Classic Pancake Recipe
Perfectly fluffy and golden, classic pancakes are a breakfast favorite that are easy to make and delicious to eat. Whether you’re serving them for a family breakfast, a special brunch, or just a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl or a large measuring cup, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in dense pancakes.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. You can test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water on the pan; if they sizzle and evaporate, the pan is ready.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Use the back of the spoon or ladle to spread the batter into a round shape. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook until the other side is golden brown, about 1-2 minutes more.
- Serve:
- Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Lumps are fine. Overmixing can make the pancakes tough.
- Adjust Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a little more milk. If too thin, add a bit more flour.
- Keep Pancakes Warm: If making multiple pancakes, keep them warm in a low oven (200°F/90°C) on a baking sheet until ready to serve.
- Customize Your Pancakes: Add-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or nuts can be mixed into the batter just before cooking.
- For Fluffier Pancakes: Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes before cooking. This helps the baking powder work its magic.
Conclusion
This classic pancake recipe provides the foundation for a delicious breakfast that can be customized to suit your taste. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create fluffy, golden pancakes that are sure to become a family favorite.