Are you tired of mediocre pancakes that turn out flat, dense, or lacking in flavor? Look no further! In this ultimate guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect buttermilk pancakes from scratch.
Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a hurried weekday, these fluffy stacks of goodness will satisfy your breakfast cravings. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Why Buttermilk Pancakes?
Buttermilk pancakes are an American classic, loved for their thick and fluffy texture and their subtly tangy flavor. While many people opt for pre-packaged mixes, making pancakes from scratch allows you to have full control over the ingredients and ensures a superior taste. Plus, it’s easier than you might think!
The Essential Ingredients
To make the best buttermilk pancakes, you’ll need a few simple pantry staples:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
The Step-by-Step Process
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making fluffy buttermilk pancakes.
Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well-combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Pour the wet mixture into the well created in the dry ingredients. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Heat a large nonstick skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes. This allows the pan to evenly distribute the heat and ensures that your pancakes cook evenly. Alternatively, you can use a cast-iron skillet for a crispier edge.
Step 4: Ladle the Batter
Using a measuring cup, ladle about ⅓ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. If you’re using a larger skillet or griddle, you can cook multiple pancakes at once, but be sure not to overcrowd the cooking surface.
Step 5: Flip and Cook
Wait for bubbles to rise to the surface of the pancake and the bottom to turn lightly browned, which usually takes about 2 to 4 minutes. Carefully flip the pancake and cook the other side until it’s golden brown. Repeat this process until all the batter is used.
Step 6: Keep Warm and Serve
As you finish cooking each batch of pancakes, transfer them to a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet and keep them warm in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that all the pancakes are served hot and maintains their fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cut the Recipe in Half?
Of course! If you’re cooking for a smaller group, you can easily cut the recipe in half. Use 1 cup + 2 tablespoons of buttermilk to achieve the right consistency.
What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
No worries! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a simple substitute. Pour 2 tablespoons + ¾ teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice into a large measuring cup. Add regular milk until you reach the 2 ¼ cup mark. Stir the mixture and let it sit for a few minutes. This homemade buttermilk substitute may be thinner than the real thing, so adjust the amount used accordingly.
Why Are My Pancakes Flat and Dense?
Flat and dense pancakes are usually the result of overmixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold them together until just combined. A few streaks of flour remaining in the batter are actually beneficial and contribute to a lighter texture.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to My Pancakes?
Absolutely! You can add up to a cup of mix-ins such as blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts. To prevent overmixing, fold them into the batter when the flour is halfway incorporated. This ensures even distribution without deflating the batter.
Can I Use This Batter to Make Waffles?
Yes, you can! While we have a separate waffle recipe, this buttermilk pancake batter can also be used to make delicious waffles. The only difference is the cooking method and the shape of the final product.
What Toppings Go Well With Buttermilk Pancakes?
The toppings are only limited by your imagination! Classic options include butter and maple syrup, but you can also get creative with whipped cream, fruit sauces, caramel sauce, or even a pancake sundae with ice cream and various toppings.
