Beginner's Guide to Homemade Pancakes

Heavenly Home Cooking

Pancakes

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Making homemade pancakes requires just a few simple ingredients. You probably have most of these in your refrigerator or pantry right now. Read on to learn about these ingredients.

Basic Pancake Ingredients

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Flour

All pancakes start with flour. White all-purpose is most commonly used. You can also use self-rising or gluten-free flour.

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Leavening Agent

A leavening agent is the ingredient that makes the pancakes rise. For many recipes baking powder is used. Some recipes also use a combination of buttermilk and baking soda. Yeast is also used in some recipes.

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Salt

This humble ingredient is the key to enhancing the flavor of your pancakes, so don't omit it! Whatever flavors you have going on, salt will make them shine.

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Milk

Most basic pancake recipes include milk. It adds flavor and richness. You can substitute non-dairy options like nut or soy milk. Buttermilk is sometimes used in conjunction with baking soda as a leavening agent.

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Eggs

Eggs are a common ingredient in homemade pancakes, but, believe it or not, they're not strictly necessary. Don't omit them, but you can substitute 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt or 3 tablespoons of nut butter per egg.

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Fat

Fat gives the pancakes a tender crumb. Without it, the pancakes will turn out dry and soak up too much syrup. There are many options, but we prefer melted butter. You can also use vegetable oil, coconut oil, or shortening.

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It takes just a few simple steps to make homemade pancakes. Read on to learn how easy these pancakes are to make!

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Step 1

Use a fine mesh strainer to sift flour then measure out 1-1/2 cup.

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Step 2

Add baking powder and salt. If using self-rising flour, you can omit this step.

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Step 3

Mix thoroughly with a wire whisk, then set aside.

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Step 4

Add milk, egg, and melted butter to a blender and blend on low or you can add them to a bowl and whisk.

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Step 5

Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. It's okay if a few lumps remain. Set batter aside to rest.

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Step 6

Add butter to a griddle or large skillet and heat over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of batter to make one pancake. Repeat to fill griddle's cooking surface.

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Step 7

If using add-ins like chocolate chips or sliced bananas, place them on top of the uncooked side of the pancake while pancakes are cooking.

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Step 8

Cook until bubbles form and pop on the surface of the batter, about 3-4 minutes. Then flip and cook the other side until browned. Serve with warm syrup.

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Chocolate chips Chopped nuts Seeds Chopped fresh or dried fruit Sprinkles Chopped candy bars

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Enjoy!

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