There’s nothing quite like homemade pancakes to start your morning right. This Good Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe is a tried-and-true classic, delivering light, fluffy pancakes with a golden-brown finish. Made with simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for a weekend breakfast or a comforting brunch. Serve them with butter, maple syrup, or your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying meal.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Pancakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- For Serving (Optional):
- Maple syrup
- Butter
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
How to Make Good Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using).
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix—lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and help keep the pancakes fluffy.
Cook the Pancakes:
- Preheat the Skillet or Griddle:
- Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water—if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the pan is ready.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Flip and Finish Cooking:
- Gently flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve:
- Stack and Serve Warm:
- Serve the pancakes immediately with butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, or your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips For Making This Recipe
- Do Not Overmix the Batter:
- Overmixing can make the pancakes dense. Stir just until combined, even if some lumps remain.
- Use a Hot, Greased Skillet:
- A properly preheated pan ensures a crispy golden-brown finish. Lightly grease with butter or oil before cooking each batch.
- Let the Batter Rest:
- Letting the batter sit for 5-10 minutes before cooking allows the baking powder to activate, making fluffier pancakes.
- Make Even-Sized Pancakes:
- Use a measuring cup to pour the batter for uniform pancakes that cook evenly.
- Keep Pancakes Warm:
- Place cooked pancakes in a 200°F oven on a baking sheet to keep them warm while finishing the batch.
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. Stir it lightly before cooking.
- How can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
- Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and replace the butter with melted coconut oil or vegetable oil.
- Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
- Absolutely! Let the pancakes cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.
- Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh, do not overmix the batter, and let the batter rest before cooking.
- Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
- Yes! Fold in blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts right before cooking for extra flavor.
This Good Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy homemade pancakes with your favorite toppings. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or even a fun breakfast-for-dinner night, these pancakes will be a hit every time!