There’s something magical about the smell of an old fashioned pancake recipe sizzling on a hot griddle in the morning. It takes you back to childhood mornings in grandma’s kitchen, where the air was filled with the sweet scent of vanilla and melted butter. She never used fancy gadgets or boxed mixes—just simple, wholesome ingredients stirred together with love. The golden-brown pancakes, stacked high and dripping with syrup, felt like a warm hug on a plate.
In a world of quick fixes and pre-made mixes, the charm of an old fashioned pancake recipe remains unmatched. These pancakes are soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet, made the way they were generations ago. Whether you’re recreating a family tradition or starting a new one, this recipe will bring comfort to your kitchen and a smile to your face.
Table of contents
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe
The beauty of an old fashioned pancake recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of warm, fluffy pancakes that taste like home. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for soft and fluffy pancakes.
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Gives the pancakes their rise and airiness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 ¼ cups milk – Whole milk works best for richness, but you can use alternatives.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind everything together.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – For a subtle, sweet aroma.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations:
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap whole milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Healthier Alternative: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier texture.
- Extra Fluffiness: Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the milk for a buttermilk-like effect.
- Flavor Boost: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. If you enjoy experimenting with different pancake styles, you might love this mini pancakes recipe guide, which offers a fun and bite-sized take on classic pancakes.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for an Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe
Making old fashioned pancake recipe doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a few reliable kitchen tools will do the job perfectly.
Essential Tools:
- Mixing bowls (2) – One for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
- Whisk or fork – For smoothly combining the batter without overmixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key for the perfect texture.
- Griddle or non-stick skillet – A well-heated surface ensures even cooking.
- Spatula – To flip pancakes easily without breaking them.
Nice-to-Have Extras:
- Ladle or measuring cup – For consistent pancake sizes.
- Sifter – Helps aerate the flour for extra fluffy pancakes.
- Butter brush – For greasing the skillet evenly.
With these simple ingredients and tools, you’re all set to make the best old fashioned pancake recipe just like grandma used to! 🥞
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to bring your old fashioned pancake recipe to life! Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create warm, fluffy, golden-brown pancakes just like the ones from childhood.
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This helps distribute the ingredients evenly and prevents clumping. If you want extra fluffy pancakes, sifting the dry ingredients beforehand can help aerate the flour.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a whisk or spatula. Be careful not to overmix—a few lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to dense, chewy pancakes instead of soft and fluffy ones.
Step 4: Preheat the Cooking Surface
Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a small amount of butter or oil. To check if it’s ready, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface—if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the pan is good to go.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Let it cook until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2-3 minutes). If you prefer a slightly tangy and unique twist to your pancakes, consider trying these sourdough discard pancakes for a delicious variation.
Step 6: Flip with Care
Once the bubbles appear and the underside is golden brown, gently flip the pancake using a spatula. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden on the other side.
Step 7: Keep Pancakes Warm
Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate lined with a clean kitchen towel or place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (200°F/90°C) to keep them warm while you finish the batch.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Stack your pancakes high and serve them with classic toppings like butter, maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar. If you’re in the mood for another comforting breakfast classic, check out this French toast sandwich recipe for a delicious alternative.
Now, take a bite and enjoy the comforting taste of old-fashioned goodness!
Pro Tip: If you want extra soft and fluffy pancakes, let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the baking powder to activate, giving your pancakes the perfect texture.
Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe
Making the perfect old fashioned pancake recipe isn’t just about following the recipe—it’s also about technique. Here are some expert tips to ensure your pancakes turn out soft, fluffy, and golden-brown every time.
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Baking powder loses its effectiveness over time. Make sure it’s fresh to get the best rise in your pancakes. If in doubt, test it by adding a teaspoon to warm water—if it fizzes, it’s good to go!
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
It’s tempting to stir until the batter is completely smooth, but overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough pancakes. A few lumps in the batter are completely fine and will dissolve during cooking.
