Wake up to the ultimate breakfast comfort with these Fluffiest Pancakes Ever—light, buttery, and perfectly golden every time. This easy homemade pancake recipe uses simple pantry staples and a touch of ground flaxseed for extra texture and richness. Whether it’s a slow Sunday morning or a cozy brunch, these pancakes rise tall and soft with just the right amount of sweetness.
Made with all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a hint of vanilla, they cook up tender on the inside and lightly crisp on the edges. A splash of milk and melted butter gives that classic diner-style flavor, while the water helps you find your perfect batter consistency.
Serve them stacked high with warm maple syrup, fresh berries, or a pat of butter that melts right down the sides. Once you try these, you’ll never go back to boxed mix again.
This recipe can also be adapted to increase the protein content as well. (Which is always an added bonus!)
Why you’ll love this recipe!
What ingredients do I need?
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for structure and tenderness.
- Baking Powder: Gives that signature height and airy texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Ground Flaxseed: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and extra fiber.
- Salt: Balances flavor and enhances sweetness.
- Egg: Helps bind and add richness.
- Whole Milk: For moisture and that soft crumb.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Butter (melted): Keeps pancakes tender with a rich, buttery finish.
- Water: Adjusts batter consistency—thicker for cakey pancakes, thinner for lighter ones.
Recipe Variations
- Blueberry Pancakes: Fold in 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries.
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Banana Pancakes: Mash 1 ripe banana into the wet ingredients for extra moisture and natural sweetness.
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Swap cottage cheese for ricotta and add 1 tsp lemon zest.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a hearty texture.
Pro Tips
- Don’t overmix the batter. A few small lumps are fine—this helps keep your pancakes light.
- Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking to activate the baking powder and thicken slightly.
- Medium-low heat is key. It gives you that golden crust without burning.
- Use fresh baking powder. This is what gives you that extra lift and fluff.
- Grease lightly. Too much butter or oil on the pan can prevent even browning.
Can I Substitute?
Yes! Like always though, any substitutions can change the final texture and/or flavor of the recipe.
- Dairy-Free: Use oat milk or almond milk, and replace butter with coconut oil.
- Egg-Free: Substitute 1 “flax egg” (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water).
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Sugar Substitute: Swap sugar for honey or maple syrup, adjusting the liquid slightly if needed.
Protein Rich Variation
To make these pancakes protein-packed without changing the texture:
- Reduce milk to 1 cup.
- Add ½ cup cottage cheese to the wet ingredients.
- Blend all wet ingredients together before adding to the dry.
This version turns your pancakes extra creamy, slightly tangy, and high in protein—perfect for a more filling breakfast!
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Lay pancakes in a single layer, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Toast in a toaster or warm in the oven/microwave until heated through.
But, I Still Have A Few Questions…
Why are my pancakes flat?
Check your baking powder—it might be old. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine just before cooking. In fact, I like to prep bags of just the dry ingredients to grab for an easy weekend breakfast.
How do I make them extra fluffy?
Letting the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking allows the baking powder to activate.
Can I make these without butter?
Yes, replace butter with coconut oil or neutral oil like avocado oil.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
Let’s engage!
Make sure to tag @thehomechefmomma on Instagram or Facebook, and leave a review or comment if you make these. I always get so excited to see your creations, variations of the recipe, and feedback! Just remember to be kind in your comments, there is still a person behind this screen! 🙂
The Fluffiest Pancakes Ever
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c. All purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 c. whole milk
- 2-3 tbsp water more or less depending on consistency desired
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together dry ingredients.
- Whisk together egg, vanilla, and milk in another bowl.
- Add to the dry ingredients. Add melted butter and 3 tbsp of water(if needed) and stir together. Add more water as needed for desired consistency.
- Heat a skillet, or griddle, over low-medium heat. Lightly butter the pan and pour pancake batter in the size of your choosing onto the pan (I usually use a 1/3 c. measuring cup to portion). Flip when the tops have bubbles and the bottom is browned. (About 2-3 minutes per side).
- Repeat with remaining batter. Adjust heat lower if cooking too quickly, or up if not cooking through enough.
Notes
- Reduce milk to 1 cup.
- Add ½ cup cottage cheese to the wet ingredients.
- Blend all wet ingredients together before adding to the dry.
This version turns your pancakes extra creamy, slightly tangy, and high in protein—perfect for a more filling breakfast!
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Nutritional Content Disclaimer
I choose not to include nutritional information with my recipes, as these values can be calculated from the ingredients provided. With my background as a pediatric nurse practitioner and my own family experience with disordered eating, I understand how focusing on numbers can affect our relationship with food. My philosophy is that all foods have a place—sweet, savory, nourishing, or indulgent. I aim to share recipes that support a healthy, joyful approach to eating. My hope is that this space also encourages a balanced, healthy relationship with food for you and your family too.