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The Ultimate Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes: Tall, Light, and Airy Stacks

Close-up of a stack of four fluffy pancakes cut to show the airy interior texture.

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Learn the foolproof secrets to making the best homemade pancakes that are incredibly light, airy, and tall every time. This easy recipe uses simple pantry staples for a classic weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture is key for even rising.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing develops gluten and creates flat pancakes.
  4. Gently whisk in the melted butter until incorporated.
  5. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. This allows the leavening agents to activate, creating air pockets for maximum fluffiness.
  6. Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray. The griddle is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  7. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Do not crowd the pan.
  8. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
  9. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Serve immediately in tall stacks with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • The secret to tall pancakes is using both baking powder and baking soda with buttermilk. The acid in the buttermilk reacts with the soda, while the powder provides extra lift.
  • Do not press down on the pancakes with your spatula after flipping. This releases the trapped air and makes them flat.
  • For the best results, measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag.

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