Name: The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¾ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs (separated); 2 cups buttermilk; 2 tablespoons oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·4 from 54 reviews

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If you have been searching high and low for a breakfast treat that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further because The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe brings together fluffy goodness, a subtle tang, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have you waking up excited every morning. These pancakes are the perfect way to start your day with comfort and joy, combining classic ingredients in a way that comes together effortlessly yet delivers extraordinary flavor and fluffiness.

The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Good pancakes start with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that iconic soft texture and just-right balance of sweetness and tang. These essentials come together to give your pancakes their golden color, tender crumb, and irresistible flavor.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives your pancakes structure and a tender crumb when mixed just right.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds touch of sweetness that balances the tang from the buttermilk while helping to brown the pancakes beautifully.
2 teaspoons baking powder: The magic leavening agent that helps your pancakes rise sky-high and stay fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk’s acidity to give the batter lift and a delicate crumb.
¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors so nothing tastes flat or one-dimensional.
2 large eggs (separated): Eggs enrich the batter and when whites are whipped, they add airy lightness for that perfect fluff.
2 cups buttermilk: The star ingredient that gives these pancakes their signature tang and tender texture.
2 tablespoons oil: Keeps pancakes moist and ensures a golden, non-stick exterior.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that takes these pancakes to the next level.

How to Make The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

Begin by whisking together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl—flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—to ensure even distribution. In a separate bowl or measuring jug, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks for incredible fluffiness. Then, blend the egg yolks with buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and inviting.

Step 2: Gently Fold Egg Whites Into Wet Ingredients

Take the carefully whipped egg whites and delicately fold them into your wet mixture using a rubber spatula. This step is crucial for maintaining that light, airy texture that lifts these from ordinary to outstanding.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Here’s a golden rule: do NOT overmix—the batter should have lumps. Those lumps translate to tender pancakes after cooking. Allow the batter to rest for 20 to 30 minutes so the flour hydrates evenly and the leavening agents activate properly.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a griddle or large skillet to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400-420°F if you have a thermometer. Spoon ¼ cupfuls of batter onto the surface. Watch closely for bubbles forming and popping on the surface—that’s your cue to flip the pancake. Cook the second side until it’s a perfect golden brown. Repeat until you’ve used all your batter, making your kitchen smell like breakfast heaven.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Fresh

Serve your pancakes immediately for the best flavor and texture. If you need to keep them warm, place the cooked pancakes on a rack inside a 100°F oven—this keeps them cozy without drying them out until everyone at the table is ready to dig in.

How to Serve The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishes, you have the power to turn these pancakes into a customizable masterpiece. Classic maple syrup drizzled generously is blissful, but fresh berries add a lovely tart pop of color and flavor. A pat of melting butter gives rich creaminess, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar can make breakfast feel a little extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair these pancakes with crispy bacon or sausage for savory contrast, or a fruit salad for a fresh, bright kick. Creamy Greek yogurt on the side can bring a tangy balance and protein boost, making this meal as wholesome as it is delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your pancakes high and layer with sweet whipped cream and sliced bananas or peaches for a beautiful brunch centerpiece. You can also experiment by folding chocolate chips or nuts into the batter before cooking. For a fun twist, serve mini pancakes skewered with fresh fruit for an interactive and elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap your pancakes tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days without losing much of their moisture or taste.

Freezing

To enjoy The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe anytime, freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. This method prevents sticking and allows you to pull out just what you need for a convenient breakfast treat, ready to reheat whenever cravings hit.

Reheating

Reheat pancakes gently in a toaster, toaster oven, or a warm skillet to refresh their golden, crispy edges. Avoid microwaving as it tends to produce a rubbery texture. Instead, a quick reheat keeps them just as lovely as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While regular milk can be a substitute, the tangy acidity of buttermilk is key for flavor and texture. If needed, mix one cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk.

Why do I need to separate and beat the egg whites?

Separating and beating egg whites adds an airy lift to the batter, resulting in pancakes that are considerably fluffier and lighter than if you mix whole eggs directly into the batter.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, making sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

How long does the batter need to rest?

Resting the batter for 20 to 30 minutes allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to start working, yielding tender pancakes with a wonderful rise.

What’s the best way to flip pancakes?

Flip pancakes gently once bubbles form and start popping on the surface. Using a thin, flexible spatula and waiting for edges to look set helps you flip without squashing those fluffy centers.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say that once you try The Best Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe, you’ll wonder how breakfast was ever satisfying without it. Its perfect balance of fluff, flavor, and that nostalgic buttermilk tang will make it your go-to weekend morning ritual. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and savor every bite of these irresistible, homemade pancakes!

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