Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe

Prepare dry mix

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda and fine salt until evenly combined. Breaking up any clumps with the whisk will ensure a smooth batter.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate medium bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted cooled butter and vanilla extract until homogeneous. The butter should be warm or room temperature so it doesn't congeal when mixed with the cold buttermilk.

Mix batter gently

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, stir just until the flour is incorporated. Small lumps are fine — do not overmix, which will make pancakes tough. Let the batter rest 5 to 10 minutes; this hydrates the flour and helps the baking powder/soda activate for tender, airy pancakes.

Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat (around 375°F / 190°C if using an electric griddle). Lightly oil the surface with neutral oil or a little butter, wiping off excess with a paper towel so the surface is evenly coated but not smoking.

For large pancakes, use a 1/3- to 1/2-cup scoop of batter per pancake. Pour batter onto the hot griddle, leaving space between pancakes. Cook undisturbed until bubbles form across the surface and the edges look set, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Flip the pancakes with a thin spatula and cook the second side until golden brown and cooked through, about 1 to 2 minutes more. Adjust heat as needed so pancakes brown evenly without burning; lower heat if they are browning too quickly.

Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate or oven set to low (around 200°F / 95°C) to keep warm while you cook remaining batter. Lightly re-oil the griddle between batches if needed.

Stack 2–3 large pancakes per serving. Top with a pat of butter if desired and serve immediately with warm maple syrup to taste.

If you need to reheat, wrap stacks in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes, or microwave briefly in 20-second intervals until warm.