How to Make the Perfect Classic Fluffy Pancakes
American · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings

Light and airy pancakes with a golden crust and tender interior that are perfect for a weekend breakfast. They cook up quickly and pair wonderfully with maple syrup and fresh fruit.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Fluffy Pancakes recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 280 calories with 8g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.25 cups whole milk
- 1 whole large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy. Do not overmix or the pancakes will be tough.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates immediately.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Pour about one quarter cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- whole milk → buttermilk or oat milk
- butter → vegetable oil or coconut oil
- all-purpose flour → a 1 to 1 gluten-free flour blend
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overmixing the batter which develops gluten and produces flat dense pancakes
- Cooking on too high a heat which burns the outside before the inside is cooked through
- Flipping the pancakes more than once which deflates them and makes them chewy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 280 calories, 8g protein, 42g carbs, 9g fat, 1g fiber.
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