Perfectly Fluffy Pancakes

This is your go-to homemade pancake recipe. Bookmark it for lazy mornings, leisurely brunches, or any time a warm, fluffy stack sounds correct. Made entirely from pantry staples, including plain old milk or whatever alternative dairy you keep on hand (we tested with almond milk, but oat, soy, or cashew milk will all work well), they’re quick, reliable, and always satisfying.

A few tips: The easy pancake batter comes together in minutes but needs a brief rest before hitting the griddle. Use the time to start the coffee or slice some strawberries, bananas, or peaches to serve over the top. Second, this may shock you, but don’t grease your pan; a dry, nonstick skillet or griddle is the secret to an even golden brown surface. Finally, melt your butter in a larger pan than required; after pulling it from the heat, pour in the cold milk to temper the liquid and quickly cool the melted butter.

These delicious pancakes are great as is, but they’re also a blank canvas. Add a few blueberries or chocolate chips to each as the first side cooks or dust them with cinnamon sugar. Add a dash of vanilla extract if you want them more cake-like, or bump up the salt by a half teaspoon if you prefer more savory breakfast recipes. Serve with plenty of butter, a gush of real maple syrup, and a side of crispy bacon; then squirrel away the leftovers to slather with peanut butter and jam to make PB&J pancake sandwiches.

Looking for buttermilk pancakes? Try this ‘Gourmet’ classic via the Epicurious app.