Easy Pancakes

Prep: 5 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Fluffy, golden pancakes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a light and tender texture with a subtle buttery flavor. Easy to customize with toppings like syrup, fruits, or whipped cream, making them ideal for family gatherings or a quick morning treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 tablespoons shortening
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Mix together all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
  2. Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  3. Pour batter onto the skillet to form pancakes of desired size.
  4. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Serve warm with toppings of your choice.

Tips & Substitutions

For fluffier pancakes, let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. If you don't have shortening, melted butter or vegetable oil can be used as substitutes. You can also add vanilla extract or a pinch of sugar for extra flavor. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or incorporate mashed bananas for a banana pancake variation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these easy pancakes warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of yogurt. They also pair beautifully with Mock Hamburger Patties for a unique brunch option. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for a fun twist. These pancakes are versatile and make a great canvas for various toppings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Easy Pancakes contains roughly 827 calories, with 5g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1146mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).

827 kcal 41% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 64.5g 83% DV
Carbs 60.3g 22% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 2.3g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1146.2mg 50% DV
Potassium 345.7mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 155.1mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 47.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 1mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 423.2mg 33% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before using, as it may thicken slightly. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook the pancakes fresh after mixing.

What can I use instead of milk in the recipe?

You can use any non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk, as a substitute for regular milk. If you're looking for a creamier texture, consider using yogurt mixed with water. This will still yield delicious pancakes while accommodating dietary preferences.

How can I make these pancakes healthier?

To make these pancakes healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Adding in mashed fruits like bananas or applesauce can also enhance the nutritional value. For a lower-calorie option, consider reducing the amount of shortening or using a non-stick cooking spray.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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