Pancakes - simple basic recipe

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Simple basic recipe for classic pancakes. Ready in 30 minutes, versatile for both sweet and savory variations. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Rehan Magic House Recipes
Updated on Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:29:07 GMT
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These light and tender pancakes combine a golden-brown, crispy exterior with a fluffy interior. The versatile basic recipe is perfect for sweet and savory variations and transforms simple ingredients into a delicious dish for any time of day.

In my kitchen, this basic recipe has been tested for years. Especially the secret of the carbonated water makes the pancakes incomparably light.

Carefully Selected Ingredients

  • Flour: Type 405 for fine texture
  • Eggs: Room temperature for optimal binding
  • Carbonated water: With plenty of fizz for lightness
  • Milk: Full fat for silky consistency
  • Oil: Neutral in flavor
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Detailed Preparation

Batter Preparation:
Carefully sift flour. Use ingredients at room temperature. Mix until lump free. Let rest.
Pan Preparation:
Preheat properly. Distribute oil thinly. Check temperature. Swirl evenly.
Cooking Process:
Spread batter thinly. Watch edges. Flip carefully. Cook until golden brown.
Keeping Warm:
Stack and cover. Maintain temperature. Separate between layers. Serve immediately.

In my family, everyone has developed their favorite variation. The versatility makes these pancakes the perfect family meal.

Perfect Accompaniments

Serve the pancakes with classic cinnamon and sugar. Fresh fruits and whipped cream turn them into dessert. For the savory version, cheese and ham are suitable. An herb filling with cream cheese creates a light meal.

Creative Variations

The basic version can be wonderfully adapted. Apple slices in the batter create an autumnal delight. Spinach and ricotta make them Italian. A version with buckwheat brings rustic flavor. For chocolate fans, cocoa powder in the batter is suitable.

Optimal Storage

The pancakes stay warm stacked and covered. Placing parchment paper between layers prevents sticking. The batter can rest in the refrigerator for one day. Finished pancakes can also be frozen.

Time Management

You can prepare the batter the day before. Bring ingredients to room temperature in advance. Prepare fillings in parallel. This organization makes cooking relaxed.

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Practical Tips

The right pan temperature is crucial. Too high heat burns the pancakes, too low makes them tough. A test pancake helps with the adjustment. Do not forget the resting time for the batter.

After years of experience with various pancake recipes, this version has proven to be the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The combination of light texture and versatile variation possibilities makes this basic recipe a timeless classic. I find it particularly fascinating how few, basic ingredients can create such a delicious result.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why does the batter need to rest?
Resting allows the flour to absorb liquid and helps ingredients bind better. This makes the pancakes fluffier and more tender.
→ Can I add sparkling water?
Yes, the carbonation makes the batter lighter and results in fluffier pancakes.
→ Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, the batter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just stir briefly before using.
→ Why is the first pancake often not perfect?
The pan needs to reach the right temperature and develop a thin coating of fat before pancakes will turn out perfectly.
→ What fillings work well?
The neutral batter works well with sweet (jam, Nutella) and savory (cheese, ham) fillings.

Classic Pancakes

Classic recipe for fluffy pancakes - perfect for sweet and savory fillings. A versatile recipe that works for any time of day.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Reham

Category: Breakfast & Brunch

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: International

Yield: 4 Servings (5-6 pancakes)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Pancake batter

01 1¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
02 1 cup (250ml) whole milk (3.5-3.8% fat)
03 3 large eggs
04 1 tablespoon sparkling water
05 1 pinch of salt

→ For cooking

06 5 teaspoons vegetable oil or clarified butter (ghee), divided

Instructions

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and milk, whisking until completely smooth with no lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Finish by stirring in the sparkling water, which helps create a lighter texture.

Step 02

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest in the refrigerator for 10-30 minutes. This important step allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to relax, resulting in more tender pancakes.

Step 03

Heat a 10-inch (26cm) non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add about 1 teaspoon of oil or clarified butter and swirl to coat the pan. Pour approximately ⅓ cup of batter into the center of the pan, then quickly tilt and rotate the pan to spread the batter into a thin, even layer. Cook until the edges begin to brown and the center is set, about 1 minute. Flip with a thin spatula and cook the other side for about 30 seconds until golden spots appear.

Step 04

Transfer finished pancakes to an oven-safe plate and keep warm in a preheated oven at 140°F (60°C) while you cook the remaining pancakes. Add a small amount of oil or clarified butter to the pan before cooking each pancake.

Notes

  1. This versatile basic recipe yields 5-6 thin pancakes using a 10-inch (26cm) pan. The neutral flavor works beautifully with both sweet toppings like fruit, Nutella, or maple syrup, and savory fillings such as ham and cheese, sautéed vegetables, or smoked salmon.

Tools You'll Need

  • 10-inch (26cm) non-stick skillet
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Thin spatula for flipping
  • Ladle or measuring cup for portioning batter

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains gluten
  • Contains dairy products
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~