The Best Pancakes You'll Ever Make | Epicurious 101

Introduction

In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the process of making perfectly fluffy pancakes, inspired by professional chef Frank Proto from Epicurious. With his foolproof method, you’ll never have to settle for flat, lifeless pancakes again. Follow these steps to create light, airy stacks that are sure to impress.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To start making your pancakes, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
   • Flour
   • Sugar
   • Baking powder
   • Baking soda
   • Salt
2. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well mixed. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents which help the pancakes rise.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients:
   • Buttermilk
   • Egg
   • Melted butter
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
2. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula.
   • Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.

Step 5: Preheat the Cooking Surface

1. Heat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Brush with a little melted butter to ensure the pancakes don’t stick.

Step 6: Cook the Pancakes

1. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated griddle for each pancake.
2. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve pancakes warm with your choice of toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.
2. Consider stacking them high for a stunning presentation!

Conclusion

You’ve now mastered the art of making fluffy pancakes! Remember to gather all your ingredients beforehand, mix gently, and avoid overcooking. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors to make your pancake experience even more delightful. Happy cooking!