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Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the batter.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Gently stir the mixture with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should still be a little lumpy, which helps create a fluffy texture. If the batter seems too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Heat the Pan
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of butter or oil. To test if the pan is hot enough, sprinkle a drop of water onto the surface—if it dances and sizzles, the pan is ready.
5. Cook the Pancakes
For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles begin to form on the surface of the pancake and the edges start to look set. Flip the pancake using a spatula, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pancakes from the pan and keep them warm on a plate while you cook the remaining pancakes. Serve your homemade pancakes with your favorite toppings, such as syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra treat, sprinkle some chocolate chips or nuts into the batter before cooking.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Pancakes
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter will result in dense pancakes. Stir the batter until just combined, even if there are a few lumps left. This helps to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Adjust the Heat: If your pancakes are browning too quickly on the outside but remaining raw on the inside, lower the heat slightly. Cooking on medium heat ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with Add-ins: You can easily customize your pancakes by adding ingredients such as chocolate chips, blueberries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts to the batter.
- Keep Them Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the finished pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven while you cook the rest.
- Make it Vegan or Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a non-dairy butter substitute to make this recipe suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets.
Why This Recipe Works
This homemade pancake recipe is simple yet delivers perfect results every time. The combination of flour, baking powder, and a touch of sugar creates a light and fluffy texture, while the milk and butter add richness and moisture. The batter is quick to prepare, and the pancakes cook evenly on the stove, making this recipe ideal for a fast, satisfying breakfast. The best part is the versatility—you can top your pancakes with whatever you like, from classic maple syrup to fresh berries or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Toppings: Maple syrup, butter, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Fruity Delights: Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) or sliced bananas make a fresh and sweet addition.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds an indulgent, airy touch.
- Nutty Goodness: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds can add crunch and flavor to your stack.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Top with chocolate chips, or even a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a decadent twist.
Conclusion
Making homemade pancakes from scratch is a simple and rewarding process that brings the comfort of a traditional breakfast right to your table. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create fluffy, golden pancakes that are perfect for any occasion. Customize them with your favorite toppings, serve them alongside fresh fruit, or drizzle with syrup for the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a weekend breakfast, this homemade pancake recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
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