Golden and fluffy old-fashioned pancakes made from scratch! This easy recipe calls for simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, milk, and butter. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these classic pancakes are a family favorite.
There’s something special about starting your day with a plateful of warm, fluffy pancakes. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a busy weekday, indulging in homemade pancakes is always a treat. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making classic old-fashioned pancakes from scratch. Get ready to awaken your taste buds and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you embark on your pancake-making journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or more to taste
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg
Step 1: Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by sifting the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt together in a large mixing bowl. This ensures that your dry ingredients are well combined and free of any lumps.
Step 2: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the milk, melted butter, and egg. Gently whisk everything together until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough pancakes.
Step 3: Heat the Griddle
Preheat a lightly oiled griddle or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. To test if the griddle is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water sizzles and evaporates, it’s time to start cooking!
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pancakes are golden brown on the bottom, carefully flip them over using a spatula. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown. Transfer the pancakes to a plate and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Don’t overmix the batter: A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and will result in lighter, fluffier pancakes.
- Adjust the heat: If your pancakes are browning too quickly or unevenly, adjust the temperature of the griddle accordingly.
- Keep them warm: If you’re cooking multiple batches of pancakes, keep the cooked ones warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with your pancake toppings! Here are some delicious variations to consider:
- Blueberry Pancakes: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before cooking.
- Banana Nut Pancakes: Add chopped nuts and sliced bananas to the batter for a hearty twist.
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Sprinkle chocolate chips onto the pancakes as they cook for a sweet treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in slightly denser pancakes.
Can I substitute the sugar with a healthier alternative?
Absolutely! Feel free to use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute of your choice in place of white sugar.
How can I make these pancakes dairy-free?
You can easily make dairy-free pancakes by using a plant-based milk alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk, and replacing the butter with a non-dairy spread or oil.
Can I freeze leftover pancakes for later?
Yes, leftover pancakes can be frozen for later enjoyment. Simply stack the cooled pancakes with parchment paper in between each one, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave until warmed through.
Can I add toppings to the batter?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative with your pancake toppings. You can add chocolate chips, fruit, nuts, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra flavor.
There’s no denying the allure of a stack of homemade old-fashioned pancakes. With this foolproof recipe and a few handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to pancake perfection. So fire up that griddle, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a breakfast that’s sure to bring smiles all around.
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