Looking for the best homemade pancake recipe that’s easy, quick, and made from pantry staples? These classic pancakes from scratch are everything you love—light, fluffy, golden, and ready in minutes. Whether you’re making breakfast for the family or a weekend brunch, this easy pancake recipe never fails.
In this article
Why You’ll Love These Easy Pancakes
- No boxed mix needed – all ingredients are from your pantry
- Light and fluffy texture every time
- Beginner-friendly – no special tools or skills needed
- Perfect for customizing with toppings or mix-ins
Ingredients for Homemade Pancakes
You only need 7 simple ingredients to whip up these delicious pancakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
Tip: For extra flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon.
How to Make Pancakes from Scratch – Step by Step
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
Make a well in the center and pour in milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix until the batter is smooth but don’t overmix—some small lumps are okay.
3. Preheat and Grease Your Pan
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the Pancakes
Pour or scoop about ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set (about 2–3 minutes). Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
5. Serve Warm
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings!
Topping Ideas for the Ultimate Pancake Stack
These pancakes are delicious on their own but even better with:
- Maple syrup and butter
- Fresh berries or banana slices
- Chocolate chips or nut butter
- Whipped cream and honey
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar
Pro Tips for Fluffy Pancakes
- Don’t overmix the batter—it makes pancakes dense instead of fluffy.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking for even better texture.
- Use a nonstick pan or griddle for perfect golden pancakes every time.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in the oven at 200°F (95°C) while finishing the batch.
FAQ: Homemade Pancake Recipe
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: Yes! Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to add a bit more milk.
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can mix the dry ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze these pancakes?
A: Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then freeze between sheets of parchment paper. Reheat in a toaster or microwave.
Final Thoughts
This easy pancake recipe is a timeless breakfast favorite—simple, satisfying, and perfect every single time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these fluffy homemade pancakes are the best way to start your day.