Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a comforting, timeless breakfast that brings pure joy with every bite, this Vanilla Pancakes Recipe is exactly what you need. Fluffy, tender, and subtly sweet with a warm hint of vanilla, these pancakes feel like a gentle morning hug. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or indulging yourself, this recipe balances simplicity and flavor beautifully, turning an everyday morning into something instantly special and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun and key to nailing the perfect pancake texture and flavor. Each element from the fluffy flour base to the rich butter and aromatic vanilla plays a crucial role in making this Vanilla Pancakes Recipe shine.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure that holds these pancakes together with a tender crumb.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to enhance the flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: The rising agent that makes these pancakes beautifully fluffy and light.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the richness and fluffiness.
- 1 1/4 cups milk: Hydrates the flour and creates the perfect batter consistency for a tender pancake.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking): Adds richness and a subtle buttery flavor that makes each bite delightful.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: The star flavor in this Vanilla Pancakes Recipe, infusing the batter with irresistible warmth and aroma.
How to Make Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. This even distribution ensures every pancake rises perfectly and tastes balanced, so don’t skip this crucial step.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat your egg and then stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. The melted butter adds a silky texture while that burst of vanilla is what makes this recipe truly special.
Step 3: Make the Batter
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps will remain but that’s what keeps the pancakes light and fluffy.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter. This prepares the perfect cooking surface to achieve golden edges and a tender inside.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Watch for bubbles forming on the surface and edges setting, then flip gently and cook the other side until golden brown. Each pancake should be a perfect little round of fluffy goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Stack your warm pancakes high, drizzle with syrup, and add your favorite toppings. Whether it’s creamy butter, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this Vanilla Pancakes Recipe is your canvas for breakfast creativity.
How to Serve Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your vanilla pancakes instantly. Traditional butter and maple syrup are always winners, but fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar add texture and flavor bursts that make every forkful exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair your pancakes with crispy bacon or savory sausage for a well-rounded breakfast. A fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt also complements the sweetness of these pancakes beautifully and brings balance to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not layer your pancakes with alternating spreads of Nutella or cream cheese and fresh fruit for a stunning stack? Or fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter for added texture. Even folding in a little cinnamon or citrus zest can add a twist that keeps the recipe feeling fresh and fun every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made more pancakes than you can eat right away, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them from sticking together, separate layers with parchment paper or wax paper.
Freezing
Vanilla pancakes freeze beautifully. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy homemade pancakes any time without starting from scratch — just reheat as needed.
Reheating
Reheat your pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave. The toaster crisps them up nicely, bringing back the golden exterior, while the microwave is great for a quick warm-up. They’ll taste almost as fresh as when you first made them!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour in this Vanilla Pancakes Recipe?
Yes, while all-purpose flour is ideal for a light texture, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly denser.
What can I do if I don’t have baking powder?
If you don’t have baking powder, you can make a substitute using baking soda and cream of tartar. Mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Can I make these pancakes vegan?
Certainly! Swap the egg with a flax egg or mashed banana, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with a vegan alternative. The recipe will still turn out delicious with a few simple tweaks.
How do I prevent my pancakes from being tough?
The key is not to overmix your batter and to cook pancakes over medium heat. Gentle stirring and moderate cooking temperatures keep them tender and fluffy.
Can I add other flavors to this Vanilla Pancakes Recipe?
Absolutely! Try folding in blueberries, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fun twist. Vanilla is a wonderful base that pairs easily with many flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about starting your day with a stack of homemade pancakes, especially when they’re made with this delightful Vanilla Pancakes Recipe. It’s simple, approachable, and satisfies just about every craving for fluffy, sweet goodness. I promise once you try it, it will become a cherished part of your breakfast routine, perfect for everyday mornings or special weekend brunches alike.
Print
Vanilla Pancakes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Fluffy and classic vanilla pancakes made from scratch, perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch. These easy-to-make pancakes are light, buttery, and infused with pure vanilla extract, served best with syrup and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Make the Batter: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine to keep the pancakes fluffy.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the heated pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stack the cooked pancakes on a plate. Drizzle with syrup and add your favorite toppings such as butter, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flavor.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep pancakes fluffy and tender.
- You can substitute milk with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Make sure the pan is properly heated before pouring batter to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
- Use a non-stick skillet or griddle for best results.
- Add fresh fruits like blueberries or bananas into the batter for a fruity twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
