How to Make Perfect Pancakes by Yourself

Learn to make fluffy pancakes from scratch with step-by-step instructions for young chefs.

1. Mix your dry ingredients. In your large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps - this is your pancake base that will make them fluffy!
2. Combine the wet ingredients. In your medium bowl, crack the egg and whisk it well. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it's smooth and creamy.
3. Create the magic batter. Pour your wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or whisk until just combined. The batter should look a little lumpy - that's perfect! Don't overmix or your pancakes will be tough.
4. Heat your pan. Ask a grown-up to help you heat your pan over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil. You'll know it's ready when a drop of water sizzles and dances on the surface.
5. Pour and watch the bubbles. Use your ladle to pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Watch for tiny bubbles to form all over the surface and the edges to look set - this usually takes 2-3 minutes.
6. The great flip. When you see those bubbles and the bottom is golden brown, it's time to flip! Slide your spatula under the pancake and flip it quickly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is golden too.