Fluffy Pancakes

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 15 min.

Makes

8 pancakes

Updated: Oct. 30, 2023
I found this fluffy and easy pancake recipe among our old family favorites and adapted it to make a small amount. It's quick and easy to prepare, but we still consider it a special treat. —Eugene Presley, Council, Virginia

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup 2% milk
  • 1/4 cup shortening or butter, melted

Directions

  1. In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Combine egg, milk and shortening; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened.
  2. Pour batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto a greased hot griddle. Turn when bubbles form on top of pancakes; cook until the second side is golden brown.
Easy Pancakes Tips

Can you make pancakes from scratch without baking powder?

No baking powder? No problem! For every teaspoon of baking powder in the recipe, combine 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar, lemon juice or distilled vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch. Incorporate this quick baking substitution into the batter at the last minute and don’t let the batter rest but use it right away.

What mix-ins can you put in easy pancakes?

Of course, you can always go for classic mix-ins like chocolate chips or fresh fruit, but you can also play around with the key ingredients in the batter. Make these pancakes with your favorite nondairy milk, or, try substituting in whole wheat flour in place of the all-purpose flour for a higher protein and fiber content in each pancake!

Should you let the pancake batter rest?

Yes, you should let the pancake batter rest! Resting the batter for about 5 minutes before spooning onto the griddle allows it to hydrate evenly and helps relax any gluten that may develop, resulting in tender and fluffy pancakes. Check out our other fluffy pancake recipes.

Why is the first pancake on the griddle always bad?

The first pancake doesn't have to be bad if you follow these tips. To avoid a bad first pancake, it is best to first season your skillet or griddle by heating it over medium heat. Then, carefully grease the cooking surface with oil or butter, wiping off any excess with a paper towel. You can also try making a test pancake with a small spoonful of batter to gauge whether your pan is the right temperature.

Why are my pancakes not fluffy?

The culprit is likely overmixing the pancake batter, which overworks the gluten in the flour. Use a gentle hand when folding the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until incorporated. It’s ideal to see some streaks and pockets of flour. You can also try adding this secret ingredient that makes the fluffiest pancakes ever.

What can you serve with easy pancakes?

First, don't forget to top your fluffy pancakes with the best maple syrup and a dollop of homemade whipped cream. But if you are looking to make this a well-rounded breakfast, you can pair this easy pancake recipe with delicious eggs, cooked any way you’d like. Add some protein with caramelized bacon twists, and wash it all down with a refreshing smoothie!

—Ellie Crowley, Taste of Home Culinary Assistant and Mark Neufang, Taste of Home Culinary Assistant

Nutrition Facts

2 pancakes: 274 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 664mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.