How to Make Pancakes from Scratch: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious
Pancakes are a breakfast classic loved by many for their fluffy texture and delightful taste. Making pancakes from scratch is not only simple but also allows you to customize them to your liking. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family breakfast or a weekend brunch with friends, these pancakes are sure to impress!
With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes that are perfect for drizzling with syrup, topping with fresh fruit, or even indulging with whipped cream.
Visual Appeal
Fluffy pancakes served in a neat stack, topped with a pat of butter melting down the sides and a drizzle of maple syrup create an inviting breakfast plate that is hard to resist.
Perfect Pairing
Pair these pancakes with crispy bacon, fresh fruit, or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced meal that satisfies all taste buds.
Occasions to Serve
Ideal for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or even a special morning treat, pancakes are versatile enough to brighten any occasion.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4 (about 8 pancakes)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 200 calories per pancake (without toppings)
Nutrition Information
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients List
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Heat the Griddle: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the griddle and keep warm. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Don't Overmix: A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
- Adjust Cooking Temperature: If pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to ensure they cook through.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal fluffiness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add chocolate chips, blueberries, or cinnamon to the batter for added flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Pancakes are too dense: This may be caused by overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined.
- Pancakes stick to the griddle: Ensure your skillet is properly preheated and greased. Non-stick pans work best.
- Pancakes are too dry: Check that you’re measuring the flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry pancakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking. - Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
Absolutely! Let them cool, then stack them with parchment paper in between and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. - What can I use instead of milk?
You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk substitute. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you want to keep the flavor balanced. - How do I know when my pancakes are done cooking?
Pancakes are done when they are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. You can also check that they are cooked through by cutting one in half.
Conclusion
Making pancakes from scratch is a rewarding and delicious experience. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a stack of fluffy pancakes that are sure to delight anyone who tries them. So gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a delightful breakfast that will make every morning feel special!