Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups (190g) All-purpose flour
- 3.5 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tbsp White sugar
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 1.25 cups (300ml) Whole milk
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice or White vinegar
- 1 Large egg
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Start by adding 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar to your 300ml of whole milk. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. Note: This creates a thickened, slightly curdled liquid that mimics buttermilk and provides the acid needed for lift.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the 190g of flour, 3.5 tsp baking powder, 1 tbsp sugar, and 0.5 tsp salt. Note: Whisking the dry ingredients first ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed so you don't get huge bubbles in one pancake and none in the next.
- In a separate smaller bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the melted and cooled butter and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Add this to your soured milk. Note: Mixing the fats and aromatics into the milk first ensures they integrate smoothly into the flour later.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Use a spoon or whisk to fold it together until just combined. Stop when the flour streaks disappear. Note: Lumps are your friend; they will steam and disappear during the cooking process.
- Heat your skillet over medium high heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Wait until the butter sizzles and stops foaming before adding the batter.
- Scoop 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until you see bubbles forming and popping on the surface.
- Slide your spatula under the pancake and flip in one quick motion. Do not press down on the pancake with the spatula. Note: Pressing the pancake squeezes out the air you just worked so hard to create.
- Cook the second side for another 1 to 2 minutes until it is golden brown and the edges feel set.
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a wire rack or a warm oven (set to 200°F/90°C) while you finish the rest of the batter. Note: Placing them on a wire rack prevents the bottom from getting soggy due to trapped steam.