Print

Best Fluffy Pancakes: Thick, Light, and Easy Homemade Recipe

Close-up of a stack of three incredibly fluffy pancakes, cut in half to show the airy, porous interior texture.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn how to make the best fluffy pancakes from scratch. This recipe delivers thick, light, and airy pancakes perfect for your weekend brunch or any morning comfort food craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for the griddle
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This dry mix is key for light, airy pancakes.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a whisk or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing develops gluten and makes your pancakes tough instead of fluffy.
  4. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the leavening agents to activate, helping you make tall pancakes from scratch.
  5. Heat a lightly buttered griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. The griddle is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  6. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
  7. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
  8. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Serve your perfectly soft pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For extra thick fluffy pancakes, use slightly less buttermilk or let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 2 cups of regular milk with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • Keep cooked pancakes warm in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.

Nutrition