Step by Step Guide to Making the Best Fluffy Pancakes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3: Combine and Rest
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Stir just until combined a few lumps are okay.
- Tip: Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the baking powder to activate and creates fluffier pancakes.
4: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non stick skillet over medium heat and grease lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form, then flip.
- Cook for another minute or until both sides are golden brown.
5: Serve and Enjoy
- Repeat with the rest of the batter and keep pancakes warm in the oven if needed.
- Top with maple syrup, whipped cream, fruit, or your favorite toppings.

Chef’s Secrets to Pancake Perfection
Why Resting the Batter Matters
If you want *truly fluffy pancakes*, don’t skip the rest time. Even 5-10 minutes allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to begin activating. This creates bubbles and air pockets that give the pancakes a beautiful rise.
- Don’t overmix: Lumps in the batter are fine. Overmixing activates gluten, making pancakes chewy.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix more smoothly and cook evenly.
- Medium heat is best: Too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low and you won’t get that golden crust.
Fluffy Pancakes vs. Other Breakfast Staples
What makes these pancakes better than waffles, crepes, or French toast? Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide when to make each:
Dish | Main Texture | Prep Time | Best Use |
---|---|---|---|
Fluffy Pancakes | Light, airy, golden | 30 min total | Everyday breakfast, brunch |
Crepes | Thin, soft, delicate | 35 min | Sweet or savory fillings |
Cinnamon Rolls | Soft, rich, gooey | 1-2 hrs | Special breakfasts, holidays |
Basic Pancakes | Soft but thinner | 20-25 min | Quick breakfast |
Egg Muffins | Firm, protein packed | 30 min | Meal prep, low carb |