If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to fluffy, golden pancakes that have a homemade charm and unrivaled taste, you are in the right spot. This Pancakes From Scratch Recipe captures everything that makes breakfast special — a tender crumb, a subtly sweet vanilla touch, and a lightness that melts in your mouth. Best of all, it’s incredibly straightforward, using simple pantry staples, which means you can whip up a delightful stack anytime your heart desires. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a comforting morning treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential to crafting pancakes that are perfectly fluffy and flavorful. Each one plays its own unique part in the symphony of taste, texture, and color that makes these pancakes so memorable.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness every good pancake needs.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the batter without overpowering.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the pancakes taste richer.
- 3 teaspoons baking powder: The magical leavening agent that helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to a tender texture.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Moistens the batter and helps dissolve the dry ingredients for that smooth consistency.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and prevents sticking, while infusing buttery goodness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a warm, inviting aroma and subtle depth of flavor that elevates the pancakes.
How to Make Pancakes From Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Griddle or Skillet
Start by heating your cooking surface to medium-high heat — this is key for getting a golden exterior without burning. I usually set my electronic griddle just below 350ºF, but keep in mind that griddles can vary. Don’t forget a light grease to keep those pancakes from sticking while you cook to perfection.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures your leavening is evenly distributed, which is critical so every pancake puffs up beautifully without any bitter spots from clumped baking powder.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
Grab a separate bowl and thoroughly whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Blending these ingredients well will help you get a smooth, luscious batter without clumps on the wet side.
Step 4: Gently Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Pour the flour mixture into the wet mixture and stir carefully just until everything is combined. It’s okay if there are some lumps — over-mixing can make your pancakes dense and chewy, so keep it light and easy.
Step 5: Cook Your Pancakes
Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the batter onto your preheated griddle and loosely spread each mound into a circle if needed. Leave space to add more as you continue filling the surface. You should be able to fit a couple batches comfortably.
Step 6: Flip at the Perfect Moment
Cook the pancakes for about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side, but watch closely for tiny air bubbles popping in the center — that’s your signal! Flip them gently and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Then, plate immediately for best results.
How to Serve Pancakes From Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of pancakes is how versatile they are when it comes to toppings. Classic butter and maple syrup are unbeatable for comfort, but fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dusting of powdered sugar create delightful variations that add a fresh burst of flavor and elegance.
Side Dishes
Pair your pancakes with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a fresh fruit salad to round out the meal and keep things lively at the breakfast table. These sides complement the sweetness of the pancakes beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying bite every time.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Stack your pancakes neatly and drizzle with warm syrup, then sprinkle nuts or chocolate chips on top for texture and extra flair. You could also fold in blueberries or chocolate chips into the batter for a fun surprise in every bite. Presentation elevates the Pancakes From Scratch Recipe from simple to spectacular.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra pancakes, store them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to keep them from sticking. They’ll stay fresh for a couple of days in the fridge, making for a quick, delicious breakfast or snack later.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your pancakes by separating each with parchment paper, then wrap the entire stack tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready for a hot stack, you have a convenient stash waiting without losing any of that homemade goodness.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen pancakes in a toaster, oven, or skillet until warmed through and slightly crisped on the outside. This brings back that fresh-cooked charm and texture better than microwaving, which can sometimes make them gummy.
FAQs
Can I use a substitute for all-purpose flour?
While all-purpose flour works best for that classic pancake texture, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier bite, though pancakes may turn out denser. For gluten-free options, a blend designed for baking is your friend but may require slight adjustments to liquid amounts.
Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
The key to fluffiness is not over-mixing your batter and ensuring your baking powder is fresh. Also, flipping at the right time when bubbles appear will help create that airy structure. Avoid pressing down on pancakes once they’re cooking.
What’s the best way to measure flour for pancakes?
To get the most accurate results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to too much in the batter.
Can I add mix-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Gently folding in fresh or frozen berries or chocolate chips before cooking adds bursts of flavor and fun texture. Just be careful not to overmix after adding to maintain that light batter.
How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking multiple batches?
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and keep in a warm oven set around 200ºF. This way, they stay warm and soft without drying out while you finish making all the batches.
Final Thoughts
Making pancakes from scratch is truly a joyful experience, and this Pancakes From Scratch Recipe makes it so easy to savor that homemade goodness anytime you want. These pancakes are fluffy, flavorful, and full of nostalgic warmth — just what every breakfast table needs. Roll up your sleeves, gather these simple ingredients, and create a memorable, delicious morning that’s sure to put smiles around your kitchen.
Print
Pancakes From Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic homemade pancakes made from scratch, fluffy and golden brown, perfect for a delicious breakfast or brunch. These easy-to-make pancakes use simple pantry ingredients and are cooked on a griddle or skillet to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle or Skillet: Preheat your griddle or skillet to medium-high heat, approximately 350ºF. Lightly grease the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid over mixing; some lumps in the batter are expected and desirable.
- Cook the Pancakes: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pour batter onto the preheated griddle or skillet, shaping into circles as needed. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side. Flip the pancakes when air bubbles appear and start to pop on the surface.
- Finish Cooking: Cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Continue cooking in batches until all batter is used.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes immediately, topped with butter and maple syrup for the best flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine and help keep the pancakes fluffy.
- Adjust the heat of the griddle if pancakes brown too quickly or too slowly.
- This recipe yields about 10 standard pancakes using a 1/4 cup measure.
- For fluffier pancakes, ensure baking powder is fresh and properly measured.
- Butter and maple syrup are traditional toppings but fruits or whipped cream can be added for variety.
