ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE | FOOD
Article Published on: 01ST MAR 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com
There’s nothing better than a stack of light, airy, and perfectly fluffy pancakes for breakfast. Achieving that ideal texture requires the right ingredients, techniques, and a little bit of science. Follow these tips to ensure your pancakes are consistently soft and pillowy every time.
1. Use the Right Ingredients
For fluffy pancakes, start with all-purpose flour for structure, baking powder for lift, and a bit of sugar for tenderness. Baking soda can be added if using an acidic ingredient like buttermilk. Eggs contribute to structure, while melted butter or oil adds richness.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing develops gluten, leading to dense pancakes. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—some lumps are perfectly fine. The batter should be thick but still pourable. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate and the leavening agents to activate.
3. Choose Buttermilk for Extra Fluffiness
Buttermilk adds acidity, which reacts with baking soda to create air bubbles, making pancakes lighter. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
4. Keep the Right Heat
Use medium-low to medium heat. Too high, and the pancakes will burn before they cook through; too low, and they won’t rise properly. A preheated nonstick skillet or griddle lightly greased with butter or oil ensures even cooking.
5. Look for Bubbles Before Flipping
Pour the batter onto the pan and wait for bubbles to form on the surface before flipping. This indicates the pancakes are cooked enough on one side. Flip gently and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
6. Stack and Serve Immediately
For the fluffiest texture, serve pancakes fresh off the griddle. If making multiple batches, keep them warm in a low-temperature oven (200°F). Top with butter, syrup, or fresh fruit, and enjoy your perfectly fluffy pancakes!