Pancake Mix from Scratch – Oh, that irresistible aroma of fresh pancakes wafting through the house on a lazy Saturday morning – it’s truly the ultimate wake-up call, isn’t it? For years, I, like many, leaned heavily on those convenient boxed mixes, convinced they were the secret to instant breakfast bliss. But then, one crisp morning, staring at an empty box with a serious pancake craving hitting hard, I had my culinary epiphany: I already had all the simple ingredients right there in my pantry!
What began as a moment of pure necessity quickly blossomed into a cherished kitchen ritual, transforming my breakfast game entirely. Creating your own `Pancake Mix from Scratch` isn’t just about cutting down on grocery runs; it’s about reclaiming a little piece of kitchen magic, allowing you to ensure every fluffy, golden bite is crafted with love and the best, most wholesome ingredients. And while we often find ourselves debating the merits of a fluffy pancake versus a crispy waffle, today, our focus is firmly on perfecting that stack of golden goodness.
This simple Pancake Mix from Scratch, homemade blend has become my secret weapon for making every breakfast feel special, even on the busiest weekdays. It’s a testament to how easy and rewarding it can be to bake from scratch, a journey many others are also embarking on, discovering their own joy in creating a perfect pancake mix from scratch. I can’t wait to share this versatile pantry staple with you, promising to elevate your mornings one delicious pancake at a time.
Why You’ll Love This Pancake Mix from Scratch
There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from creating something wholesome from basic ingredients, and this homemade pancake mix is no exception. Beyond the sheer convenience of having a ready-to-go dry mix, it offers a level of control and quality that store-bought versions simply can’t match. You dictate what goes in: no weird preservatives, no artificial flavors, just pure, simple goodness. It makes for an incredibly fresh-tasting pancake, lighter and more flavorful than anything from a box. Plus, knowing exactly what your family is eating adds an extra sprinkle of peace of mind to that delicious breakfast. It’s also incredibly cost-effective, turning humble pantry staples into a gourmet-level breakfast experience without the gourmet price tag.
The Secret to Great Pancake Mix from Scratch
The real magic behind a truly great pancake mix lies in the delicate dance of its leavening agents. We’re using both baking powder and baking soda here, and they play distinct, crucial roles. Baking powder gives that initial lift, creating those signature fluffy bubbles as soon as the batter hits the hot griddle. Baking soda, on the other hand, needs an acid to activate. When you eventually add milk (or better yet, buttermilk!) to your homemade mix, the soda springs to life, adding a second layer of fluffiness and a tender crumb.
The balance is key; too much of either can leave an unpleasant aftertaste. My ‘family secret’ here is a tiny touch of extra sugar and a generous pinch of salt to truly enhance all those flavors, ensuring every pancake is perfectly balanced and utterly irresistible.
Pro Tips to Nail It Every Time
Making your own pancake mix is simple, but a few ‘pro’ tips can elevate your pancakes from good to unforgettable. First, always sift your dry ingredients together. This isn’t just about removing lumps; it evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring consistent rise and texture in every pancake. Second, consider the flour you use. While all-purpose is great, a blend of half all-purpose and half white whole wheat flour can add a lovely nuttiness and extra fiber without compromising fluffiness. Third, once you’ve mixed your wet and dry ingredients, resist the urge to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine; overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough, chewy pancakes.
Stir just until the ingredients are combined, then let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and the leavening agents to start their work, resulting in a lighter, airier pancake.
Fun Variations to Try Pancake Mix from Scratch
The beauty of a homemade pancake mix is how easily you can customize it! For a delightful twist, try a Lemon Poppy Seed Mix: add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds and the zest of one lemon to the dry mix. For a wholesome option, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you’re a chocolate lover (and who isn’t?), create a Chocolate Chip Pancake Mix by stirring in a cup of mini chocolate chips per batch of prepared batter. For fall or winter mornings, add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a wonderfully fragrant Spiced Pancake Mix.
These simple additions can transform your everyday breakfast into a delightful, new experience with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about knowing you’ve got a jar of homemade pancake mix waiting in the pantry, ready to transform into a stack of golden deliciousness at a moment’s notice. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a commitment to simpler, more wholesome eating and a testament to the joy of making things from scratch. This isn’t just about saving time; it’s about savoring those quiet morning moments, filling your home with the sweet aroma of cooking, and sharing a little bit of homemade love with those around your table. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this pancake mix. Your future self, and everyone you share these fluffy creations with, will thank you for it.
Pancake Mix from Scratch: Your New Favorite Pantry Staple
Course: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalWhip up your own fluffy pancake mix from scratch! This simple, adaptable recipe uses common pantry ingredients, making delicious homemade pancakes a breeze anytime.
Ingredients
6 cups all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Directions
- In a very large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined. For best results, you can sift the ingredients together.
- Transfer the mix to an airtight container (a large glass jar or sturdy plastic container works wonderfully). Label with the date and instructions for preparing pancakes.
- To prepare pancakes from the mix (for one batch, approximately 6-8 pancakes): In a separate medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of your homemade pancake mix with 1 large egg, 1 cup of milk (or buttermilk for extra fluffiness!), and 2 tablespoons of melted butter or vegetable oil.
- Whisk these wet ingredients into the dry mix just until combined. A few lumps are perfectly normal and desired! Do not overmix.
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles appear on the surface before flipping.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Notes
- Store It Right: Keep your homemade pancake mix in a cool, dark pantry in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Freshness is key for activated leavening and truly fluffy pancakes!
- Buttermilk Magic: For an extra tender crumb and a delightful tang, replace plain milk with buttermilk when preparing the pancakes. The acidity reacts beautifully with the baking soda for an incredible rise!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet ingredients with your dry mix, stir just until everything is combined. Lumps are your friend! Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tougher, less fluffy pancakes. Embrace the lumps!
