Are you craving the best pancake recipe for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch? Look no further than this fluffy American pancakes recipe! With only 6 simple ingredients and just 2 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a stack of soft, golden pancakes that practically melt in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for the family or treating yourself to a lazy Sunday brunch, this quick pancake recipe will be your go-to.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder (make sure it’s fresh to help your pancakes rise)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 pinch of salt
3/4 cup milk (whole milk or 2% for the fluffiest results)
1 egg (use a room temperature egg for a fluffier texture)
2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option)
- Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
A pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
A splash of vanilla extract for added sweetness.
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect stack of light and fluffy pancakes:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that your pancakes will rise evenly.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and melted butter (or oil if you’re going dairy-free). The melted butter adds richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to use vegetable oil.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined — avoid overmixing! A few small lumps are okay and will ensure your pancakes stay fluffy.
- Rest the Batter: Here’s a pro tip for super fluffy pancakes: let the batter rest for 1-2 minutes. This gives the baking powder time to activate, leading to perfectly risen pancakes.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of batter for each pancake, making sure not to spread them too thin. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute or until golden brown on both sides.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pancakes:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops gluten, which can make your pancakes dense and chewy rather than light and airy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Too high of a heat can burn your pancakes before they have a chance to cook through. Keep the heat low to medium for fluffy, evenly cooked pancakes.
- The Perfect Flip: Wait for bubbles to form and pop on the surface before flipping. This ensures the batter has set, making it easier to flip without spilling.
Delicious topping ideas for your pancakes:
Now that you have a delicious stack of fluffy pancakes, the fun part begins: choosing your toppings! Here are some classic and creative options to elevate your breakfast:
- Maple Syrup: The go-to pancake topping. The sweetness of the syrup pairs perfectly with the light, fluffy texture of these pancakes.
- Fresh Berries: Add strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite berries for a fresh and fruity touch.
- Sliced Bananas: For extra flavor, try caramelizing bananas in a bit of butter and cinnamon before adding them to your pancakes.
- Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips either into the batter before cooking or sprinkle them on top of your pancakes for an indulgent treat.
- Nut Butters: A dollop of almond, peanut, or cashew butter adds protein and a deliciously nutty flavor to your pancakes.
- Chopped Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds can add a satisfying crunch to your soft, fluffy pancakes.
Storing and Reheating Pancakes:
Want to enjoy your pancakes later? Here’s how to store and reheat them for another delicious meal:
- In the Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze pancakes by laying them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from sticking together.
- Reheating Pancakes: To reheat, pop your pancakes in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute or toast them directly from frozen for a crispy edge.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re serving these fluffy pancakes for a weekend brunch or a weekday breakfast, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. This recipe is quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make them your own!
Join the Comfort Food Movement!
If you love this American Pancakes Recipe, be sure to share your experience in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out our other delicious breakfast recipes for more inspiration!