3. Let the Batter Rest
Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking gives the baking powder time to activate, resulting in extra fluffy pancakes.
4. Use the Right Cooking Temperature
Set your stove to medium heat—too high, and the pancakes will burn before they cook inside; too low, and they won’t brown properly. A griddle temperature of 350°F (175°C) is ideal.
5. Grease the Pan Lightly
Using too much butter or oil can make the pancakes greasy and unevenly cooked. Instead, use a thin layer of butter or oil, wiping off any excess with a paper towel.
6. Flip Only Once
Resist the urge to flip pancakes multiple times! Flip them when bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set. A second flip can deflate the pancake, making it less fluffy.
7. Keep Pancakes Warm
If you’re making a large batch, place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven to keep them warm without drying them out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe
Even the best pancake makers can run into a few pitfalls. Here’s what not to do if you want perfect results with an old fashioned pancake recipe every time.
1. Overmixing the Batter
Overmixed batter = dense and chewy pancakes. Stir gently until just combined, leaving small lumps for better texture.
2. Skipping the Resting Time
Letting the batter sit for a few minutes before cooking allows the baking powder to work, resulting in fluffier pancakes. Don’t rush it!
3. Cooking at the Wrong Temperature
Too hot? The outside burns while the inside stays raw. Too low? The pancakes become pale and tough. Stick to medium heat or 350°F for best results.
4. Using Too Much or Too Little Butter/Oil
A greasy pan can fry your pancakes instead of giving them a light, golden-brown finish. A dry pan, on the other hand, can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Use just a thin layer for the perfect balance.
5. Flipping Too Early or Too Often
If you flip too soon, the pancake will be undercooked and might fall apart. Flip only once when bubbles form and the edges look set.
6. Pressing Down on the Pancakes
Never press the pancakes down with a spatula! This squeezes out the air, making them flat instead of fluffy. Let them rise naturally.
7. Measuring Ingredients Incorrectly
Baking is all about precision. Spoon and level your flour (don’t scoop directly from the bag) and measure liquids accurately for the best results.
By following these tips and avoiding these mistakes, you’ll have golden, fluffy pancakes every single time!
Conclusion: Why This Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe is a Must-Try
There’s something truly special about making pancakes the old-fashioned way. It’s not just about the ingredients or the process—it’s about the warmth, nostalgia, and love that go into every golden, fluffy stack. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or starting a new family tradition, this old fashioned pancake recipe will never fail to bring joy to the breakfast table.
By following these tips, avoiding common mistakes, and experimenting with different variations, you’ll master the art of homemade pancakes in no time. So grab your mixing bowl, heat up that griddle, and enjoy the comforting taste of a classic breakfast staple. Happy pancake-making! 🥞
FAQs About Old Fashioned Pancake Recipe
What is the secret to making the best pancakes?
The secret lies in a few key factors: using fresh ingredients, not overmixing the batter, letting it rest, and cooking at the right temperature. Also, using just the right amount of butter or oil on the griddle helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color without making them greasy.
What are old-fashioned pancakes?
Old-fashioned pancakes are classic, homemade pancakes made from scratch using simple, traditional ingredients like flour, baking powder, milk, eggs, butter, and a touch of sugar. Unlike modern boxed mixes, these pancakes have a more authentic texture and flavor, just like grandma used to make!
What are the ingredients for pancakes made from scratch?
To make pancakes from scratch, you’ll need:
- Flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)
- Baking powder (for fluffiness)
- Sugar (for slight sweetness)
- Salt (to enhance flavor)
- Milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- Eggs (to bind the batter)
- Melted butter (for richness)
- Vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
What is the oldest pancake mix?
The oldest commercially sold pancake mix is Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix, which was introduced in 1889. It was the first ready-made pancake mix available in stores, making it a staple in American households for over a century. The brand has since rebranded as Pearl Milling Company, but the original pancake mix remains a favorite.