Fluffy Pancakes – The Best Classic Breakfast Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing like the smell of fresh, fluffy pancakes sizzling on the griddle to make a morning feel special. Light, airy, and perfectly golden, these pancakes are a timeless breakfast favorite.

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Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting brunch, or treating yourself on a lazy Sunday, this recipe guarantees perfect pancakes every time.

We’ll walk you through everything—from creating that cloud-like texture to getting an even golden-brown finish. Plus, we’ll share tips for storage, reheating, and delicious topping ideas.

Don’t miss our guide on The Secrets to Perfect Homemade Waffles for more breakfast inspiration.

Why Fluffy Pancakes Are a Breakfast Classic

Comfort in every bite

Pancakes have been a breakfast staple for generations. They’re simple, affordable, and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for any occasion.

The science of fluffiness

It’s all about balance—using the right amount of leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) creates air bubbles that expand during cooking, giving pancakes their signature lift

🥞 Fluffy Pancakes – The Best Classic Breakfast Recipe

Print Recipe

Wake up to the fluffiest pancakes you’ve ever tasted! These golden, airy stacks are lightly crisp on the edges and tender inside, perfect with butter and a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday treat, this easy recipe guarantees café-quality pancakes right in your kitchen. Make them today and watch them disappear fast — print the recipe and save it for your breakfast favorites!

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 (about 12 pancakes)

Ingredients

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• 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour

• 3 ½ tsp baking powder

• 1 Tbsp granulated sugar

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) whole milk (room temperature)

• 1 large egg (room temperature)

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Butter or oil for greasing the pan

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Instructions

• Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.

• Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

• Create the batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. (A few small lumps are okay — do not overmix.)

• Preheat and grease: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.

• Cook pancakes: Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

• Serve warm: Stack pancakes on a plate, top with butter, and drizzle generously with maple syrup or your favorite toppings.

Notes

• Fluff Factor: For extra fluffiness, let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking.

• Even Cooking: Keep the heat at medium; too high will brown the outside before the inside cooks.

• Flavor Boost: Swap vanilla for almond extract or add a pinch of cinnamon for a twist.

• Toppings: Beyond syrup, try fresh berries, whipped cream, or nut butter for variety.

• Make-Ahead: Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container and reheat in the toaster for a quick breakfast.

• Author: SOFIA
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients for Fluffy Pancakes

Core ingredients (Makes ~8 pancakes)

Why vinegar?

Combining vinegar with milk makes a quick “soured milk,” which reacts with baking soda to boost fluffiness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Basic equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Nonstick skillet or griddle
• Spatula

Helpful extras

• Ladle or measuring cup for consistent portions
• Cooling rack for keeping pancakes warm without sogginess

How to Make Fluffy Pancakes – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make the soured milk

In a medium bowl, stir together the milk and vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly—this will give your pancakes extra lift.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In the bowl with soured milk, whisk in the egg and melted butter until smooth.

Step 4: Make the batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Whisk gently until lumps are gone—don’t overmix or the pancakes may become dense.

Step 5: Cook the pancakes

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
2. Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the surface.
3. Cook until bubbles form and edges look set, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

Optional Mix-Ins and Toppings

Mix-ins

• Blueberries
• Chocolate chips
• Sliced bananas
• Cinnamon

Toppings

• Maple syrup
• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream
• Nut butter drizzle

Nutritional Value and Health Perks

Estimated nutrition (per pancake without toppings)

• Calories: ~90
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 3g

Health tips

For a lighter version, use whole wheat flour and reduce sugar. Swap butter for coconut oil or mashed banana.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best sides for pancakes

• Crispy bacon
• Fresh fruit salad
• Yogurt parfait

Drink pairings

• Hot coffee or cappuccino
• Fresh orange juice
• Herbal tea

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Advice

• Refrigerator: Store pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Stack with parchment paper between each pancake and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Toast in a toaster or warm in the oven for best texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

FAQs

Why are my pancakes flat?
Likely due to old baking powder or overmixing the batter.

Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, but for fluffiness, add 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk.

What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm?
Place them in a 200°F oven on a wire rack.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best cooked fresh, but you can mix dry ingredients in advance.

Why add vinegar to milk?
It creates acidity that reacts with baking soda for more rise.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply multiply all ingredients accordingly.