Fluffy Homemade Pancakes – Easy, Golden, and Perfect Every Time

There’s something so comforting about a stack of fluffy homemade pancakes on a lazy morning.

Whether it’s Sunday brunch with family or a quick weekday treat, these pancakes never disappoint.

With simple pantry ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up golden, soft pancakes that taste like they’re straight from your favorite diner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra fluffy texture – Thanks to just the right ratio of flour, baking powder, and milk.

Basic ingredients – No buttermilk, no fancy tools, just pantry staples.

Ready in 20 minutes – From mixing to flipping to your breakfast plate.

Perfectly customizable – Add blueberries, chocolate chips, or cinnamon anytime.

Makes the morning feel special – Even if it’s a Tuesday.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

All-purpose flour: The base of the batter, giving structure and softness.

Baking powder: The magic behind those airy, fluffy stacks.

Salt + sugar: A perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Egg: Binds the batter and adds richness.

Whole milk: Creates a smooth batter and tender crumb.

Melted butter: Adds buttery flavor and keeps pancakes moist.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Don’t overmix the batter – A few lumps are totally fine and actually help with fluffiness.

Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking – This activates the leavening.

Use a nonstick skillet or griddle for best results and even browning.

Wipe or re-grease your pan between batches to prevent sticking or burning.

Keep pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while cooking in batches.

How to Make Fluffy Homemade Pancakes

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

This helps ensure even mixing and a light texture.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry mix.

Add the egg, milk, and melted butter to the well.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

Gently whisk everything together just until combined.

The batter should be slightly lumpy. Let it rest for 5 minutes while your pan heats.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Place a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add a little vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet.

Let it cook until bubbles form on top and the edges look set, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Flip and Finish

Flip the pancake carefully and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until golden brown on both sides.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with butter, powdered sugar, and pure maple syrup.

Add fresh fruit or whipped cream if you like!

What to Serve It With

Crispy bacon or sausage links

Scrambled or fried eggs

Fresh berries or banana slices

Coffee, orange juice, or a matcha latte

Variations / Substitutions

Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk and plant-based butter.

Add flavor: Stir in cinnamon, vanilla extract, or lemon zest.

Mix-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, blueberries, or chopped nuts.

Make it savory: Omit sugar and top with fried eggs and herbs.

Whole grain: Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm in a toaster, microwave, or skillet until heated through.

Freezer: Stack pancakes between layers of parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat straight from frozen.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best used fresh, but you can mix dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking.

Why is my pancake batter lumpy?
That’s okay! Overmixing creates tough pancakes, so a few lumps are good.

Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, try using a flax egg or egg replacer for a vegan version.

Why are my pancakes flat?
Check your baking powder is fresh.

Also, don’t overmix and let the batter rest before cooking.

Can I make mini pancakes?
Absolutely! Just use 1–2 tablespoons of batter and cook for less time.

How do I keep pancakes warm for a crowd?
Place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.

What’s the best pan to use?
A nonstick skillet or cast iron griddle gives the best golden crust.

Final Thoughts

These fluffy homemade pancakes are a forever favorite in my kitchen.

They’re everything I want in a breakfast: soft, golden, buttery, and endlessly customizable.

Whether you’re serving a big brunch or just treating yourself, this easy recipe brings joy to the table every single time.