Basic Buttermilk Pancakes

There’s nothing quite like a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes to start your day off right. My Basic Buttermilk Pancakes are light, airy, and oh-so-delicious. With a hint of tang from the buttermilk and just the right amount of sweetness, these pancakes are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging yourself, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on a busy morning while still being impressive enough for a lazy weekend brunch.

Why It’s My Go-To

These Basic Buttermilk Pancakes have become my go-to recipe over the years for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples. Second, the consistency is always on point—light and fluffy without being dry. Lastly, they can be customized in countless ways, making them perfect for any palate. Topped with fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or simply drizzled with maple syrup, these pancakes are a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

What’s in the Bowl

To bring these Basic Buttermilk Pancakes to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 200g (7oz) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Spray oil for greasing
• Optional toppings: blueberries, strawberries, banana slices, chocolate chips
• Maple syrup for serving
• A knob of butter for cooking

Must-Have Equipment

Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have the following equipment handy:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Griddle or frying pan: A non-stick surface works best for pancakes.
• Spatula: For flipping those pancakes with ease.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!

Basic Buttermilk Pancakes Cooking Guide

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect stack of Basic Buttermilk Pancakes.

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt until well mixed. This helps to ensure an even rise when you cook the pancakes.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Whisk the mixture until it is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently stir the ingredients together until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.

Step 4: Prepare Your Cooking Surface

Heat your griddle or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with spray oil or a knob of butter. You want the surface to be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the pan.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. If you’re adding fruit or chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top of the batter now. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the griddle and keep warm while you continue with the remaining batter.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Stack your pancakes high on a plate, add a knob of butter on top, and drizzle with maple syrup. Feel free to top them with your favorite fruits or chocolate chips for an extra special touch!

Make It Fit Your Plan

These Basic Buttermilk Pancakes can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs or preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk with almond milk or oat milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar to create a similar tangy effect.
• Low Sugar: Reduce the amount of maple syrup you use for serving, or use sugar-free syrup alternatives.
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients to increase the protein content.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

When making Basic Buttermilk Pancakes, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough pancakes. Mix until just combined.
• Not preheating the pan: A properly heated surface is crucial for fluffy pancakes.
• Using cold buttermilk: Make sure your buttermilk is at room temperature for the best results.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes helps the pancakes rise better.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it can happen!), here’s how to store them:

• Cool the pancakes completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, pop them in the toaster, microwave, or oven until warmed through.

Ask & Learn

Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken overnight.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 2 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I add flavors to my pancake batter?

Absolutely! Consider adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even cocoa powder to the batter for a flavor twist.

How can I ensure my pancakes are fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the batter, and allow it to rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the gluten relax and creates lighter pancakes.

Don’t Miss These

Make sure you check out these delicious recipes to complement your Basic Buttermilk Pancakes:

• Blueberry Pancakes
• Banana Pancakes
• Vegan Pancakes
• Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the complete guide to making Basic Buttermilk Pancakes, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Whether you choose to keep it classic or add your own twist, these pancakes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen and savor each bite of these fluffy, comforting treats. Happy cooking!