I used to think homemade pancakes were only worth it if I had extra time and zero interruptions.
Most mornings, I just want breakfast to happen without turning into a whole situation, but I still want those soft, fluffy pancakes that feel like a weekend treat.
Box mixes can be fine, but they never hit the same, and I always end up wishing they were thicker, fluffier, and actually buttery-tasting.
This scratch pancake recipe fixes that in the easiest way.
You’ll get simple ingredients, clear steps, and little tricks that make your pancakes come out tall, tender, and fluffy every single time, even on a busy morning.
Fluffy and Easy Pancakes for You
This pancake recipe is easier than most because it keeps the ingredients simple and the steps straightforward, without extra bowls or complicated techniques.
You get thick, fluffy pancakes every time because the batter rests just long enough to do the work for you.
The best part is how flexible it is.
You can fold in blueberries, chocolate chips, or sliced strawberries, or even pour the batter into heart shapes for a fun Valentine’s Day breakfast.
Once you learn this base recipe, it becomes one you can adjust for any morning or occasion without starting over.
Ingredients for Soft Fluffy Pancakes
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for the pan)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but so good)
Optional add-ins
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup blueberries
Step-by-Steps for Fluffy Pancakes
Step 1: Mix the dry ingredients
You whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until everything looks evenly mixed. You make sure there are no baking powder clumps because that can create bitter little pockets.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
You whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla in a separate bowl. You let the melted butter cool slightly first so it doesn’t cook the egg.
Step 3: Combine gently
You pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until the flour disappears. You keep the batter a little lumpy because over-mixing is what makes pancakes tough instead of fluffy.
Step 4: Rest the batter
You let the batter sit for 5 to 10 minutes so it thickens and the baking powder can start doing its thing. You use this time to heat your pan and set out toppings.
Step 5: Heat and grease the pan
You warm a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You lightly grease it with butter or oil, then wipe excess with a paper towel so the pancakes cook evenly.
Step 6: Scoop and cook the first side
You scoop about ¼ cup batter per pancake and pour it onto the pan. You let it cook until bubbles form on top and the edges look set, usually 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 7: Flip once and finish
You flip the pancake gently and cook the second side for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and springy. You avoid pressing down with the spatula because that squishes the fluff.
Step 8: Keep warm while you cook the rest
You place finished pancakes on a plate and cover loosely with foil, or keep them warm in a low oven. You repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan lightly as needed.
Simple Topping Ideas for Fluffy Pancakes
You go classic with butter and maple syrup when you want the cozy diner vibe.
You add fresh fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar when you want it to feel special without effort.
You spread peanut butter or Nutella when you need a breakfast win that gets zero complaints.
Mix-in Tips When Making Fluffy Pancakes
You sprinkle chocolate chips or berries onto the batter after you pour it into the pan so they don’t sink to the bottom of the bowl. You keep mix-ins light so the pancakes still rise and stay fluffy.
Common Pancake Problems to Fix
If your pancakes are thin
You let the batter rest longer or add 1 to 2 tablespoons more flour.
You also double-check your baking powder because old baking powder makes flat pancakes.
If your pancakes are too dark outside
You lower the heat and give the pan a minute to settle.
You cook pancakes slower so the centers stay soft instead of underdone.
If your pancakes taste dry
You avoid extra flour and stop mixing as soon as the batter comes together.
You also measure flour by spooning it into the cup instead of packing it down.
A Cozy Breakfast You’ll Want on Repeat
These soft fluffy pancakes are so soft, fluffy and delicious to make.
You get that tender, thick pancake texture without a mix, without fancy steps, and without stress.
Once you make them this way, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe anytime you want an easy win.
