Nothing beats a breakfast of fluffy pancakes to start your day. This simple pancake recipe requires no fancy ingredients or laborious steps and ensures soft, light pancakes, perfect for a quick breakfast.

This guide will teach you how to make pancakes from scratch using basic kitchen ingredients, how to make the best pancake recipe for fluffy, fail-proof pancakes, and how to correct common mistakes. We will also discuss the storage of pancakes for the short and long term and use on weekends or a busy schedule, with delicious pancake topping ideas for every taste. Let’s get started!

Easy Homemade Pancake Recipe—Benefits

This simple pancake recipe uses everyday ingredients—flour, baking powder, sugar, egg, and milk—to create soft and fluffy pancakes without buttermilk or baking soda. What do you get after following this recipe?

• If you don’t have buttermilk? Regular milk works perfectly.

• If you don’t have baking soda, you can use just baking powder for the perfect rise.

• It takes less than twenty minutes to prepare.

• You can add chocolate chips, fruit, or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients Required for the Best Pancakes

You only need 7 basic ingredients for this everyday pancake recipe:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour—the base for light, fluffy pancakes.
• 3 ½ tsp baking powder—Ensures a perfect rise (no baking soda needed).
• 1 tbsp. sugar—just enough sweetness (adjust to taste).
• ½ tsp salt—Balances flavors.
• 1 ¼ cups milk—Whole milk makes them extra rich.
• 1 egg—Adds structure and fluffiness.
• 3 tbsp. melted butter (or oil)—Keeps them moist.
• 1 tsp vanilla essence to add flavor.

Optional Mix-Ins & Toppings:

• Blueberries (for blueberry pancakes)
• Chocolate chips
• Banana slices
• Cinnamon or nutmeg
• Lemon zest (for lemon and sugar pancakes)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pancakes from Scratch

All basic ingredients are easily available in the kitchen. Now start to make it in easy steps. 

Step 1. Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine 1 ½ cups flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 3 ½ tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt in a bowl and whisk to combine. Ensures even rising and no lumps.

Step 2. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine 1 egg, 3 tablespoons melted butter, 1 ¼ cups milk, and 1 tsp vanilla (if using). Mix until it’s smooth.

Step 3. Make the Pancake Batter

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir just until combined—do not overmix! 

If batter is overmixed, pancakes are hard.

Step 4. Prepare the Ideal Pancakes

Now turn the heat up to medium on a griddle or nonstick skillet. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form (2-3 minutes), then flip and cook 1-2 minutes more. While the rest is cooking, keep the pancakes warm in an oven set to 200°F (95°C).

Causes of Non-Fluffy Pancakes and How to Fix Them

If you see that pancakes are not fluffy enough,. It has several reasons, but don’t worry, we will also discuss how to fix unfluffy pancakes.

Flat, Dense Pancakes

If you use overmixed batter or expired baking powder. Then you will get flat pancakes. So, you should mix gently and check the baking powder’s freshness.

Burnt Outside, Raw Inside

If the heat is too high, then the batter will cook from the outside and will not properly cook from the inside. So, always cook batter on medium heat for even browning.

Sticky or Gummy Texture

Avoid using too much liquid or overmixing the batter, this will turns into gummy texture. To ensure the best results, measure your ingredients accurately and mix them just until they are combined.

Pancakes Stick to Pan

If there is not enough grease or the pan is too hot, the batter will stick to the pan. So lightly butter the pan between batches.

Best Pancake Toppings & Serving Ideas

Take your fluffy pancakes to the next level with these easy pancake toppings, including classic and healthy toppings. 

1. Classic Toppings

Maple syrup is the all-time favorite. Fresh berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Banana slices and honey make a naturally sweet combination. Lemon and sugar provide a simple, zesty twist. Chocolate sauce and whipped cream—dessert for breakfast!. Add vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

2. Healthy Toppings

Nut butter, which includes almonds and peanuts, provides protein. Chopped nuts and honey are crunchy and sweet. Greek yogurt with fruit compote is creamy and tangy.

Best Way to Store Pancakes to Keep Them Fresh

Nothing beats fluffy, homemade pancakes! If you have leftovers, proper storage keeps them fresh and ready for quick breakfasts. Here’s how to store pancakes effectively:

1. Room Temperature (For Immediate Use)

If you want to serve within 1-2 hours, then stack pancakes on a plate. Cover loosely with a clean kitchen towel or foil. Keeps them warm without getting soggy. Avoid plastic wrap—it traps steam and makes pancakes rubbery.

2. Refrigerator (Up to 2 Days)

If you want to enjoy fluffy pancakes for the next-day breakfast, then let the pancakes cool completely (to prevent condensation). Place in an airtight container with paper towels between layers. Store in the fridge for 1-2 days.

Reheating Tip:

• Microwave (10-15 sec per pancake)
• Toaster (for crisp edges)
• Oven (300°F for 5-10 mins)

Freezing is the best way to keep pancakes fresh for weeks while maintaining their fluffy texture.

The Right Way to Freeze Pancakes

Step 1: Cool pancakes completely (prevents ice crystals).
Step 2: Layer with either parchment paper or wax paper (prevents sticking).
Step 3: Place in a freezer bag or an airtight container.
Step 4: Label with the date & freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Frozen Pancakes

If you would like a convenient option, you can place frozen pancakes directly in the oven for one or two cycles to warm them up effectively. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5 to 8 minutes, allowing it to reach the ideal temperature for cooking. Once preheated, arrange the pancakes on a baking sheet and cook each pancake for about 20 to 30 seconds, ensuring they are heated through and ready to enjoy. It can be used as frozen food recipe for hustle days.  

How to Store Pancake Batter 

If you find yourself with leftover pancake batter, you can certainly store it for later use. To ensure its freshness, transfer the batter into an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best to use the stored batter within 24 to 48 hours for optimal quality. Before using it again, give the batter a good stir, as it tends to thicken over time. 

If you notice it’s particularly thick, feel free to add a small splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. However, it’s important to note that you should not freeze pancake batter, as freezing can negatively impact its texture and the rising power of the baking agents, resulting in pancakes that don’t turn out as fluffy as you’d like. So, make sure to keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to whip up another batch!

Pro Tips to Keep Pancakes Fluffy After Storing

✔ Never stack hot pancakes—they’ll steam and get soggy.
✔ Use parchment paper between layers—prevents sticking.
✔ Reheat with a damp paper towel (microwave trick for moisture).
✔ Freeze individually first (for easier portioning).

Conclusion

With this fluffy pancake recipe, you’ll never need a pancake mix again! These fluffy pancakes are quick to make, foolproof, and endlessly customizable. You can enjoy fluffy, homemade-quality pancakes anytime by making them on weekends in a big batch and storing them in the freezer. 

Simply reheat & top with maple syrup, fruit, or Nutella. Now you’re set for perfect pancakes every time!

FAQS

Can I make pancakes without eggs?

Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tbsp. flax + 3 tbsp. water) or mashed banana.

How do I make vegan pancakes?

Swap milk for almond/oat milk, butter for oil, and egg for a flax egg.

Can I use water instead of milk?

Yes, but milk makes pancakes richer. For best results, stick with milk or a milk alternative.

Why aren’t my pancakes fluffy?

Overmixing, expired baking powder, or not letting the batter rest can cause flat pancakes.

Can I freeze leftover pancakes?

Yes! Layer between parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster.

What’s the best pan for pancakes?

A non-stick skillet or electric griddle works best for even cooking.

Can I make gluten-free pancakes?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and check that the baking powder is gluten-free.