There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of freshly made pancakes, especially when they’re just like the ones from your favorite local spot. I’ve always loved the Original Pancake House for their fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth creations, and I wanted to bring that experience right into my kitchen.
Ingredients
To recreate the fluffy goodness of Original Pancake House pancakes, gather the following ingredients.
Pancake Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh blueberries
- Sliced bananas
- Chocolate chips
- Crumbled bacon
- Chopped nuts
Equipment
To recreate the fluffy perfection of Original Pancake House pancakes, having the right tools makes all the difference.
Required Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for separating wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: A sturdy whisk ensures a smooth batter without lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for the perfect texture.
- Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: Provides an even cooking surface to achieve golden-brown pancakes.
- Spatula: A wide, flat spatula makes flipping pancakes effortless.
- Ladle or Measuring Cup: For pouring consistent pancake batter onto the skillet.
Instructions
Recreating these pancakes at home is straightforward. Follow my detailed steps to achieve that perfect Original Pancake House texture and flavor.
Prep
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Prepare Wet Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 1¼ cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mix Batter
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Gently stir until just combined; the batter should be slightly lumpy.
- If adding extras like blueberries or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
Cook
- Heat the Griddle
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water—if they dance and evaporate, it’s ready.
- Pour the Batter
- Use a ladle or measuring cup to pour ¼ cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake.
- Leave space between pancakes to allow spreading.
- Cook Until Bubbly
- Let the pancakes cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip and Cook Through
- Carefully flip the pancakes with a wide spatula.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve Immediately
- Stack the pancakes on a warm plate.
- Serve with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a pat of butter.
Make-Ahead Tips
As a chef passionate about baking and creating delightful meals, I know how valuable make-ahead strategies can be, especially on busy mornings. Here are my top tips to ensure your Original Pancake House copycats are just as fluffy and delicious when you’re ready to serve them.
Prepare the Batter in Advance
Making the batter ahead of time can save you precious minutes in the morning.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- Cover and Refrigerate: Transfer the batter to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the batter to thicken slightly, resulting in extra fluffy pancakes.
Freeze Pre-Cooked Pancakes
Cooking pancakes in advance and freezing them is a game-changer for quick breakfasts.
- Cook the Pancakes: Follow the recipe instructions to cook your pancakes until they are golden brown.
- Cool Completely: Let the pancakes cool on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Freeze in a Single Layer: Place the cooled pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 2 hours.
- Store in a Freezer Bag: Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a resealable freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Frozen Pancakes
To enjoy your pancakes at their best after freezing:
- Thaw Overnight: Move the desired number of pancakes from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before.
- Reheat on the Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the thawed pancakes on the skillet and warm for about 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.
- Alternatively, Use the Microwave: Place pancakes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds until warm.
Quick Tips for Freshness
- Store Batter Properly: Always keep the batter refrigerated and give it a quick stir before cooking, as some separation may occur.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients, especially buttermilk and eggs, ensure the best texture and flavor even when preparing ahead.
- Label Freezer Bags: Date your frozen pancakes to keep track of their freshness and ensure you enjoy them at their peak quality.
| Make-Ahead Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Prepare batter in advance | Saves morning prep time |
| Freeze pre-cooked pancakes | Provides quick breakfast options |
| Reheat using stovetop or microwave | Maintains pancake fluffiness and warmth |
| Store batter properly | Preserves flavor and texture |
By incorporating these make-ahead tips, you can effortlessly enjoy restaurant-quality pancakes any day of the week. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a comforting stack, these strategies ensure your pancakes are always ready to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Once I’ve perfected my Original Pancake House copycat pancakes, I love elevating them with creative and delicious serving ideas. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy these fluffy stacks:
Classic Maple Syrup and Butter
There’s nothing quite like a pat of melting butter slowly sliding over warm pancakes, followed by a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. The combination creates a rich, buttery flavor that perfectly complements the lightness of the pancakes.
Fresh Fruit Medley
Adding a burst of freshness can take your pancakes to the next level. I often top mine with a vibrant mix of:
- Sliced Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Banana Slices
- Raspberries
The natural sweetness and juiciness of the fruit balance the pancake’s texture beautifully.
Nutty Crunch
For an added layer of texture, sprinkle a handful of toasted nuts. My favorites include:
- Walnuts
- Pecans
- Almonds
The crunch from the nuts provides a delightful contrast to the soft pancakes.
Whipped Cream and Chocolate Chips
For a treat that’s both creamy and chocolaty, I like to add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips. The creamy texture and sweet chocolate pieces make each bite decadent and indulgent.
Savory Twist with Bacon
Sometimes I switch things up by going savory. Crispy bacon strips on top of pancakes create a wonderful sweet and salty combination that’s utterly satisfying.
Lemon Zest and Honey
A lighter option involves grating fresh lemon zest over the pancakes and drizzling with honey. The citrusy aroma and floral sweetness offer a refreshing take on the traditional toppings.
Yogurt and Granola
For a healthier option, I pair my pancakes with a scoop of Greek yogurt and a handful of crunchy granola. This combination adds creaminess and a satisfying crunch, making for a balanced and nutritious meal.
Seasonal Compotes
Depending on the time of year, I love adding seasonal fruit compotes. In the fall, a warm apple cinnamon compote is perfect, while in the summer, a berry medley brings vibrant color and flavor.
Nutella and Banana
Spreading a layer of Nutella and adding banana slices creates a luscious and indulgent treat. The rich chocolate-hazelnut spread pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas and the pancake’s fluffiness.
Vanilla Ice Cream
For an ultimate breakfast-for-dessert experience, I sometimes serve pancakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melting into the warm pancakes is pure bliss.
Espresso or Coffee
Pairing pancakes with a strong cup of espresso or your favorite coffee blend enhances the meal with a robust and aromatic flavor, making it a perfect morning pick-me-up.
Experimenting with these serving suggestions allows me to enjoy my favorite pancakes in new and exciting ways. Whether you prefer classic sweet toppings or adventurous savory options, there’s a perfect combination waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
Bringing the Original Pancake House into my kitchen has been a delightful adventure. There’s something special about flipping those golden fluffy pancakes and seeing smiles around the table. Playing with different toppings lets me tailor each breakfast to match my mood. Whether adding fresh berries or a drizzle of honey the possibilities are endless. It’s wonderful knowing I can enjoy restaurant-quality pancakes anytime. Sharing this recipe with friends and family makes mornings even more enjoyable. I hope you find as much joy in making these pancakes as I do and create your own memorable breakfast moments.
