Here are a couple of pancake recipes that will get your day off to a great start.  The first one is a traditional pancake recipe and the second one is a healthier pancake recipe.  Try them both!  The key is to start with a hot skillet. I like a large electric flat grill where I can make half a dozen pancakes at once.  The other key to successful pancake experience is to not over-stir the batter and use it quickly once you mix it. The batter interacts and makes great pancakes if you stir it up and plop it onto a nice hot grill right away.  Cook just until bubbles begin to form and the first bubbles begin to pop. Flip once and let cook for a little longer – till golden brown on both sides.

I personally tend to like a runnier mixture than most recipes call for. I add a bit more water. If you use warm water the batter interaction will be more profound and the pancakes turn out a little nicer, in my experience.  Most pancake recipes I try are way too thick for my tastes. I like lighter pancakes, not thick ones.  Mix according to your personal tastes.

Traditional Pancake Recipe

1 Cup flour
½ tsp salt
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 Cup + milk (soured with 1 Tbsp vinegar) or substitute with real Buttermilk
1 egg, beaten
¼ Cup vegetable oil

Add vinegar to milk and set aside to allow the vinegar to interact with the milk while you mix the remaining ingredients.  This is optional. You can just use straight milk if you prefer.  Mix all dry ingredients thoroughly.  Add beaten egg, oil, and milk all at once. Stir together till mostly smooth.

Cook on PREHEATED griddle.  Test griddle by sprinkling with water. If drops dance and sizzle, heat is just right.

Note: if you use Buttermilk you will probably need to add some additional regular milk or water, the buttermilk alone will leave you with a very thick batter. And remember, I tend to like to add more milk or some warm water in addition to what is called for. Not a lot, but I prefer a thinner batter.

Healthy Pancakes

This recipe comes from a dear friend in Glenwood, Iowa, Rosella Blauer.

2 eggs
2 Cups milk
1 Tbsp Oil
1 Tbsp Vinegar
3 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp salt
½ Cup oatmeal
2 Cups whole wheat flour

Mix all dry ingredients. Combine egg, milk, oil and vinegar; add to dry ingredients, stirring until well combined. If too thick, add milk or water a small amount at a time. Place on hot griddle. Test heat of griddle by sprinkling with water. If water drops dance, heat is just right.