Aug 31 2026

Hotcakes Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Make Hotcakes Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Batter

Method

Batter

  1. 1

    Whisk dry ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine salt until evenly combined and aerated.

  2. 2

    Combine wet ingredients

    In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the whole milk, large egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and homogenous.

  3. 3

    Mix batter

    Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the well and gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy — do not overmix. Let the batter rest 5–10 minutes to hydrate the flour and allow leavening to begin.

  4. 4

    Adjust consistency (optional)

    If the batter seems very thick (not pourable but stiff), thin with 1–2 tablespoons of milk at a time until it reaches a thick but pourable consistency similar to heavy cream.

Cooking and Serving

  1. 5

    Preheat griddle or pan

    Place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. Test heat by sprinkling a few drops of water: they should dance and evaporate. Lightly brush the cooking surface with the neutral oil or a little melted butter.

  2. 6

    Cook hotcakes

    For each hotcake, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot surface, leaving space between pancakes. Cook until bubbles form across the top and edges begin to set, about 2–3 minutes. Using a thin spatula, flip and cook the second side until golden brown and cooked through, about 1.5–2 minutes more. Adjust heat as needed so they brown evenly without burning.

  3. 7

    Keep warm (optional)

    If cooking in batches, keep finished hotcakes warm on a baking sheet in a single layer set in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you cook the remaining batter. Do not stack wet pancakes or they will steam and become soggy.

  4. 8

    Serve

    Stack hotcakes two or three high. Top with a pat of butter and drizzle with maple syrup, or serve with fresh berries and extra butter on the side. Serve immediately.

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