Toaster Oven:
- Pop your pancakes directly into the toaster or toaster oven just like you would a slice of bread.
- Toast them on a medium-low setting. You might need to toast them more than once to get them fully heated, but be careful not to burn them.
Stovetop (especially useful for frozen pancakes):
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the pancakes in a single layer and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Heat for about a minute on each side or until they’re warmed through.
Remember, all microwaves, ovens, and stovetops heat differently, so you might need to adjust these times based on your specific appliances. Always check to make sure your pancakes are heated through before eating.
Dietary Alternatives And Ingredient Substitutions:
Pancakes are a versatile dish that can be modified to cater to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few of my simple ingredient substitutions:
Read Also: 17 Best Egg Substitutes For Delicious And Nutritious Pancakes!
- Make it Vegan: These pancakes are free from animal products but still maintain the fluffy texture and delicious taste of traditional pancakes. The eggs can be replaced with flax or chia seeds, or my favorite, aquafaba, and the dairy milk with a plant-based alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk. You could also use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
- Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re gluten-intolerant or prefer a gluten-free diet, you can make pancakes with gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, coconut flour, or oat flour. There are also numerous pre-made gluten-free pancake mixes available on the market. Here Are 6 Substitutes For Flour In Pancakes That Won’t Affect The Taste And Texture.
- Protein Pancakes: Perfect for those who need a protein boost in the morning, protein pancakes usually incorporate protein powder into the batter. Alternatively, you can use Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or high-protein flour like almond flour or chickpea flour. Some people also add a scoop of almond butter or tahini for extra protein and flavor.
Check Out Also: Best Fluffy Almond Flour Pancakes (Recipe And Video).
Easy Fluffy Pancake Recipe from Scratch
8
servings15
minutes20
minutes159
kcal35
minutesGet ready to whip up the easiest, most foolproof pancake recipe out there. This recipe takes you back to grandma’s kitchen with its classic, easy fluffy pancakes made from mere basic ingredients. Ideal for breakfast, Mother’s Day, or Pancake Day, it delivers flawless pancake pleasure every time. So let’s jump right in and revive this timeless classic!
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Ingredients
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup (236mL) whole milk
1 medium-sized egg, beaten
2 tbsp cooking oil
Cooking oil or clarified butter for frying
Directions
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, beaten egg, and cooking oil.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Small lumps are fine.
- Let the batter rest for 10-30 minutes.
- Preheat a frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat, and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour a quarter cup of batter into the hot pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface.
- Flip the pancake, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Repeat with the remaining batter until all pancakes are cooked.
- To keep pancakes warm, place them on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish in a preheated 200°F (90°C) oven until serving time.
- Enjoy your warm, homemade easy fluffy pancakes!
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Baking powder and baking soda lose their potency over time. For light, fluffy pancakes, make sure these ingredients are fresh.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can develop the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough pancakes. Stir until the wet and dry ingredients are just incorporated, leaving some small lumps.
- Rest the Batter: After mixing, let your batter rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the gluten that may have developed during mixing to relax and also lets the baking powder begin to react.
- Preheat the Pan: Before pouring your batter, make sure your pan or griddle is hot enough. It’s ready when droplets of water sizzle and evaporate quickly when sprinkled on the surface.
- Test Pancake: It’s a good idea to make a small test pancake with your first scoop of batter. This helps ensure that your pan is at the right temperature and gives you a chance to adjust your batter if needed.
- Control the Heat: Your pan needs to maintain a steady, medium heat. If it’s too hot, the pancakes will brown on the outside too quickly before the inside is cooked. If it’s too low, the pancakes won’t be able to rise and achieve a golden color. Adjust the heat as necessary.
- Proper Portioning: Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup or an ice cream scoop for consistent pancake sizes and easier flipping.
- Wait for Bubbles: Don’t rush to flip your pancakes. Wait until bubbles form and burst on the surface, and the edges look set.
- Flip Once: Ideally, you should only flip your pancakes once to achieve a nice, even color and texture. Repeated flipping can lead to deflation.
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Making Pancakes FAQs
Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
Often, the cause is over-mixing the batter, which overdevelops the gluten, making the pancakes tough. Also, ensure that your baking powder is still active to aid in leavening.
Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to use it within 24 hours. Baking powder can lose its effectiveness over time, which may result in less fluffy pancakes.
How can I make my pancakes more flavorful?
Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or mix-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips. You could also use flavored dairy or non-dairy milk.
What’s the difference between crepes and pancakes?
The main difference lies in the batter and thickness – crepe batter is thinner and yields a thinner, more delicate result, while pancake batter is thicker and makes a fluffier, more cake-like final product.
How much batter should I use for each pancake?
It depends on the size you want your pancakes to be. Typically, 1/4 to 1/3 cup of batter is used for each pancake.
How long can you keep pancake batter in the fridge?
You can keep pancake batter in the refrigerator for up to two days. After this point, the leavening agents (like baking powder) begin to lose their efficacy, and your pancakes may not be as fluffy as they should be. Remember to keep the batter in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
How long can pancake batter sit out?
Pancake batter should not sit out for more than two hours at room temperature due to potential bacterial growth. If you need to leave it longer, refrigerate it.
What temperature to cook pancakes on an electric stove?
On an electric stove, it’s best to cook pancakes at medium heat, which typically corresponds to a setting between 4 and 6 on your stove’s dial. The exact temperature can vary depending on your specific stove, but aim for around 375°F (190°C) if your stove shows temperature. Always preheat the pan for a few minutes before adding the batter, and adjust the temperature as needed if the pancakes are cooking too quickly or slowly.
Read Also: How To Cook Pancakes On Induction Cooktop? (Few Key Things To Consider)!
In Conclusion
And there you have it – the easiest, most foolproof guide to crafting perfect, easy fluffy pancakes from scratch. No more mystery mixes, no more disappointing breakfasts. With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you’re now ready to bring the magic of pancake breakfasts to your very own kitchen.
Remember, the beauty of this classic pancake recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. From creating fun breakfast moments with your kids to serving a comforting breakfast-in-bed treat for someone special, these pancakes are your canvas. Dress them up with a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of fresh berries, or even some chocolate chips for a twist.
So, go ahead, don that apron, and flip your way to pancake glory. Here’s to many mornings of delicious, easy fluffy pancake recipe – made by you and enjoyed by all.
Until next time, happy cooking!