Introduction
Pancakes are a beloved breakfast staple, cherished for their fluffy texture and versatility. This easy homemade pancake recipe from Love and Lemons simplifies the process, allowing you to create delicious pancakes with minimal effort. Whether you’re making breakfast for yourself or serving a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 tablespoons cane sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
1¼ cups milk, plus more as needed
1 large egg
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, or neutral oil
Maple syrup, for serving
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 6 pancakes
With these simple steps and ingredients, you can enjoy a delightful stack of homemade pancakes. They’re perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, especially when drizzled with warm maple syrup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cane sugar, baking powder, and sea salt until well mixed.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, and melted butter until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; a few lumps in the batter are normal. If the batter appears too thick, gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Prepare Cooking Surface
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly brush the skillet with unsalted butter or neutral oil.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Using a ⅓-cup scoop, pour the pancake batter into the skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side until the pancakes are puffed and golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional minute or until cooked through in the center. Adjust the heat to low if necessary to ensure the middles cook without burning the outsides.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Notes
Tip for Perfect Pancakes
Make sure not to overmix the batter to maintain fluffy pancakes; a few lumps are perfectly okay.
Adjusting Consistency
If your batter is too thick, adding extra milk helps achieve a smoother pourable consistency.
Cooking Temperature
Keep an eye on the heat while cooking; adjusting it may be necessary to ensure even cooking without burning.
Keep Warm
If making a large batch, keep the completed pancakes warm in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.
Cook Techniques
Whisking Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and sea salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of these dry ingredients.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter until well blended, ensuring that each ingredient is mixed in properly.
Mixing Batter
When adding wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. It’s okay to have a few lumps; this helps avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough pancakes.
Adjusting Batter Consistency
If the batter appears too thick, gradually add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached for perfect fluffiness.
Cooking Technique
Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, greasing it lightly with butter or oil. Pour in the batter with a scoop, cooking pancakes until they are puffed and golden brown, adjusting the heat as necessary for thorough cooking without burning the outsides.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser pancakes. Consider mixing with all-purpose flour for lighter results.
What kind of milk can I use?
You can use any type of milk, including dairy or non-dairy options like almond or oat milk, depending on your preference.
How can I make these pancakes vegan?
To make the pancakes vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk along with a vegan butter or oil.
How do I store leftover pancakes?
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage, separating each pancake with parchment paper.
Can I add ingredients like blueberries or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can fold in blueberries, chocolate chips, or other add-ins into the batter just before cooking for a flavorful twist.
Conclusion
Easy Homemade Pancakes are a delightful and versatile breakfast option that can be prepared quickly with simple ingredients. Their fluffy texture and golden-brown exterior make them a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family brunch or a cozy morning at home. Topped with maple syrup, they can also be customized with various add-ins for added flavor and fun.
Berry Burst Pancakes
Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or strawberries, to the batter for a fruity twist. Serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Banana Walnut Pancakes
Mash a ripe banana and fold it into the batter along with chopped walnuts. This combination adds natural sweetness and a delightful crunch.
Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes
Incorporate applesauce and a pinch of cinnamon into the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. Top with sautéed apples and a drizzle of syrup for a comforting dish.
Nutty Granola Pancakes
Stir in your favorite granola for added texture and taste. Serve with yogurt and fruit for a balanced breakfast.
Vegan Pancakes
Substitute milk with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to create a delicious vegan version of these pancakes.
Lemon Zest Pancakes
Add lemon zest to the batter for a fresh, citrusy flavor. Pair with a fruit compote or lemon curd for an elevated breakfast experience.
