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Perfectly Soft and Airy Breakfast Pancakes Recipe

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4.3 from 3 reviews

This recipe for Perfectly Soft and Airy Breakfast Pancakes offers a fluffy, tender texture with a subtle sweetness and rich vanilla aroma. Made with simple pantry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, and milk, these pancakes are easy to prepare and ideal for a cozy morning meal. The batter rests briefly to ensure a light, airy consistency, and cooking them on a lightly greased skillet yields golden, fluffy pancakes perfect for stacking and topping with your favorite accompaniments.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings (about 6 pancakes)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold together just until combined. A few lumps are totally fine—do not overmix to keep pancakes tender.
  4. Let the Batter Rest: Allow the batter to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This hydrates the flour and helps the pancakes become airy and fluffy.
  5. Preheat & Grease the Pan: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over low to medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Cook the Pancakes: Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface, spreading gently into a round shape. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set. Flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Serve & Enjoy: Stack the pancakes while warm and serve with maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or any preferred toppings.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough pancakes; some lumps are fine.
  • Resting the batter is key for fluffiness as it allows the flour to hydrate and the leavening agents to activate.
  • Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned griddle for easiest flipping and even cooking.
  • If using plant-based milk, choose one with a mild flavor to maintain the pancake’s delicate taste.
  • You can keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (about 200°F/93°C) while finishing the batch.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American