Light, fluffy, and simple to prepare, this Basic Buttermilk Pancakes recipe is a reliable favorite. It’s an excellent base for many flavored variations and delivers consistent results every time.
Every home cook benefits from a collection of dependable, easy recipes. This Basic Buttermilk Pancakes recipe has been trusted in our family for years. It comes together quickly and yields pancakes that are tender, airy, and perfectly golden.
Why you’ll love these pancakes
- Light, fluffy texture
- Quick and simple to mix
- Great for batch cooking and freezes well
- An adaptable base for countless flavor combinations
Make Ahead and Storage
These pancakes reheat beautifully and maintain their soft, fluffy texture, making them ideal for preparing ahead.
Decide whether you’ll refrigerate or freeze the batch and store accordingly.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator for 5–7 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 45–60 seconds, then top with butter, syrup, or your preferred garnish.
Freezer Storage
Freezing is our preferred method for meal prep. Prepare multiple batches, cool them completely, and separate portions into single-serving zip-top bags. These pancakes keep well in the freezer for up to six months with minimal change in texture or flavor.
Topping and Mix-In Ideas
This basic batter is a perfect canvas. Add fruit, mix-ins, or spices to customize your pancakes:
- Fresh fruit (berries, banana slices)
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts
- Shredded coconut
- Flavored extracts (almond, maple)
- Food coloring for themed events
- Different syrups such as cranberry syrup, candy corn syrup, or honey
- Fresh herbs or warm spices like cinnamon
Or keep them simple and classic—served with butter and maple syrup, they’re delicious on their own.
PRO TIP: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute at home by combining milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it rest briefly.
Printable Recipe
Basic Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe
Nicole Cook
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ¼ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
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Lightly grease and preheat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking soda. Add the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, and melted butter. Stir until just combined — do not overmix. The batter should be thick with small lumps.
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Spoon portions of batter onto the hot griddle. If needed, gently spread with the back of a spoon to shape.
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Cook about 1–2 minutes per side, until bubbles form and the edges are set, then flip and cook until both sides are golden brown. Serve warm.