In grandma’s kitchen, pancakes weren’t just for Saturday mornings — they were a celebration of slow breakfasts, warm syrup, and second helpings. Made from scratch with real buttermilk, her pancakes were perfectly fluffy inside, lightly crisped outside, and stacked high with love.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to recreate grandma’s legendary buttermilk pancakes — from ingredients and tips to flipping techniques and delicious topping ideas.
Why Buttermilk Pancakes Are Extra Special
Buttermilk isn’t just a fancy ingredient — it’s the key to pancakes that are:
- Incredibly fluffy and tender
- Slightly tangy for balance
- Golden brown with a delicate crust
- Perfect with sweet or savory toppings
Grandma never used boxed mixes — and after this, neither will you.
Ingredients for Classic Buttermilk Pancakes
This recipe makes 10–12 medium pancakes (serves 3–4).
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 (or substitute below)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter (plus more for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Buttermilk Substitute (if needed):
- 2 cups milk + 2 tablespoons lemon juice or white vinegar
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes to curdle before using
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix well.
3. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined — a few small lumps are fine. Do not overmix, or your pancakes will be tough.
Grandma’s Tip: Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes while you heat the pan. This makes the pancakes even fluffier.
4. Heat and Grease the Pan
Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
The surface is ready when a drop of water sizzles and dances on it.
5. Cook the Pancakes
Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot skillet.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
6. Serve Warm
Transfer pancakes to a plate and keep warm. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Topping Ideas Grandma Would Approve
- Classic butter and maple syrup
- Fresh berries and whipped cream
- Sliced bananas and chopped nuts
- Jam or fruit preserves
- Peanut butter and honey
- Powdered sugar and lemon juice
- Or grandma’s favorite: apple compote with cinnamon
Tips for Perfect Pancakes Every Time
- Use fresh baking powder/soda — old leavening won’t rise
- Don’t overmix — it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy
- Let the batter rest — helps gluten relax and bubbles form
- Wipe skillet between batches to prevent burnt butter flavor
- Flip only once — flipping multiple times deflates the pancakes
How to Keep Pancakes Warm
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 95°C (200°F) oven while you finish cooking the batch. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Refrigerate:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze:
- Let pancakes cool completely, then stack with parchment between and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat:
- Toast or microwave for a quick breakfast
- Or warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) until heated through
Variations to Try
- Blueberry Pancakes: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Stir in mini chocolate chips
- Savory Herb Pancakes: Add grated cheese and chives
- Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes: Drizzle cinnamon-sugar mixture on top while cooking
- Pumpkin Pancakes: Add ½ cup pumpkin puree + pumpkin spice blend
Final Thoughts: A Stack of Happiness
There’s something magical about a stack of warm pancakes, made from scratch just like grandma used to do. They’re simple, comforting, and perfect for any day that needs a little extra joy.
Whether it’s Sunday morning with the whole family or a quiet breakfast for one, these fluffy buttermilk pancakes are a reminder that some of life’s best moments are cooked in a skillet.