The Perfect Pancake Recipe

This fluffy pancake recipe has the perfect amount of fluff, and sweetness in the batter. They’re buttery, so delicious, and easy to make! Sharing everything you need to know to make these fool-proof pancakes!

These fluffy pancakes are perfect for brunch. Pair them with one of our brunch cocktail recipes for the ultimate meal!

We’ve been enjoying this fluffy pancake recipe for years. They are absolutely perfect with crispy buttery edges and a fluffy texture on the inside.

You really can’t go wrong with these and everyone loves them! We have a pumpkin version that is just as good for the fall and the best lemon ricotta pancakes for spring!

In need of some more brunch recipes? Try our monkey bread recipe and our amazing monkey bread muffins! 

A Quick History of Pancakes

The history of pancakes stretches back over 30,000 years ago to a time with stone-age tools and ground flour out of local plants like ferns and cattails. 

It’s thought that the flour was mixed with water and then baked on a hot rock, closer to what we know today as a crepe.

The ancient Greeks elevated the dish by topping them with honey, and eventually, the recipe morphed to include modern-day ingredients like egg, butter, and milk. 

How to Make Pancakes

We’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best pancakes answer frequently asked questions and share our expert tips for recipe success. If you prefer to jump to the recipe, you can scroll to the bottom where you’ll find the recipe card and measurements.

Supplies

You’ll need a few supplies to make this recipe:

• Smooth Griddle or Large Non-stick Pan

• Measuring Spoons and Cups

• Large Bowl

• Silicone Spatula

Ingredient Notes to make Perfect Pancakes

These classic pancakes are made using simple ingredients:

Whole Milk – Use organic whole milk. Milk provides structure and moisture to the recipe.

Butter – Unsalted butter is best for this recipe.

Eggs – Use large organic eggs when possible. Adds egg moisture and structure to the pancakes.

Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla will enhance and add flavor to the pancakes.

All-Purpose Flour – We use King Arthur four. Flour adds structure to the pancakes. You can also use whole wheat flour if you prefer. Make sure you measure the flour properly when baking.

Granulated Sugar – Sugar will sweeten the batter. If you want a healthier option, try monk fruit sweetener. It will change the flavor of the pancakes, but it’s a great alternative.

Baking Powder – This will create a fluffy texture and help them rise.

Making Pancakes Step-by-Step

Follow the below steps to make these delicious, fluffy pancakes:

• Whisk together wet ingredients – Milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. I usually do this in a large glass measuring cup.

• Whisk together dry ingredients – In a medium mixing bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and give it a few whisks just to lightly combine. The batter should be lumpy! 

• Preheat the griddle over medium-high heat. If using an electric griddle set the temperature to 375°F.

• Cook the pancakes – Add a good amount of butter to the griddle and push it around where the pancake batter will be. Add 1/3 cup dollops of batter onto the griddle. Add what you can, giving the battered space to spread and cook. 

• Cook for 2 – 3 minutes on one side until bubbles form. 

• Then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. 

• Do not flip the pancakes again.

• Once the pancakes are cooked, remove them from the griddle and onto a plate. Continue making more pancakes until the batter is gone.

• Enjoy – Serve these fluffy pancakes warm with butter and maple syrup! 

Tips For the Perfect Pancake Recipe

• Do not over-mix the batter. The batter should be lumpy and not smooth. 

• Use a griddle or a large non-stick pan to cook the pancakes.

• Use 1/3 cup batter for each pancake.

• Carefully and gently wipe the hot griddle between pancakes and add new butter so the butter won’t burn. I usually do this with a paper towel. 

• Always use, whole organic ingredients when possible.

• Never flip a pancake twice. Once you flip it let it cook on the other side and then remove it from the griddle.

What Can You Add to Pancakes?

Here are some fun suggestions for what you can add to your pancake batter before cooking them on the griddle.

• Chocolate Chips 
• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Ricotta 
• Strawberries
• Gingerbread Spices 
• Peanut Butter 
• Coconut 
• Cocoa Powder
• Matcha Powder

If you’re serving guests, set up a pancake bar for a fun entertaining idea. Similar to our waffle bar, you place out toppings and sauces for guests to make their own pancake combinations. 

Have Fun with Pancake Shapes

Making pancakes in fun shapes is a great way to get creative and make breakfast more exciting.

To make pancake shapes, all you need is a squeeze bottle and some creativity! Fill the squeeze bottle with your favorite pancake batter, then draw or write whatever design you’d like onto a pre-heated griddle.

Flip the pancake when it’s golden brown and cook for an additional minute, then remove it from the griddle and enjoy your pancake creation.

The Perfect Pancake Toppings

When it comes to the perfect toppings, it’s all a matter of personal preference. If you’re going with traditional batter, you can opt for butter and syrup or keep things fresh with a fruit compote. 

If you add some fun flavors to your pancakes, try to think of complementary pairings. Fruity pancakes go well with more subdued toppings, whereas chocolatey pancakes are delicious with a bright, tart topping.

Here are some of our favorite toppings:

• Berries
• Caramel Sauce
• Crème Fraîche
• Chocolate Ganache
• Nutella
• Sliced Bananas
• Preserves 
• Whipped Cream
• Pecans and Walnuts
• Powdered Sugar
• Whipped Butter 
• Gingerbread Syrup
• Peanut Butter

How to Keep Pancakes Warm

If you’re making pancakes for a family or larger group, it can be difficult to keep them warm while everyone is served. To keep the pancakes warm, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). As you finish each batch of pancakes, place them on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.

How to Store Leftover Pancakes

Refrigerate

Leftover pancakes can last for several days if stored properly. The best way to store them is to wrap each pancake individually using aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will help to keep the moisture in and prevent them from drying out. Once wrapped, place the pancakes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Freeze

You can freeze them by layering each pancake between wax paper or parchment and placing them in a sealed plastic bag or another airtight container. Label the bag with the date and freeze it for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat, remove from the bag and thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a toaster oven or microwave.

When to Serve Pancakes

Pancakes are a breakfast and brunch staple. They can be served any time of the year and are great for a relaxing weekend morning or for special occasions such as:

Christmas Brunch

Easter Brunch 

Spring Brunch  or Fall Brunch

Pancake Breakfast

What to Serve with Pancakes

We suggest serving eggs and bacon with pancakes. You can also serve a fresh fruit platter with the best fruit dip too. Here are some recipes we love:

The Best Frittata 

Chorizo Quiche

Banana Bread 

Peanut Butter Smoothie 

Frequently Asked Questions

More Brunch Recipes You’ll Love!

Here are a few more of our favorite brunch recipes:

Super Moist Pumpkin Bread

The Best Brown Butter Overnight Yeast Waffles

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Homemade Ricotta 

Semi-Homemade Cinnamon Rolls 

The Best Blueberry Muffins

The Best Lemon Loaf Cake

And to wash those delicious pancakes down, make one of our favorite coffee recipes! 

Let us know what you think!

Let us know if you make this pancake recipe by leaving a comment and review below! We’d love to know your thoughts! 

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