If you have ever dreamed of making fluffy, light, and irresistibly tender pancakes right in your own kitchen, let me introduce you to The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe. These pancakes are the kind that bring everyone running to the breakfast table, offering the perfect balance of a soft crumb with just a touch of tang from the buttermilk. From the golden edges to the melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe will transform your weekend mornings into a joyous, cozy celebration of flavor and comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a thick, creamy mixture with a lumpy texture in a large white bowl. The mixture is off-white and appears soft and wet, with slightly uneven clumps throughout. A light blue silicone spatula with a wooden handle is partially submerged in the mixture on the right side of the bowl, resting inside. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface that adds a clean and bright contrast to the pale mixture inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple pantry staples is all you need to whip up The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the perfect rise, adding a subtle sweetness, or contributing to that signature tender crumb and beautiful color.

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for the structure of your pancakes, ensuring they hold together with a light consistency.
2 Tbsp granulated sugar: Just enough to add a hint of sweetness without overpowering the tang from the buttermilk.
2 tsp baking powder: A leavening agent that helps your pancakes become delightfully fluffy and airy.
½ tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to give that extra lift and golden-brown finish.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweet and tangy notes perfectly.
2 cups (473ml) buttermilk: The star of the show, responsible for tenderness and a slight tang that makes these pancakes uniquely delicious.
3 Tbsp (43g) unsalted butter, melted & cooled: Adds richness and helps create a soft, tender texture in every bite.
1 large egg: Binds everything together while contributing to a fluffy interior.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor to the batter.

How to Make The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures all your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is key to a uniform rise and perfect texture throughout your pancakes.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly, then stir in the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This mixture blends the richness of butter with the tangy buttermilk and fragrant vanilla, building layers of flavor before combining with the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Gently Blend the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfect for light, fluffy pancakes. Overmixing will develop gluten and result in dense pancakes, which we definitely want to avoid in The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe.

Step 4: Preheat Your Pan or Griddle

Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. To test if it’s ready, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface—if they dance and evaporate quickly, you’re good to go. Lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to pour batter onto the hot griddle. Cook until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, about 1 to 2 more minutes. Repeat with remaining batter, adjusting heat as needed.

How to Serve The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe

A single golden-brown pancake with a round shape and smooth, slightly spongy texture is being lifted from a black cast iron pan with a light gray spatula that has a wooden handle. The pancake shows an even browning with a slightly lighter edge, about one layer thick. The pan rests on a wooden board on a white marbled surface. A striped white and dark blue kitchen towel is partially visible in the background, and a woman's hand is holding the spatula. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your pancakes with fresh berries for a burst of brightness or a pat of butter that melts luxuriously over each stack. A drizzle of pure maple syrup is classic, but don’t hesitate to try whipped cream, honey, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.

Side Dishes

Pair these pancakes with savory sausage links to create a harmonious balance of flavors. Fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait makes a refreshing and healthful accompaniment that keeps the meal light and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering your pancakes with spreads like Nutella or lemon curd between each one. You can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for kids or adults wanting a playful breakfast. Stack your pancakes high and add edible flowers for a stunning brunch centerpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stack them with sheets of parchment paper in between to keep them from sticking together and maintain their fluffy texture.

Freezing

Freeze leftover pancakes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. This method keeps them fresh and makes it easy to grab a quick breakfast anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave. For the best texture, warming them in a toaster or on a skillet over medium heat will bring back that freshly-cooked crisp on the edges and soft interior that makes The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe so delightful.

FAQs

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a simple substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic the tang and acidity of real buttermilk.

Why shouldn’t I overmix the batter?

Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, making your pancakes tough and chewy instead of light and fluffy. A few lumps left in the batter are completely normal and actually contribute to the perfect texture in The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure to check that the leavening agents in the blend work well to maintain the rise and texture.

How do I know when the pancakes are ready to flip?

Look for bubbles forming and popping on the surface of the pancake and for the edges to look set and slightly dry. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side.

Can I add mix-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Gently fold fresh or frozen blueberries, or chocolate chips into the batter right before cooking. Just be careful not to add too many, or the pancakes might become difficult to flip and cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

There is something so truly special about waking up to a stack of The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe, and now you have the perfect guide to make them yourself! Once you try this recipe, it’s likely to become your go-to breakfast treat, impressing family and friends with every fluffy, buttery bite. So don’t wait—get in the kitchen and start flipping your own pancake magic today!

The Best Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch Recipe