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Small-Batch Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe

4.5 from 102 reviews

These Small-Batch Buttermilk Pancakes are the perfect quick and easy breakfast for one or two people. Made with a tender, fluffy batter incorporating buttermilk and a hint of vanilla, these pancakes deliver classic flavor and texture. Cooked on a skillet and ready in under 20 minutes, they are ideal for a cozy weekend morning or whenever you’re craving fresh homemade pancakes without making a large batch.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cane sugar (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

For Cooking

  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cane sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, room temperature egg, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; the batter should be slightly lumpy but without any flour streaks.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or ghee, swirling to coat the surface evenly.
  4. Cook Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot skillet. Cook until small bubbles form on the surface, then flip carefully. Cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes or until both sides are golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Serve: Remove pancakes from the skillet and enjoy immediately with your favorite toppings such as butter, syrup, or fresh fruit.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs for better batter incorporation.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep pancakes light and fluffy.
  • Adjust heat to prevent burning; medium heat works best.
  • You can substitute milk plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar for buttermilk if needed.
  • Cast-iron skillet works great for even heat distribution, but a non-stick pan can also be used.

Keywords: buttermilk pancakes, small-batch recipe, fluffy pancakes, breakfast, skillet pancakes, easy pancakes