Fluffy Japanese-Style Pancakes
These pillowy, golden pancakes are soft, slightly sweet, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit and a drizzle of chocolate or maple syrup. Easy to make and sure to impress!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes about 8 mini pancakes)
Ingredients
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup (180ml) milk (any kind)
1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice (to activate the baking soda)
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp melted butter or oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
Instructions
Prepare the Wet Mix
In a bowl, mix the milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly—this creates a homemade buttermilk.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine
Add the egg, vanilla, and melted butter to the milk mixture. Whisk to combine.
Make the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix—some lumps are okay.
Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick pan over low-medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden.
Serve
Serve warm with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can make the pancakes dense and chewy. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
Use Low to Medium Heat
Cooking on low-medium heat ensures the pancakes cook through without burning the outside.
Let the Batter Rest
Letting the batter rest for 5–10 minutes helps activate the baking agents, making the pancakes fluffier.
Use a Non-Stick Pan or Griddle
A smooth, non-stick surface ensures easy flipping and even browning.
Measure Consistently
Use an ice cream scoop or a measuring cup for uniform pancake size.
Cover While Cooking (Optional)
Covering the pan for the first 1–2 minutes of cooking can help make them puffier.
Delicious Variations
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for melty pockets of sweetness.
Fruit-Filled Pancakes
Mix in blueberries, sliced bananas, or diced strawberries directly into the batter.
Matcha Pancakes
Add 1–2 tsp of matcha powder for a green tea flavor and color.
Cinnamon Swirl
Swirl in a cinnamon-sugar mix before flipping for a sweet, spiced version.
Stuffed Pancakes
Place a spoonful of Nutella, peanut butter, or jam between two thin layers of batter on the pan before flipping.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based milk, skip the egg (replace with 1 tbsp chia or flaxseed + 3 tbsp water), and substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Savory Pancakes
Omit the sugar and vanilla, and add chopped herbs, cheese, or cooked beef for a savory twist.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: It’s best to cook pancakes fresh, but you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time. If you refrigerate the batter, use it within a day and stir gently before cooking.
Q: Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
A: Overmixing, old baking powder/soda, or cooking at too high a heat can make pancakes flat. Use fresh leavening agents and don’t over-stir.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes! Let them cool, then stack with parchment paper between each. Freeze in a zip bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the toaster or microwave.
Q: What milk works best?
A: Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, soy, etc. Full-fat options yield richer pancakes.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add 1/4 tsp xanthan gum if the mix doesn’t already include it.
Basic Nutrition (Per Pancake, approx.)
(Note: Will vary slightly based on ingredients used)
Calories: 90–110
Carbs: 14g
Protein: 2.5g
Fat: 3.5g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
For a healthier version, try whole wheat flour, reduce sugar, and cook with minimal oil.
Conclusion
These golden, fluffy pancakes are a beautiful way to start your day or celebrate a cozy moment. Whether enjoyed with a drizzle of chocolate, a dollop of jam, or simply plain, they’re sure to be a hit. With easy customization and simple ingredients, you can make them your own again and again.
Happy cooking—and even happier eating!