Whip up classic pancakes right from your kitchen
There’s something comforting about a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes on your plate. Whether you like them dripping in syrup or topped with fruits and cream, homemade pancakes are always better than store-bought mixes. With the right approach, you can easily make perfect pancakes without needing a mixer or fancy tools. This simple 5-step recipe walks you through how to make pancakes from scratch using basic ingredients in your kitchen. It’s quick, beginner-friendly, and works great for any meal of the day especially lazy weekend breakfasts or quick weekday treats.
Step 1: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately for lump-free batter
Start by preparing your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together to combine the dry mix. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter or oil. Once the wet and dry ingredients are ready, slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix using a hand whisk or spatula. Don’t worry if you see small lumps overmixing can make the pancakes tough. A gentle mix is enough to bring everything together into a smooth, thick batter.
Step 2: Allow the batter to rest before cooking for fluffier pancakes
Let the pancake batter sit for about 10 to 15 minutes after mixing. This step is important, as it helps the flour absorb the liquids and gives the baking powder time to react, creating a better rise during cooking. Resting the batter also gives your pancakes a lighter, fluffier texture. During this time, you can get your pan ready by preheating it over low to medium heat and brushing it lightly with butter or oil. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. Skipping this short resting period may result in flatter pancakes that lack the desired fluff.
Step 3: Cook pancakes on medium heat until golden and airy
Once the batter has rested, ladle about 1/4 cup of batter onto your preheated pan or tawa. Let it spread naturally into a round shape. As the pancake cooks, you’ll notice bubbles forming on the surface and the edges firming up. This usually takes about 1–2 minutes. When the bubbles start to pop and the bottom turns golden, flip the pancake carefully using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes until evenly browned. Avoid pressing down on the pancake after flipping it can flatten the air pockets and reduce fluffiness. Each pancake should come out soft inside with a nice golden crust.
Step 4: Keep cooked pancakes warm and prep toppings
After cooking each pancake, place it on a plate and cover it with a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm. If you’re making a large batch, keep them in a warm oven set to about 100°C (210°F). Meanwhile, get your toppings ready. You can stick with classics like maple syrup and butter, or get creative with sliced bananas, strawberries, blueberries, yogurt, whipped cream, or nut butter. For a sweet twist, try adding chocolate chips or honey. These toppings elevate the pancakes and allow you to serve them differently every time based on your mood or ingredients on hand.
Step 5: Stack and serve hot for the best pancake experience
Once all your pancakes are ready, stack them neatly and drizzle your favorite toppings generously. Serve immediately while they’re still warm and soft. If you prefer a savory version, you can skip the sugar in the batter and top the pancakes with sautéed vegetables, cheese, or a fried egg. Pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit any taste. You can even make extra and freeze them just reheat in a toaster or pan when needed. Leftover batter can be stored in the fridge for a day, which makes breakfast prep quicker the next morning.
Create the best pancakes at home without any special tools
Making pancakes from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. This no-mixer recipe offers a reliable way to get light and fluffy pancakes every single time. With only five steps and basic ingredients, you can turn your kitchen into a pancake haven. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, homemade pancakes are always a hit. Once you try this method, you’ll never go back to boxed mixes or frozen pancakes again. Get creative with your toppings, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and enjoy the comfort of warm pancakes straight from your stove.
