How to Make Perfect Pancakes Every Time

In today's busy world, pancakes remain a beloved breakfast favorite that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy on a weekday morning or something special to celebrate a weekend, homemade pancakes are always a hit! This article will guide you through the process of making delicious pancakes from scratch. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these fluffy pancakes not only taste great but can also be customized according to your preferences.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups (about 400g) all-purpose flour
4 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
3 tbsp vegetable oil or butter

Instructions

To start: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Next, add the eggs to the dry ingredients and mix again. Gradually stir in the milk until the batter is smooth but still somewhat thick - it should have the consistency of heavy cream.
Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before you begin cooking; this allows the baking powder to activate properly.

Cooking pancakes: Using a ladle, pour about 2-3 tablespoons of batter onto the hot skillet. Let each pancake cook until small bubbles form on top and the bottom turns golden brown. Flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook for another minute or two.

Once they've reached this stage, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Continue cooking until you've made enough for your desired number of servings - typically 8-12 pancakes will make one batch sufficient for a family-sized breakfast or brunch.

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe yields approximately 8-12 pancakes, with a total cooking time ranging from 15 to 20 minutes. Depending on your skillet's size and the number of pancakes you want to make at once, this timeframe may vary slightly.

Customizing Your Pancakes

One of the best things about making pancakes is that you can easily tailor them to suit different taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for customization:

Add 1/4 cup chocolate chips, mixed berries, or chopped nuts right into the batter before cooking.
Swap out some of the flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour if you're looking to increase your intake of fiber and nutrients.
If dairy isn't suitable for you, opt for plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk instead.

These simple changes can turn basic pancakes into a delightful treat that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. For those seeking a more savory option, consider serving your pancakes with maple syrup on the side along with a couple of eggs and a slice of ham for an extra boost of flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover pancakes from this batch, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or even frozen for longer preservation. To reheat them, simply place the pancake slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat until warm throughout - avoid overcooking which could result in dryness.

Alternatively, you can also freeze your pancakes raw (without syrup) so that when you're ready to eat them, all you need to do is thaw and reheat. This method helps maintain the texture and moisture of the pancake.

Conclusion

Pancakes are more than just a weekend treat; they offer convenience during busy weekday mornings too. By following these simple steps using readily available ingredients, anyone can whip up a batch of delicious pancakes in no time. Customize according to your liking and enjoy this versatile breakfast option whenever you want!