buttermilk pancakes

If you’re craving a breakfast classic that’s fluffy, tender, and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place.

My buttermilk pancakes recipe is simple, quick, and delivers those perfectly golden stacks every time.

With just a handful of pantry staples and a few easy steps, you’ll have pancakes worthy of any weekend brunch — or a cozy weekday morning treat!

Whether you’re new to pancake-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and adaptable. Plus, I’ll share tips on optional add-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips to customize your pancakes exactly how you like them.

Ingredients List for Buttermilk Pancakes

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these fluffy pancakes:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cups buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup melted butter (plus extra for greasing the pan)

Optional Add-ins:
Blueberries, bananas, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts are all great to mix in for extra flavor and texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Making pancakes is straightforward, but having the right tools can make the process smoother:

1. Mixing Bowls — One for dry ingredients and one for wet.
2. Whisk or Fork — To blend your ingredients without overmixing.
3. Measuring Cups & Spoons — For precise ingredient amounts.
4. Non-stick Skillet or Griddle — For even cooking and easy flipping.
5. Spatula — To flip the pancakes gently without breaking them.
6. Ladle or 1/4 Cup Measuring Cup — For scooping consistent portions of batter.

Preparing the Batter and Cooking Your Buttermilk Pancakes

The secret to light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes starts with how you mix the batter. Here’s my step-by-step guide to get it just right:

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed for consistent rising.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs lightly. Then stir in 2 cups of buttermilk and ¼ cup of melted butter. Using room-temperature eggs and buttermilk helps the batter blend smoothly.

Step 3: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together with a spatula or wooden spoon. Remember: stir just until combined—some lumps are perfectly okay! Overmixing can make your pancakes tough.

Step 4: Rest the Batter

Let your batter rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This short pause allows the baking powder and baking soda to activate fully, resulting in fluffier pancakes.

Step 5: Heat and Grease Your Pan

Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking. A properly heated surface ensures your pancakes cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.

Step 6: Cook Your Pancakes

Use a ¼ cup measuring cup or ladle to pour batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Repeat this process for the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as needed to avoid burning.

Optional Add-ins, Serving Suggestions, and Toppings for Buttermilk Pancakes

One of the best things about this buttermilk pancake recipe is how versatile it is. Once your batter is ready, feel free to get creative with add-ins and toppings to suit your taste.

Popular Add-ins to Mix Into the Batter

• Blueberries: Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries for a juicy burst in every bite.
• Banana Slices: Add thinly sliced bananas to the batter or place them on the pancake while cooking for natural sweetness.
• Chocolate Chips: For a decadent treat, sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a lovely crunch and nuttiness.

Simply fold your chosen add-ins gently into the batter just before cooking, so they distribute evenly without weighing it down.

Serving Your Buttermilk Pancakes

I love stacking these pancakes high and topping them off with:

• Maple Syrup: The classic choice that pairs perfectly with the tangy buttermilk flavor.
• Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches add freshness and color.
• Whipped Cream: For a light, creamy finish that elevates your pancake stack.
• Butter: A pat of butter melting on top adds rich flavor and moisture.
• Honey or Nut Butters: For a natural sweetener or extra protein boost.

Serve your pancakes immediately while they’re warm and soft for the best experience.

Storage Tips, Troubleshooting, and Final Thoughts

How to Store Leftover Pancakes

If you happen to have any pancakes left over (though I rarely do!), storing them properly keeps them tasting fresh:

• Short-term: Place pancakes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a toaster or microwave until heated through.
• Long-term: For longer storage, freeze pancakes by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven.

Troubleshooting Common Pancake Problems

• Pancakes turn out flat: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Don’t overmix the batter; lumps are okay!
• Pancakes stick to the pan: Use a non-stick skillet and enough butter or oil to grease the surface properly.
• Pancakes are dense: Ensure your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature, and let the batter rest before cooking.

Conclusion

Mastering this buttermilk pancake recipe means you’ll always have a reliable go-to for easy, delicious breakfasts. The tangy buttermilk and gentle rise create pancakes that are tender, fluffy, and full of flavor. Plus, the recipe’s simplicity means you can quickly whip up a batch even on busy mornings.

Feel free to experiment with add-ins and toppings to make your pancake mornings even more special. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a fun breakfast for the family, these pancakes never disappoint.

So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the ultimate homemade buttermilk pancakes experience!