American pancakes are one of the most beloved breakfast dishes across the United States known for their soft fluffy texture and light sweet flavor. They are easy to prepare yet feel comforting warm and satisfying. A stack of freshly cooked pancakes topped with butter maple syrup fruits or whipped cream creates a perfect start to the day.
These pancakes are thicker than crepes and have a cake like softness thanks to baking powder which helps them rise beautifully. The batter comes together in minutes and with the right technique you can make golden evenly cooked pancakes that are fluffy inside and lightly crisp outside. This recipe explains every step in detail so you can enjoy authentic American diner style pancakes at home.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Pancake Batter
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Half teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 egg
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
For Serving
- Maple syrup
- Butter cubes
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream optional
Step by Step Method to Make American Pancakes
Step 1
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- Take a mixing bowl and add flour sugar baking powder baking soda and salt.
- Mix everything well so the ingredients distribute evenly.
- This step ensures the pancakes rise smoothly.
Step 2
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl whisk milk melted butter and egg together until smooth.
- Do not over whisk just mix until combined.
Step 3
Make the Batter
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture.
- Stir gently until everything combines.
- The batter should be slightly thick and a little lumpy which helps pancakes become fluffy.
- Do not over mix or the pancakes may become dense.
Step 4
Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non stick pan on low to medium heat.
- Add a little butter.
- Pour a ladle of batter into the center of the pan.
- When small bubbles appear on the surface flip the pancake gently.
- Cook until the other side turns golden.
- Repeat for the remaining batter.
Your kitchen will smell sweet and inviting as the pancakes cook.
Step 5
Serve and Enjoy
Stack the pancakes on a plate.
Top with
- Butter
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Serve warm for the best soft fluffy texture.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Do not over mix the batter
- Cook on low to medium heat so pancakes do not burn
- Flip only when bubbles appear
- Use fresh baking powder for maximum fluffiness
- Add more milk if the batter becomes too thick
Variations You Can Try
- Add chocolate chips for a dessert style pancake
- Add mashed banana for banana pancakes
- Add blueberries for fruity pancakes
- Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm spiced flavor
Approximate Nutrition per Serving
Values may vary
- Calories 250 to 350
- Carbohydrates 40g
- Protein 6g
- Fat 8g