Fluffy Pancakes

Fluffy Pancakes are the cornerstone of a comforting breakfast—light, airy, and golden brown with a soft and tender crumb. These pancakes rise beautifully on the griddle, creating a pillowy stack that soaks up maple syrup and pairs perfectly with butter, fruit, or your favorite toppings. Whether you enjoy them during a leisurely weekend brunch or as a weekday treat, these classic pancakes offer warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Fluffy Pancakes recipe delivers a diner-style breakfast with ingredients you likely already have on hand. The texture is light and thick, making them ideal for soaking up syrup without becoming soggy. They cook evenly with a golden crust on the outside and a soft, moist interior. It’s a no-fuss recipe that is versatile, kid-friendly, and easily adaptable for dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these pancakes come together quickly and impress every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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All-purpose flour
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Baking powder
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Granulated sugar
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Salt
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Milk (preferably whole milk)
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Large eggs
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Unsalted butter (melted)
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Vanilla extract
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Optional toppings: butter, syrup, berries, whipped cream
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to activate the leavening and ensure fluffier pancakes.
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Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
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Use a 1/4 cup measure to pour batter onto the skillet.
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Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look dry, about 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
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Serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 8 medium-sized pancakes and serves about 4 people. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes. Total time required is 25 minutes.
Variations
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Buttermilk Pancakes: Substitute the milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangy and richer flavor.
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Whole Wheat Version: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nutty taste.
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Blueberry Pancakes: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries just before cooking.
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Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a sweeter twist.
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Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or toast them lightly to restore some crispness. Pancakes also freeze well—layer them between parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the toaster or microwave.
FAQs
What makes pancakes fluffy?
The combination of baking powder and resting the batter creates air pockets, leading to a fluffy texture.
Can I make the batter the night before?
Yes, you can refrigerate the batter overnight, but add baking powder just before cooking for best results.
Why are my pancakes flat?
Flat pancakes often result from overmixing the batter or not using fresh baking powder.
Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, almond milk and other plant-based milks work well in this recipe.
How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking batches?
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish the rest.
Should I use butter or oil for greasing the skillet?
Butter adds flavor but can burn easily. Use a mix of butter and neutral oil or non-stick spray for best results.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredients while maintaining the same mixing method.
What’s the best pan to use?
A non-stick skillet or cast iron griddle distributes heat evenly and prevents sticking.
How thick should the batter be?
The batter should be pourable but thick enough to hold its shape—thicker than crepe batter.
Can I make mini pancakes with this recipe?
Yes, just use about a tablespoon of batter per pancake and reduce cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Fluffy Pancakes are a timeless breakfast staple that never goes out of style. With a simple ingredient list and easy preparation, they’re perfect for any skill level and occasion. Whether stacked high for a weekend brunch or made in a hurry on a busy morning, their irresistible texture and taste will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy them with syrup, fruit, or your favorite toppings for a meal that feels indulgent yet homemade.
PrintFluffy Pancakes
Fluffy Pancakes are light, tender, and thick pancakes made from scratch with pantry staples. Perfect for a classic breakfast topped with syrup, fruit, or butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 pancakes 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while heating a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Grease the skillet with a little butter or oil.
- Pour about 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 cook for another 1-2 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
Notes
- Letting the batter rest helps create fluffier pancakes.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the batter.
- Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer and reheat in the toaster or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: fluffy pancakes, homemade pancakes, classic breakfast, easy pancake recipe, American pancakes