How to Cook Pancakes from Scratch

Pancakes are a timeless breakfast favorite that can be easily made from scratch, providing a delicious and customizable start to your day. Knowing how to cook pancakes from scratch is a great way to control the ingredients, adjust the flavors, and ensure your pancakes are fresh and fluffy. Whether you’re looking for a traditional, gluten-free, or dairy-free option, this post will guide you through simple steps and provide you with three tasty recipes.

1. Why Cooking Pancakes from Scratch is Worth It

Learning how to cook pancakes from scratch offers numerous benefits. Not only is it incredibly simple, but it also allows you to avoid preservatives and additives often found in pre-made pancake mixes. With just a few basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk, you can create pancakes that are perfectly tailored to your taste.

Cooking from scratch also gives you the freedom to experiment with flavors and ingredients, ensuring you get exactly what you want every time.

2. Essential Ingredients for Pancakes from Scratch

When making pancakes from scratch, there are a few basic ingredients you’ll need. These items are commonly found in your pantry and can be used for various other recipes as well:

All-purpose flour: The main base for traditional pancakes.
Baking powder: Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
Sugar: For sweetness (adjust to your preference).
Salt: Enhances flavor.
Eggs: Provides structure.
Milk: The liquid that binds the ingredients together.
Butter (or oil): Adds richness and moisture.

These simple ingredients can be used in various recipes and can be adjusted to meet dietary preferences, whether you’re following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet.

3. Simple Steps on How to Cook Pancakes from Scratch

Here’s a straightforward guide on how to cook pancakes from scratch in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients Make sure you have everything ready before starting. Measure your ingredients to ensure smooth preparation.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter (or oil) until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Heat the Pan Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Once the pan is hot, you’re ready to cook.

Step 6: Cook the Pancakes Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on both sides.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Serve your pancakes warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

4. Pancake Recipes for Every Diet

Here are three delicious pancake recipes to suit different dietary needs, all made from scratch:

Traditional Pancake Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until combined.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease with butter or oil.
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form. Flip and cook until golden brown.
Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Gluten-Free Pancake Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup gluten-free flour blend
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease with oil.
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
Serve with your favorite gluten-free toppings and enjoy!

Dairy-Free Pancake Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, almond milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease with oil.
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Serve with your favorite dairy-free toppings and enjoy!

Final Thoughts: Master the Art of Pancakes from Scratch

Learning how to cook pancakes from scratch is a simple and rewarding skill that can be customized to suit any dietary need. By following these easy recipes and using basic ingredients, you can enjoy fresh, homemade pancakes every time. Whether you choose a traditional version, a gluten-free alternative, or a dairy-free option, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious breakfast that fits your preferences. Happy cooking!