
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a plate of homemade pancakes that instantly brings a smile to my face. As the golden-brown discs sizzle on the griddle, the sweet aroma fills the kitchen, transporting me back to lazy Sunday mornings spent with family. These old-fashioned pancakes are not just a breakfast option; they’re a warm embrace on a plate, made with simple pantry staples that you probably have on hand.
Ready in under 10 minutes, this classic recipe is equally versatile, allowing for delightful mix-ins like juicy blueberries or decadent chocolate chips. Whether you’re looking to impress loved ones on the weekend or enjoy a quick weekday breakfast, these fluffy pancakes bring a touch of indulgence to any day. They’re the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings, whether you prefer syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream. Join me in whipping up a batch of these timeless pancakes that promise to make every breakfast feel special!

Why are Old-Fashioned Pancakes so beloved?
Comforting aroma: The scent of these pancakes sizzling away on the griddle evokes fond memories and warmth in your kitchen.
Quick and easy: With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a warm breakfast ready in under 10 minutes.
Customizable fun: Add your favorite mix-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips for a delightful twist each time.
Perfectly fluffy: Following our easy tips, these pancakes turn out impossibly light and airy, a breakfast delight.
Family-friendly: Whether it’s a special occasion or a busy weekday, these pancakes suit all occasions, making everyone smile! Try adding blueberries for an extra burst of freshness!
Old-Fashioned Pancakes Ingredients
Get ready to whip up some deliciousness with these classic staples!
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – This is the foundation of your pancakes; consider using half whole wheat for a heartier texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Baking Powder – Essential for that light and fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Salt – Highlights the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Milk – Adds moisture; whole milk gives a rich flavor, but alternatives like almond or oat milk work beautifully too.
- Egg – This acts as a binder and gives structure to the pancakes.
- Melted Butter – Adds a rich flavor; remember to cool it slightly before adding to prevent scrambling the egg.
- Vanilla Extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor profile with a delightful touch of sweetness.
Optional Mix-ins
- Blueberries – Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries before cooking for pops of fruity flavor.
- Chocolate Chips – Sprinkle on the batter right before flipping for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Cinnamon – Introduce a warm spice by adding ground cinnamon to your dry ingredients.
- Ripe Banana – Mash it into the wet mixture for natural sweetness and added moisture.
Dive into these Old-Fashioned Pancakes and transform your breakfast experience!
How to Make Old-Fashioned Pancakes
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures your pancakes will rise beautifully!
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and creamy. A well-mixed wet blend is key.
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Make the Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can lead to tough pancakes!
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Preheat Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a little butter to prevent sticking. A properly heated skillet will help achieve that golden-brown color.
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Cook Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and fluffy.
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Serve Warm: Stack your pancakes high on a plate and serve them warm with a pat of butter and drizzles of maple syrup, or pile on your favorite toppings for an extra treat.
Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a delightful finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Old-Fashioned Pancakes Variations
Feel free to personalize your pancakes and create a breakfast masterpiece that suits your taste!
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Blueberry Bliss: Fold in juicy blueberries before cooking for bursts of fruity flavor in every bite.
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Chocolate Chip Indulgence: Sprinkle chocolate chips onto the batter while cooking, creating delightful pockets of sweetness throughout.
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Warm Cinnamon: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry mix for a cozy, aromatic twist that complements syrup beautifully.
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Banana Delight: Mash a ripe banana into the wet ingredients for natural sweetness and added moisture for an irresistible banana pancake.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to infuse a delightful crunch and nutty flavor into the pancakes.
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Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh berries or syrup.
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Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising hint of heat that adds depth to the sweet pancakes.
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Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and milk with almond or soy milk for a tasty vegan alternative without sacrificing texture.
How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Pancakes
- Room Temperature: Leftover pancakes can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours; keep them covered to prevent drying out.
- Fridge: Store pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast.
- Freezer: Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Layer parchment paper between to prevent sticking.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave for about 30 seconds on medium power or toast until warm and golden; they’ll taste just as fluffy as fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Old-Fashioned Pancakes are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped ahead to save you time throughout the week! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The wet ingredients (milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract) can be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, cook as directed on the stovetop, and enjoy fluffy pancakes just as delicious as if made fresh! This strategy ensures you have a warm, homemade breakfast in minutes, making mornings less hectic.
Helpful Tricks for Old-Fashioned Pancakes
- Don’t Overmix: Gently stir your batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes instead of the fluffy texture you desire.
- Resting Time: Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes before cooking. This allows the baking powder to activate and enhances the fluffiness of your old-fashioned pancakes.
- Heat Control: Keep your skillet at medium heat to prevent burning. If pancakes brown too quickly, lower the heat for even cooking.
- Grease Smartly: Use just enough butter to grease the skillet. Too much can cause edges to fry rather than cook evenly.
- Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with mix-ins! Blueberries, chocolate chips, or adding a dash of cinnamon can elevate your old-fashioned pancakes every time.
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Pancakes?
There’s nothing like a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes to kickstart your day in the most delightful way.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweetness of syrup-soaked pancakes, making every bite a savory treat.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: A vibrant mix of berries, bananas, and slices of orange adds a refreshing, juicy contrast to the rich pancakes.
- Maple Syrup: No pancake is complete without a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup, enhancing the flavors with its natural sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh fruit offers a creamy, tangy complement, ideal for adding contrast and nutrition.
Pair your Old-Fashioned Pancakes with a steaming cup of coffee for a cozy breakfast experience. Some freshly squeezed orange juice helps brighten your plate and energize your morning.
- Whipped Cream: For a touch of indulgence, spoon on some fluffy whipped cream – a rich, sweet addition that elevates your breakfast.
- Nut Butter Spread: A dollop of almond or peanut butter lends a nutty flavor and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with pancakes.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce can transform your breakfast into a dessert-like experience that everyone will love.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a fun twist, serve pancakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a heavenly breakfast dessert!

Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my pancakes?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, opt for fresh, high-quality items. For flour, ensure it’s fresh by checking the expiry date. Milk should be within its use-by date and preferably whole milk for richness. For eggs, look for ones with clean and intact shells; a fresh egg will feel heavy and will not have an off smell when cracked open.
How should I store leftover pancakes, and how long will they last?
Very good question! Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or refrigerate them for 3 days. They should be layered with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. Just be sure to keep them tightly sealed to maintain their softness!
Can I freeze my old-fashioned pancakes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour until they’re firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This will keep them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds or toast them for a quick reheat!
What can I do if my pancakes turn out too dense?
If your pancakes are dense, the culprit is likely overmixing the batter! Gently stir until just combined to allow for light, fluffy pancakes. If this has already happened, you can add a little more baking powder (½ teaspoon) to your batter or let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking—this will help create air pockets for fluffiness!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, it’s best to check which mix-ins will work. For example, gluten-free flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour to make gluten-free pancakes. If you’re using non-dairy milk, opt for almond, soy, or oat milk instead. Always check the labels for ingredients like baking powder, as some contain cornstarch made from gluten. Remember to consult your loved ones to ensure a safe, delicious breakfast for everyone!

Fluffy Old-Fashioned Pancakes: The Best Breakfast You’ll Love
Equipment
- Non-stick Skillet
- large bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Consider using half whole wheat for a heartier texture.
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Feel free to adjust based on preference.
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Highlights sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1 cup Milk Whole milk gives a rich flavor; alternatives like almond or oat milk work too.
- 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
- 2 tablespoons Melted Butter Cool slightly before adding to prevent scrambling the egg.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Optional; enhances flavor.
Optional Mix-ins
- 1 cup Blueberries Fresh or frozen.
- 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips Sprinkle on batter before flipping.
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Can add warm spice.
- 1 ripe Banana Mash into wet mixture for natural sweetness.
Instructions
Pancake Preparation
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, lightly greasing it with butter.
- Cook Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Stack pancakes and serve with butter and syrup or your favorite toppings.





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