Name: Fluffy Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 1/4 cups milk; 1 egg; 3 tbsp melted butter (plus more for cooking); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

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Fluffy Pancakes are the quintessential breakfast comfort food—golden on the outside, pillowy soft on the inside, and irresistibly light with each bite. Whether you stack them high with butter and syrup or enjoy them with fruit and whipped cream, these homemade pancakes will become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pancakes deliver everything you want in a classic morning favorite: simplicity, quick preparation, and a light texture that soaks up syrup beautifully. Unlike store-bought mixes, this homemade version uses everyday ingredients and creates superior flavor and fluffiness. They’re freezer-friendly, customizable, and perfect for both leisurely weekend brunches and quick weekday mornings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Sugar
Egg
Milk or buttermilk
Vanilla extract
Butter (melted)
Optional toppings: maple syrup, berries, whipped cream, chocolate chips

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
In another bowl, whisk the egg with milk, vanilla, and melted butter.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; a few small lumps are fine. Do not overmix.
Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the leavening agents to activate.
Heat a lightly greased nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set.
Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Serve warm with desired toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 10–12 pancakes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Blueberry Pancakes: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter.
Chocolate Chip: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet touch.
Whole Wheat: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier version.
Lemon Ricotta: Add ricotta cheese and lemon zest for an elevated twist.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, place pancakes between layers of parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster, microwave, or skillet until warmed through.

FAQs

What makes pancakes fluffy?

Baking powder and baking soda create air bubbles, and letting the batter rest helps enhance fluffiness.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

For best results, mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking.

Do I have to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds extra fluffiness and tang, but regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar works too.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, but butter adds better flavor. Use neutral oil like canola or vegetable if substituting.

Why are my pancakes dense?

Overmixing the batter can result in dense, tough pancakes. Stir just until combined.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.

What pan works best?

A nonstick skillet or griddle heated evenly over medium heat ensures golden, uniform pancakes.

Can I use this recipe for waffles?

While similar, waffles need more fat and a thicker batter. It’s best to use a waffle-specific recipe.

Why are there bubbles on the surface?

Bubbles indicate the pancakes are ready to flip, which helps avoid undercooking.

What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm?

Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Fluffy Pancakes are a timeless breakfast favorite that never disappoints. With a soft, airy interior and a golden exterior, this recipe is your ticket to morning perfection. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, it ensures every bite is warm, comforting, and satisfying. Once you try this homemade version, boxed mixes will be a thing of the past.

Fluffy Pancakes

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Fluffy Pancakes are light, airy, and perfectly golden breakfast favorites made with simple pantry ingredients. They’re easy to whip up in minutes and deliver soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture every time—ideal for a classic morning treat.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Yield: 8 pancakes 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 1/4 cups milk
1 egg
3 tbsp melted butter (plus more for cooking)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla (if using).
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be a little lumpy.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set, about 2–3 minutes.
Flip and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Repeat with remaining batter. Serve warm with butter, syrup, or your favorite toppings.