There’s nothing quite like a stack of fluffy, golden homemade pancakes to start your day off right. This classic breakfast treat is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings, from fresh berries to maple syrup. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a quiet morning, these pancakes are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
For the Pancake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
- Chocolate chips
- Sliced bananas
- Nuts
For Cooking:
- Additional butter or oil for the skillet
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Fresh fruit
- Powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pancake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using) until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes instead of fluffy ones.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Once the skillet is hot, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. If you’re adding any mix-ins like berries or chocolate chips, sprinkle them onto the batter at this point.
- Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set.
- Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown and the pancakes are cooked through.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and cover them with a clean towel to keep warm while you cook the remaining batter.
- Serve the pancakes warm with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or powdered sugar.
Tips for Success:
- Batter Consistency: The consistency of the batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a bit more flour.
- Even Cooking: To ensure your pancakes cook evenly, make sure your skillet is fully heated before adding the batter. If your pancakes are browning too quickly on the outside but not cooking through, lower the heat slightly.
- Keep Warm: To keep pancakes warm while you’re making multiple batches, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F/90°C) until ready to serve.
Conclusion:
Making homemade pancakes is a simple yet rewarding experience that brings the warmth and comfort of a classic breakfast to your table. With this easy recipe, you can whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes in no time, perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a special weekday treat. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite toppings for a delicious start to your day!