This copycat recipe recreates the light, fluffy pancakes that IHOP has served for decades, using a simple batter with a small amount of baking powder for lift. The trick is cooking them low and slow so they stay pale golden and cook through without burning. A batch is ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
1tbspgranulated sugarfine granules for even mixing
1tspbaking powderensure freshness
½tspbaking soda
¼tspsalt
1cupbuttermilkpreferably whole
1largeeggat room temperature
2tbspunsalted buttermelted and slightly cooled
1tspvanilla extract
Instructions
Start by combining dry ingredients — flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — in a mixing bowl. Whisk well to ensure even distribution.
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, gently whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the pancakes light and airy.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
Using a ladle, pour batter onto the skillet, forming pancakes of your desired size.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
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Notes
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of blueberries into the batter.
For a fluffier texture, separate the egg white from the yolk, whisk the white until soft peaks form, and fold it into the batter last.