Easy Pancake Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting than a stack of Easy Pancake Recipe drizzled with warm maple syrup, topped with butter, and served with a side of crispy bacon. A staple of American breakfasts, pancakes have been enjoyed for centuries, but the fluffy pancakes recipe we know today has evolved into the perfect combination of lightness, fluffiness, and a slightly tangy richness from buttermilk.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make the best homemade buttermilk pancakes, this detailed guide will walk you through every step—from choosing the right ingredients to expert techniques that guarantee fluffy, golden pancakes every time. Whether you’re making these for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just because, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

The History of Pancakes in America

Pancakes have been a beloved dish worldwide for centuries. The earliest form of pancakes dates back to Ancient Greece and Rome, where they were made with wheat flour, olive oil, honey, and curdled milk. In America, pancakes became a breakfast tradition as early as the 18th century, evolving from European recipes.

The introduction of buttermilk into pancake batter gave birth to the modern American fluffy pancakes recipe, thanks to its ability to react with baking soda and create extra fluffiness. Today, pancakes are enjoyed across the country with various toppings, but classic buttermilk pancakes remain an all-time favorite.

Why Buttermilk Makes Pancakes Fluffier

The secret to homemade buttermilk pancakes is in the buttermilk. Buttermilk is slightly acidic, which does two things:

Reacts with baking soda & baking powder, creating bubbles that make pancakes extra fluffy.
Tenderizes the gluten in flour, giving pancakes a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients for the Easy Pancake Recipe (Serves 4-6)

To make fluffy buttermilk pancakes, you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar (adjust for sweetness)
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

2 cups buttermilk (room temperature)
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended for flavor)

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures even distribution and prevents overmixing later.

2️⃣ Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. The buttermilk should be at room temperature to prevent the melted butter from solidifying.

3️⃣ Make the Pancake Batter

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy.
Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes while you heat the pan. This allows the gluten to relax and creates fluffier pancakes.

4️⃣ Heat & Cook the Pancakes

Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2-3 minutes).
Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

Stack the pancakes high and serve with:
✅ Maple syrup
✅ Fresh berries
✅ Whipped cream
✅ Butter & powdered sugar

Pro Tips for Perfect Easy Pancake Recipe

✔️ Use Fresh Buttermilk: Buttermilk provides the best texture and flavor. If you don’t have it, make your own (see below).
✔️ Don’t Overmix: Overmixing makes pancakes dense instead of fluffy.
✔️ Let the Batter Rest: A 5-10 minute rest allows air bubbles to form, creating extra fluffy pancakes.
✔️ Control the Heat: If pancakes brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.

Buttermilk Substitute (DIY Buttermilk in 5 Minutes!)

If you don’t have buttermilk, make a quick substitute:

Mix 2 cups of milk with 2 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
Use it as a 1:1 replacement for buttermilk.

This DIY version won’t be as rich as real buttermilk, but it works in a pinch!

Pancake Variations & Add-Ins

Want to customize your fluffy pancakes recipe? Try these delicious variations:

🥞 Blueberry Pancakes: Fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
🍫 Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
🍌 Banana Pancakes: Mash 1 ripe banana into the batter for natural sweetness.
🌱 Gluten-Free Pancakes: Use 1:1 gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
🥜 Protein Pancakes: Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder for a high-protein breakfast.

Common Pancake Mistakes & How to Fix Them

❌ Pancakes are too dense: You may have overmixed the batter or your baking powder is expired.
❌ Pancakes spread too much: The batter is too thin—add a bit more flour.
❌ Pancakes are burning: Reduce the heat and wipe excess butter from the pan.
❌ Flat pancakes: Not enough baking powder or overmixed batter.

How to Store & Reheat Pancakes

📌 Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
📌 Freezer: Layer pancakes with parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months.
📌 Reheat: Warm in the microwave (30 seconds) or toaster (low setting).

What to Serve with Buttermilk Pancakes

Looking for a complete breakfast spread? Serve your pancakes with:

🥓 Crispy bacon or sausage
🍳 Scrambled or fried eggs
🍓 Fresh fruit & yogurt
🧈 Peanut butter or almond butter for extra protein