How to Make Delicious Homemade Pancakes from Scratch

Who doesn’t love waking up to the aroma of freshly cooked pancakes? The sweet smell, the fluffy texture, and the delicious taste make pancakes a favorite breakfast option worldwide. Fortunately, making pancakes from scratch is not only simple but also allows you to enjoy healthier and tastier pancakes than the store-bought mixes. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, follow these easy steps to make delicious homemade pancakes.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. For this basic pancake recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 3 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of white sugar
• 1 and ¼ cups of milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons of melted butter
• A bit of extra butter or oil for cooking

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Sifting is not just about removing lumps; it also aerates the flour, making your pancakes lighter and fluffier. If you don’t have a sifter, a whisk can also do the trick.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the egg lightly and then whisk in the milk and melted butter. This little bit of prep helps to ensure that these ingredients blend smoothly with the dry ingredients. Be sure that your melted butter is cooled down a bit so it doesn’t cook the egg when you mix them together.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently mix everything together. Remember, the key to fluffy pancakes is not overmixing. It’s totally fine if your batter has small lumps; in fact, it’s preferable. Just mix until you no longer see any dry flour.

Step 4: Preheat Your Pan or Griddle

Place your pan or griddle over medium heat and let it warm up. You can drop a small amount of water onto the surface to check its readiness; if it dances or evaporates instantly, the pan is ready. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately ¼ cup for each pancake. The size can be adjusted based on your preference. Wait until the surface of the pancakes begins to show some bubbles, and the edges look set, which usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, flip the pancakes gently and cook until the second side is golden brown, which should take about another minute. Adjust the heat as necessary.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve your homemade pancakes warm. They’re delicious fresh off the griddle, but you can also keep them in a warm oven if you’re making a big batch. Now, the best part – the toppings! The beauty of pancakes is their versatility. Classic maple syrup and a pat of butter never disappoint, but don’t hesitate to get creative. Fresh fruits, chocolate chips, honey, nut butter, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can transform your pancakes into a delightful treat.

Tips for Perfect Pancakes Every Time:

1. Let the Batter Rest: If you have time, let your batter sit for about 10 minutes after mixing. This allows the gluten to relax and results in tender pancakes.

2. Test for Doneness: If you’re unsure whether a pancake is ready to flip, gently lift an edge to peek underneath. Look for a nice, golden brown color.

3. Avoid Flattening: Resist the temptation to press down on your pancakes with the spatula. It might seem like a good idea, but it will squeeze out the air that makes pancakes fluffy.

4. Experiment: Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to try different add-ins or toppings. Blueberries, bananas, nuts, and chocolate chips are all popular mix-ins that can be added to the batter.

Making pancakes from scratch is an easy and enjoyable way to start the day. Not only are homemade pancakes superior in taste and texture, but they also allow you to control the quality of ingredients. With this simple recipe and helpful tips, you’re all set to whip up a batch of delicious, fluffy pancakes that are sure to impress your family and friends. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, and let’s make breakfast something to look forward to!