Best Buttermilk Pancake Recipe | Fluffy, Easy & Homemade

Name: Fluffy Buttermilk Pancake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups buttermilk (shake well before using); 2 large eggs; ¼ cup melted unsalted butter (plus more for greasing the pan); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

Jump to Recipe

There’s nothing like waking up to the smell of hot, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, right on the griddle. This is the best buttermilk pancake recipe that’s quick, easy, and made from scratch. This homemade pancake recipe delivers perfectly golden, fluffy, and airy pancakes every time—no store-bought mix required. Using simple ingredients like flour, eggs, butter, and real buttermilk, you can make pancakes with just the right amount of sourness, fluff, and flavor. Also, this recipe is perfect for beginners and ready in less than 30 minutes!

This is the kind of classic American breakfast recipe that has become a family tradition. You can top it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Let’s dive in and make the fluffiest buttermilk pancakes of your life!

🥞 Reasons To Love This Buttermilk Pancake Recipe

This easy buttermilk pancake recipe is your new go-to for soft, fluffy, golden breakfast pancakes.

✔Fluffy & Soft Texture: Thanks to the acidity in real buttermilk and just the right amount of baking powder & soda, these pancakes rise beautifully for that irresistible airy bite.
✔No Pancake Mix Needed: Made completely from scratch with basic pantry ingredients — fresher, better, and budget-friendly.
✔Perfect for All Occasions: From a quick weekday breakfast to a cozy weekend brunch, these pancakes never fail to impress.
✔Customizable: Add blueberries, chocolate chips, bananas, or even a scoop of protein powder — it’s your canvas.
✔Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch, freeze, and reheat for busy mornings without sacrificing taste or texture.

Curious about how buttermilk actually affects pancake texture? Read this helpful guide from America’s Taste Kitchen: Why Buttermilk Makes Better Pancakes .

🥞 Ingredients You’ll Need for Buttermilk Pancake Recipe

To make the best homemade buttermilk pancakes, you only need a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients. These simple items combine to create the fluffiest, golden pancakes that are perfect for any breakfast or brunch!

1. All-Purpose Flour

The foundation for soft, fluffy pancakes with structure. Sift for extra airiness!

2. Baking Powder & Baking Soda

Leavening agents that help your pancakes rise and stay fluffy.

3. Buttermilk

The magic ingredient! Buttermilk reacts with the baking soda for light, airy pancakes with a slight tang.

4. Eggs

Add richness and help bind the batter. Room temperature eggs work best!

5. Melted Butter

Provides delicious flavor and moist texture. Don’t skip this!

6. Sugar, Salt & Vanilla Extract

Enhances flavor. A touch of vanilla gives a warm, bakery-style finish.

💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute using milk and lemon juice! For more tips on mastering pancake ingredients, check out this helpful guide by King Arthur Baking.

🥞 How to Make Buttermilk Pancakes Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to make the fluffiest buttermilk pancakes from scratch—perfect for cozy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. All you need are a few basic ingredients and a hot skillet!

Step-by-step process of making buttermilk pancakes

Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. This ensures your pancakes rise evenly and develop that classic fluffy texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. For extra fluffy pancakes, use room-temperature eggs and fresh buttermilk.
Mix Wet into Dry:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the batter with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Do not overmix! A few lumps are okay—overmixing leads to dense pancakes.
Let the Batter Rest:
Let the batter sit for about 5–10 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the baking soda to react with the buttermilk, creating an airier texture.
Heat the Griddle:
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. You want a hot surface that isn’t smoking.
Cook the Pancakes:
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the griddle. When bubbles start to form and the edges look set (about 2–3 minutes), flip gently and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Serve Warm:
Stack them up, top with maple syrup, fresh berries, or your favorite toppings, and serve immediately!

🧠 Pro Tip: Letting the batter rest is a key secret to extra fluffy buttermilk pancakes!

🥞 Tips From CRISPYFOODIDEA for Perfect Buttermilk Pancake Recipe

Want the fluffiest, most golden buttermilk pancakes ever? These expert-approved tips ensure your pancakes come out soft, airy, and delicious—every single time. Follow these pancake-making secrets to learn the art of the perfect stack!

🥣 Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing develops the gluten in flour and leads to dense pancakes. Gently stir until just combined. A few lumps are totally okay!
🥛 Use Real Buttermilk for Maximum Fluff
Authentic buttermilk reacts with baking soda to create air bubbles—essential for light, fluffy pancakes. No buttermilk? Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp vinegar as a substitute.
⏳ Let the Batter Rest
Resting the batter for 5–10 minutes allows it to hydrate and activates the leavening agents. This results in puffier pancakes.
🔥 Preheat Your Skillet or Griddle Properly
Pancakes cook best on a medium-hot, evenly heated surface. A few drops of water should “dance” on the surface if it’s ready.
🔁 Flip Only Once (Timing is Key)
Flip your pancakes only when bubbles appear and the edges are set. Flipping too early or too often ruins the texture.

