Why You'll Love It
- - Effortless to make, even on sleepy mornings
- - Fluffy texture that holds syrup beautifully
- - Classic flavor that never feels outdated
- - Warm, comforting aroma that fills the kitchen
*"My family swears by these pancakes—soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet."*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- All‑purpose flour: Choose a fresh, unbleached flour for the best rise and a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent lightens the batter; check the date for full potency.
- Buttermilk: Its gentle acidity reacts with baking powder, giving the pancakes their signature fluff.
- Eggs: Eggs add richness and help bind the batter, creating a delicate crust.
- Vanilla extract: A splash deepens flavor without overpowering the buttery notes.
- Maple syrup: Pure maple adds natural sweetness and a subtle caramel aroma.
Complete Cooking Process
-
Ingredient Readiness:
Measure flour, baking powder, and buttermilk; let the dry ingredients rest while you whisk the wet.
-
Flavor Development:
Allow the batter to sit for a few minutes; the bubbles form and the aroma deepens.
-
Texture Control:
Cook on medium‑low heat, watching for small bubbles before flipping to keep the interior soft.
-
Finishing Touches:
Add a pat of butter to the pan right before the first flip for a glossy finish.
-
Serving Timing:
Stack pancakes immediately; the heat keeps them tender and the syrup stays warm.
- Use a lightly greased skillet for even browning.
- Do not over‑mix; a few lumps are okay.
- Let the batter rest 5‑10 minutes for extra fluff.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven.
Pro Tips
I always find that a short rest lets the gluten relax, giving that pillowy feel we all love. So, after you’ve cooked the first batch, keep the rest of the batter cozy and give it a gentle stir before the next round. It’s a tiny step that makes a big difference, especially when you’re feeding a crowd.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Don’t over‑mix the batter.
- Use room‑temperature buttermilk.
- Cook on medium heat for even rise.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit 5 minutes; it will mimic buttermilk’s acidity.
→ How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking a big batch?
Place them on a baking sheet in an oven set to 200°F (93°C) until ready to serve.
→ What’s the secret to extra fluffiness?
A brief batter rest and gentle folding of the wet into the dry ingredients create air pockets that expand when cooked.
→ Can I add fruit to the batter?
Absolutely—blueberries or sliced bananas can be folded in just before cooking; they add natural sweetness.
→ Is it okay to freeze cooked pancakes?
Yes, stack them with parchment paper and freeze; reheat in a toaster or microwave.
→ How do I make them gluten‑free?
Swap all‑purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend; the texture remains light.
Chef's Tips
If the batter seems too thick, thin with a splash of milk.,For extra golden edges, add a touch more melted butter to the pan.,Avoid over‑mixing to prevent tough pancakes.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
310
Calories
8g
Protein
38g
Carbs
12g
Fat
Taste Profile
A balanced buttery sweetness with a hint of vanilla
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice; let sit 5 minutes.
Use a 1:1 swap; expect a slightly denser texture.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add a pinch of cinnamon and a dash of cayenne for a warm kick.
Mediterranean Style
Stir in crumbled feta and chopped olives; serve with a drizzle of honey.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑mixing batter, leading to tough pancakes.
- Cooking on too high heat, causing burnt edges.
- Skipping the batter rest, resulting in less fluff.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can whisk the dry ingredients together and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. The wet mixture can be refrigerated for a day; combine just before cooking.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a pat of butter; they stay soft and fluffy.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Gather and measure all ingredients; whisk dry components.
Combine wet ingredients; gently fold into dry mixture.
Heat skillet, pour batter, watch for bubbles, flip pancakes.
Finish remaining batter; keep pancakes warm in oven.
Serve stacked, drizzle with butter and maple syrup.
Classic American Pancake Recipe
Fluffy, golden American pancakes perfect for breakfast or brunch, served with butter and maple syrup. I love the way they rise like soft clouds and carry the comforting scent of home. This recipe is simple, warm, and totally reliable for a relaxed weekend morning.
Timing
Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Batter
- 01 1 ½ cups all‑purpose flour
- 02 3 ½ tsp baking powder
- 03 ½ tsp salt
- 04 1 tbsp sugar
- 05 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- 06 1 large egg
- 07 3 tbsp melted butter
- 08 1 tsp vanilla extract
To Serve
- 01 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 02 Maple syrup, warm
Instructions
In a large bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar; set aside.
In another bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla; whisk until smooth.
Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture; gently fold until just combined—lumps are fine.
Let the batter rest 5‑10 minutes while the skillet heats over medium‑low.
Lightly grease the skillet with butter; pour ¼ cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook another 1‑2 minutes until golden.
Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish the batch; serve stacked with melted butter and maple syrup.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If the batter seems too thick, thin with a splash of milk.
- 2 For extra golden edges, add a touch more melted butter to the pan.
- 3 Avoid over‑mixing to prevent tough pancakes.
Tools You'll Need
-
Mixing bowls
-
Whisk
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Non‑stick skillet or griddle
-
Spatula
-
Plate for serving
Must-Know Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
- Let the batter rest, Allows bubbles to form for fluffiness.
- Taste as you go, Adjust seasoning for perfect flavor.
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature ingredients, Ensures even cooking
- Medium‑low heat for a gentle rise, Creates a tender interior
- A quick butter finish, Captures a glossy, buttery crust
Recipe by
Emma Fields“Mornings are my magic hour! I create easy, energizing breakfasts that turn sleepy starts into sunshine moments.” ☀️🥞
Get Delicious Recipes Weekly
Join 25,000+ home cooks getting our best recipes straight to their inbox.
Free forever • No spam • Unsubscribe anytime