Classic American-style pancake recipe
Servings: 10 pancakes
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 3.5 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 1.24 cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tsbp melted butter
Instructions
- Sift Together Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg and then mix in the milk and melted butter.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until blended. Do not overmix; the batter should have small lumps.
- Heat Pan: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook Pancakes: Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle or pan, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides and serve hot.
- Enjoy your pancakes with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruits, or a dollop of whipped cream!
Notes
American-style pancakes, also known as flapjacks, are a quintessential part of American breakfast culture. Unlike their European counterparts, which are often thinner and more crepe-like, American pancakes are notably thick and fluffy. This characteristic fluffiness is achieved through the use of baking powder in the batter, which acts as a leavening agent, causing the pancakes to rise and puff up during cooking. They are larger in diameter but still wonderfully light in texture.
A staple in American diners and households, these pancakes are not only a breakfast item but also a canvas for creativity. Toppings can range from the classic maple syrup and butter to more elaborate combinations like blueberries, bananas, chocolate chips, or even bacon bits. Served often in stacks, these pancakes are a comforting, hearty meal, embodying the spirit of American simplicity and abundance. Their versatility and ease of preparation have made them a beloved choice for breakfast and brunch gatherings across the United States.
- Avoid flipping pancakes multiple times for a more fluffy texture. You'll know when the bottom is done cooking when you see lots of bubbles appear at the top and the edges of the top start to cook.
- Pancakes will tend to cook faster as your pan heads up, so the first pancake may take longer, but shorten the cooking time after your first pour for subsequent pancakes to avoid burning them!