🍓 Delicious Variations & Add-Ins for Buttermilk Pancake Recipe

Want to switch up your classic buttermilk pancake recipe? Try these irresistible flavor-packed pancake variations that add fun, texture, and nutrients to your morning stack! These pancake add-ins make breakfast extra special.

🫐Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes
Add ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries directly into the batter. Blueberries burst with flavor and are packed with antioxidants, making this a healthy and kid-friendly pancake idea.
🍫Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Add ⅓ cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet, dessert-like treat. Great for weekend brunch or special occasions. Try dark chocolate for a richer flavor and extra antioxidants.
🍌Banana Nut Pancakes
Mash 1 ripe banana into the batter and sprinkle in chopped walnuts or pecans. A delicious and hearty option that’s perfect for fall or cozy mornings.
💪High-Protein Pancakes
Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt to the batter. These protein-packed pancakes are ideal for a post-workout breakfast or busy mornings.

Suggested:

Keto Vegetarian Recipes

🍽️ Best Serving Suggestions for Buttermilk Pancakes

Wondering what to serve with fluffy buttermilk pancakes? These delicious topping ideas and sides will take your pancakes to the next level.

🥞 Classic Maple Syrup & Butter

You can’t go wrong with this timeless combo. Use 100% pure maple syrup for the best flavor and drizzle it over warm pancakes with a pat of melting butter.
🍓 Fresh Berries & Whipped Cream

Add a splash of color and freshness with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. A spoonful of homemade whipped cream makes it even better.
🥓 Savory Side: Bacon or Sausage

The salty crunch of bacon or savory sausage links pairs perfectly with the soft sweetness of buttermilk pancakes for a balanced breakfast.
🍌 Peanut Butter & Banana Slices

For a protein-rich twist, spread creamy peanut butter between layers and top with banana slices. Ideal for post-workout breakfasts!
🍫 Chocolate Chips or Nutella

For a kid-friendly (and adult-approved) treat, sprinkle in chocolate chips or spread Nutella for a rich, dessert-style pancake.

Suggested:

High Protein Low Calorie Recipes

🥞 How to Store, Freeze & Reheat Buttermilk Pancakes

📌 Storing in the Refrigerator

Let pancakes cool to room temperature.
Stack with parchment paper between each to avoid sticking.
Place in an airtight container or zip-lock bag.
Best within 3–4 days when refrigerated properly.

❄️ Freezing Buttermilk Pancakes

Allow pancakes to cool completely after cooking.
Layer them between wax or parchment paper.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freezes well for up to 2 months without losing texture.
Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts and busy mornings!

🔥 Best Ways to Reheat Pancakes

Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 20–30 seconds.
Toaster: Pop in a toaster for a crispy outside.
Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes wrapped in foil.
Avoid overcooking to preserve fluffiness and moisture.

Easy Breakfast Ideas

Yield: 12

Fluffy Buttermilk Pancake Recipe

These fluffy buttermilk pancakes are the ultimate comfort breakfast—light, airy, golden, and delicious with every bite. Perfectly sweet and buttery, they’re great with maple syrup, fruits, or your favorite toppings. A family favorite and a weekend must-have!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

2 cups buttermilk (shake well before using)
2 large eggs
¼ cup melted unsalted butter (plus more for greasing the pan)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
Combine:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be lumpy.
Preheat and Grease Pan:
Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
Cook the Pancakes:
Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the hot skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2–3 minutes). Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.
Serve Hot:
Serve immediately with butter, syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

No buttermilk? Make your own: Mix 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Don’t overmix the batter—lumps are good! Overmixing makes pancakes tough.
Keep pancakes warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while cooking the rest.
For extra fluffiness, let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking.
Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for the best rise.

Serving Suggestions:

Drizzle with warm maple syrup
Add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of powdered sugar
Top with sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries
Add a spoon of whipped cream or Greek yogurt
Serve with crispy bacon or scrambled eggs on the side

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 295Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 86mgSodium: 729mgCarbohydrates: 41gFiber: 1gSugar: 8gProtein: 9g

Layered Dessert Recipes

🥞 Frequently Asked Questions About Buttermilk Pancakes

1. Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk in pancakes?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but it won’t create the same fluffy texture. For best results, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This makes a quick homemade buttermilk that helps activate the baking soda and makes your pancakes light and airy.

2. Why are my buttermilk pancakes not fluffy?

Overmixing the batter is a common culprit! Stir until the ingredients are combined. Also, make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh and active. Buttermilk helps with the rising, so don’t skip it. Cook the pancakes over medium heat for even browning and perfect rising.

3. How can I make this pancake recipe dairy-free?

You can swap the buttermilk with a plant-based version. Use soy or almond milk mixed with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to mimic the tang of buttermilk. Substitute melted coconut oil or vegan butter for the regular butter.

4. Can I freeze homemade buttermilk pancakes?

Let pancakes cool completely, then place parchment paper between them and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for quick and easy breakfasts any day of the week.

5. What’s the best way to cook pancakes evenly every time?

Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour the batter using a measuring cup for uniform sizes. Wait for bubbles to form on top before flipping.

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