Are you craving fluffy, delicious pancakes but don't want to make a whole batch? This recipe for pancakes for one person is the perfect solution! Forget about leftover pancakes getting stale – this recipe lets you enjoy a warm, satisfying breakfast or snack anytime, without the commitment. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly quick and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings. Let's dive into this simple recipe for homemade cooking bliss!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to your preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind works!)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended!)
Instructions:
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, preventing lumps in your pancakes.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using).
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough pancakes.
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Heat the Pan: Heat a lightly oiled non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. You'll know it's ready when a drop of water sizzles on the surface.
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Cook the Pancakes: Pour 1/4 of the batter onto the hot pan for each pancake. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip when bubbles start to appear on the surface and the edges look set.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your mini pancake immediately with your favorite toppings! Think fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pancakes:
- Don't overmix the batter: This is crucial for light and fluffy pancakes.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes: This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in even more tender pancakes.
- Adjust the heat as needed: If your pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat. If they're taking too long to cook, increase the heat slightly.
- Use a non-stick pan: This prevents sticking and makes flipping easier.
Delicious Variations:
- Blueberry Pancakes: Fold in 1 tablespoon of blueberries to the batter before cooking.
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips to the batter.
- Banana Pancakes: Mash 1/4 of a ripe banana into the batter for extra sweetness and moisture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per pancake):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-7g
This recipe is a great example of quick dinner ideas or a satisfying breakfast, perfect for healthy meals on the go. It’s a delicious dish that's easy to customize, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. Enjoy your perfectly portioned pancake!