Buttermilk pancakes are a deliciously tangy breakfast favorite that you can easily whip up at home. Start by mixing 1 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently, then let the batter rest for 5 minutes. Pour the batter onto a preheated skillet, cooking until bubbles form. Flip and cook until golden brown. Add your favorite toppings for a delightful twist—there's so much more to explore!
Key Takeaways
- Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 2 teaspoons baking powder in a bowl for the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk and 1 large egg until smooth.
- Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients, then let the batter rest for 5 minutes to improve texture.
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat, pour batter for each pancake, and cook until bubbles form (2-3 minutes).
- Flip pancakes and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then serve with syrup and fresh fruits.
History

When you think about buttermilk pancakes, it's easy to overlook their rich history.
These fluffy delights trace back to ancient civilizations, where fermented grains and dairy were staples. Traditionally, buttermilk was a byproduct of churning butter, and its tangy flavor became a popular ingredient in various recipes.
As settlers moved across North America, they brought this technique along, adapting it to local ingredients. By the 19th century, buttermilk pancakes became a breakfast favorite, often served with syrup or fruit.
They symbolize comfort and homeliness, reflecting a time when simple ingredients created hearty meals.
Today, you enjoy buttermilk pancakes not just for their taste but also for their connection to culinary traditions that have stood the test of time.
Recipe

Buttermilk pancakes are a breakfast classic that bring a touch of comfort to your morning routine. Fluffy and tender, these pancakes are made with buttermilk, which not only adds a delightful tang but also helps create a light texture. Perfectly paired with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or a dollop of whipped cream, they can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Making buttermilk pancakes is a simple process that can be accomplished in just a few easy steps. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry, and the cooking time is quick, making them a fantastic option for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. Once you master this basic recipe, you can start experimenting with add-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or nuts to elevate your pancake game.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Cooking spray or additional butter for the skillet
To cook the pancakes, begin by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter, mixing until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined — be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pancakes tough. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter.
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet and cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
For the best results, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking. This helps to create a smoother batter and ultimately fluffier pancakes.
If you find the batter is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or more buttermilk to reach your desired consistency. Additionally, try to keep the heat consistent; if the skillet is too hot, the pancakes may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked on the inside. Enjoy your delicious buttermilk pancakes!
Cooking Steps

To make delicious buttermilk pancakes, you need to start by gathering all your ingredients.
Once you have everything ready, mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before whisking the wet ones together.
Finally, combine both mixtures and cook them on medium heat for perfect pancakes.
Step 1. Gather All Ingredients Needed

Gathering all the ingredients needed for your buttermilk pancakes is an essential step that sets the foundation for a delicious breakfast.
You'll want to make sure you have all the essentials on hand before you start cooking. First, grab all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar. Don't forget salt for that extra flavor!
Next, gather your wet ingredients: buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. It's vital to use fresh buttermilk for that rich taste and fluffy texture. If you like, you can add vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.
Finally, keep some cooking oil or additional butter handy for the skillet. Once you've got everything ready, you'll be all set to create those mouthwatering pancakes!
Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients Thoroughly

Start by combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Measure out the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
Use a whisk to mix these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring there are no clumps. This step is essential, as it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
Make sure to break up any lumps in the flour for a smoother batter later. Once everything's well-mixed, set the bowl aside.
Step 3. Whisk Wet Ingredients Together

Whisk the wet ingredients together in a separate bowl until they're well combined and smooth.
Start by pouring in the buttermilk, which adds that signature tanginess. Next, crack in the eggs, ensuring no shell bits sneak in. Follow this with a generous drizzle of melted butter—this'll keep your pancakes moist and flavorful.
If you like a hint of sweetness, you can also add a splash of vanilla extract at this stage. As you whisk, make sure to break up any egg yolks and blend everything evenly. You want a consistent mixture that's free of lumps.
Once you've achieved that smooth texture, set the bowl aside while you prepare your dry ingredients, ready to combine them for the perfect pancake batter.
Step 4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now that you've got your wet ingredients perfectly mixed, it's time to bring them together with the dry ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, make a well in the center of your dry mixture. Pour the wet ingredients into this well, allowing the liquids to gently meet the flour mixture.
With a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are totally okay! You want to preserve that fluffy texture in your pancakes.
If the batter seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Once everything's combined, you're ready to move on to cooking your delicious buttermilk pancakes!
Step 5. Cook on Medium Heat

To achieve perfectly cooked buttermilk pancakes, heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat until it's hot but not smoking.
Once the surface is ready, lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
Pour about a 1/4 cup of your pancake batter onto the skillet, giving each pancake enough space to spread.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface, usually around 2-3 minutes. You'll know it's time to flip when the edges look set and the bottom is golden brown.
Turn the pancake gently and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until it's also golden.
Repeat this process until all your batter is used, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts

As you savor the deliciousness of your homemade buttermilk pancakes, it's clear that this recipe can easily become a breakfast staple in your kitchen.
The fluffy texture and rich flavor will have your family asking for seconds every time. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings, whether it's fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Don't forget that practice makes perfect; the more you make these pancakes, the better they'll turn out.
Experiment with variations like chocolate chips or nuts to keep things exciting. In addition to pancakes, consider trying an egg rollup and dumpling sauce for a quick and protein-rich breakfast option.
So, grab your mixing bowl and whisk, and whip up a batch for a delightful morning treat.
You'll find that this simple recipe brings joy to your breakfast table, time and time again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Buttermilk With Regular Milk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk, but the results may vary.
Regular milk lacks the acidity that buttermilk provides, which helps with leavening and flavor.
To mimic buttermilk's tangy taste, you can add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes.
This will give you a similar consistency and acidity, making it a suitable alternative in recipes.
How Can I Make Pancakes Vegan?
To make pancakes vegan, you'll want to replace eggs and dairy.
Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute—just combine one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.
For milk, almond or oat milk works great. You can also use a vegan butter alternative for richness.
Combine your dry ingredients, mix in the wet, and cook as usual.
Enjoy your delicious vegan pancakes!
What Toppings Pair Well With Buttermilk Pancakes?
When you're thinking about toppings for pancakes, you've got plenty of delicious options! Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas add a burst of flavor.
Maple syrup's a classic choice, but you might also enjoy honey or agave for sweetness. Consider adding whipped cream for a decadent touch, or sprinkle some nuts for crunch.
If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can take your pancakes to the next level!
Can I Freeze Leftover Pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pancakes! Just let them cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
Place the stack in an airtight container or a freezer bag, and make sure to remove as much air as possible.
When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat them in the microwave or toaster.
Freezing pancakes is a great way to save time for a quick breakfast!
How Do I Store Buttermilk Pancakes?
To store pancakes, let them cool completely first.
Then, stack them with parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking. Place the stack in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.
When you're ready to eat, just reheat them in the microwave or toaster for a quick and delicious meal!