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The Best Thick Fluffy Pancakes From Scratch

A stack of three perfectly golden brown, fluffy pancakes sitting on a white plate.

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Learn how to make incredibly thick, light, and airy pancakes every time. This buttermilk recipe guarantees perfectly soft, tall pancakes for your next weekend brunch.

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. Gently mix them together using 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 pancakes fluffy.
  5. Heat a large griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray. The griddle is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  6. Pour 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. If you want tall pancakes, avoid spreading the batter.
  7. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You know it is time to flip when 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 longer.
  • 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.
  • Use a medium heat setting. Too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks, preventing that melt in your mouth breakfast texture.

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