Name: Fluffy Pancakes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp cinnamon (optional); 1 ¼ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 large egg; 2 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s nothing like a stack of fluffy pancakes to make your morning special. This recipe produces pancakes that are perfectly thick, tender, and melt in your mouth with every bite. The secret to their fluffiness lies in the baking powder, and the right balance of wet to dry ingredients. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you can have a breakfast everyone will love without a lot of effort. Whether you’re making them for yourself or serving them to a crowd, these pancakes are sure to please.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ¼ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 large egg
2 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spoon or whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges begin to look set.
Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people (about 8 pancakes).

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Vegan Pancakes: To make these pancakes vegan, simply use a plant-based milk (like almond milk) and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water). Use non-dairy butter or oil.
Blueberry Pancakes: Add ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Stir in ¼ to ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet, indulgent breakfast.
Banana Pancakes: Mash one ripe banana and fold it into the batter for a banana-flavored pancake.

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftover pancakes, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a toaster, microwave, or on a skillet over low heat. For longer storage, pancakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake before freezing to prevent them from sticking together.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pancake batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before using, as it may thicken as it sits.

Why are my pancakes flat?

Flat pancakes can result from overmixing the batter or using old baking powder. Be sure to mix the ingredients just enough to combine, and check the freshness of your baking powder.

How can I make my pancakes fluffier?

To make your pancakes fluffier, avoid overmixing the batter and let it rest for about 5 minutes before cooking. This allows the baking powder to activate and makes the pancakes lighter.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the pancakes may be denser. For lighter pancakes, you can use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour.

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these pancakes gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure the blend has xanthan gum or another binding agent to help hold the pancakes together.

How do I prevent pancakes from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated and lightly greased with butter or oil. A non-stick pan also helps prevent sticking.

Can I use pancake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?

Yes, you can use pancake mix for a quicker option. Just follow the instructions on the package and add a little vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Fluffy Pancakes are a breakfast classic that everyone will love. With their light, airy texture and rich flavor, they’re perfect for any morning—whether it’s a special weekend brunch or a simple weekday treat. The recipe is easy to follow, quick to prepare, and adaptable to suit any flavor preference. Top them with fresh fruit, syrup, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for the perfect breakfast experience. Enjoy these fluffy pancakes, and make your mornings a little sweeter!