There’s nothing quite like a warm stack of fluffy pancakes to start the day.
These fluffy vanilla pancakes are a favorite in my kitchen — simple, comforting, and always satisfying.
Whether I’m treating myself on a slow Sunday morning or whipping up breakfast for friends, this recipe never lets me down.
Light, tender, and just sweet enough, these pancakes taste like love on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Soft and pillowy texture – thanks to the perfect ratio of flour and milk
Subtle vanilla flavor – just enough to shine without overpowering
Quick to make – from start to finish in under 30 minutes
One bowl, minimal cleanup – easy enough for weekday breakfasts
Customizable – dress it up with fruit, chocolate chips, or syrup
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
All-purpose flour: The base of the pancake, giving structure and softness
Baking powder: Helps them rise and stay fluffy
Egg: Adds richness and binds the ingredients
Milk: Use whole or 2% for best texture
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor
Melted butter: Makes the pancakes tender and rich
Sugar & salt: For balanced taste
Butter-flavored cooking spray: Keeps pancakes from sticking without greasiness
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overmix the batter – a few lumps are okay and help keep pancakes tender
Let the batter rest – even just 5 minutes helps it thicken and rise better
Preheat your pan fully – medium heat is ideal for golden-brown pancakes
Use a measuring cup to portion evenly – about ¼ cup per pancake
Keep finished pancakes warm in a low oven if cooking in batches
How to Make Fluffy Vanilla Pancakes
Step 1: Mix the dry ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt into a medium bowl.
Step 2: Combine wet ingredients
Add the milk, melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the dry mix.
Whisk until just smooth — don’t overdo it. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Heat the pan
Warm a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Lightly coat with butter-flavored cooking spray.
Step 4: Cook the pancakes
Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake into the pan.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface.
Step 5: Flip and finish
Flip each pancake and cook for another minute, until golden.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
What to Serve It With
Classic maple syrup and a pat of butter
Fresh berries and whipped cream
Sliced bananas with cinnamon sugar
Greek yogurt and honey drizzle
Peanut butter and chopped nuts for a protein boost
Variations / Substitutions
Dairy-free? Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of milk and butter
Add-ins: Mix in mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or chopped nuts
Cinnamon twist: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon for extra warmth
Savory version: Skip the vanilla and sugar, add herbs and shredded cheese
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Reheat in a toaster or microwave before serving
Freeze cooked pancakes for up to 2 months – stack with parchment between each and store in a freezer bag
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine right before cooking.
Why are my pancakes flat?
Check that your baking powder is fresh and that the batter rests before cooking.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just keep the ratio the same and cook in batches.
What milk is best to use?
Whole or 2% milk gives the richest flavor and best texture, but any will work.
Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but skip the baking powder and salt.
How do I make pancakes more golden?
Preheat your pan well and avoid overcrowding.
What can I use instead of cooking spray?
Butter or oil works, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
These fluffy vanilla pancakes are a go-to breakfast treat for any day of the week.
They’re easy enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress.
With just a few pantry staples and a little love, you’ll have a breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate.
Try them once, and they’ll become your morning ritual too.
Fluffy Vanilla Pancakes
Ingredients
Method
- Sift the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt into a medium bowl.
- Whisk in the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Coat lightly with cooking spray.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake into the pan.
- Cook until bubbles form.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/fluffy-vanilla-pancakes/
