Simple Pancake Recipe: Fluffy, Delicious, and Easy to Make!
Are you craving a delicious breakfast but short on time? Look no further! This simple pancake recipe delivers fluffy, golden-brown pancakes that are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a leisurely weekend brunch. No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques needed – just pure pancake perfection!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it incredibly convenient. You probably already have most of these!
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your pancakes.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness. Adjust to your preference!
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: The key ingredient for that fluffy texture. Make sure it's fresh!
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder for optimal rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1 ¼ cups milk: Provides moisture and helps create a tender crumb. You can use any kind of milk you like – whole milk, skim milk, almond milk, etc.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds flavor and keeps the pancakes moist. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the batter.
Easy-Peasy Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfect pancakes every time!
Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, leading to evenly cooked pancakes.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
Step 3: Gently Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking gently until just combined. Don't overmix! A few lumps are okay. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings! Some popular choices include butter, syrup, fruit, whipped cream, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing leads to tough pancakes.
- Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes: This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
- Adjust the sweetness: Add more or less sugar to your liking.
- Use fresh baking powder: Old baking powder will not provide the same lift.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give each pancake enough space to cook evenly.
Variations to Try:
- Blueberry Pancakes: Fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips.
- Banana Pancakes: Mash one ripe banana and add it to the batter.
This simple pancake recipe is a fantastic starting point for culinary creativity. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to find your perfect pancake combination! Enjoy!
