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Thick Fluffy Pancakes from Scratch

A close-up stack of four golden brown, incredibly fluffy pancakes on a white plate.

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Learn how to make the best fluffy pancakes that are thick, light, and airy every time. This easy homemade recipe guarantees perfectly soft breakfast favorites.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons butter for cooking

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a whisk or spatula just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing develops gluten and makes pancakes tough.
  4. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the baking powder and soda to activate, which creates those tall pancakes.
  5. Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray. The griddle is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  6. Pour the batter onto the hot griddle, using about 1/4 cup for each pancake. You want thick fluffy pancakes, so avoid spreading the batter thin.
  7. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You know it is time to flip when bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
  8. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings for a melt in your mouth breakfast experience.

Notes

  • For extra height, separate the eggs. Whisk the yolks into the buttermilk mixture, and whip the egg whites to soft peaks before gently folding them into the final batter.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 2 cups of regular milk with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • Keep finished pancakes warm in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while you cook the remaining batter.

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