There’s nothing quite like the joy of a stack of golden-brown pancakes to start your day. The sizzle, the aroma, the anticipation – it’s a breakfast ritual that warms the heart. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, kids (and adults) of all ages can’t resist a stack of fresh-off-the griddle pancakes, ready to be drenched in maple syrup or topped with a medley of berries.
We know mornings can be hectic, and mastering the perfect pancake can feel overwhelming. That’s where Krusteaz steps in. With our pancake mixes, you can enjoy the comforting taste of homemade pancakes without the fuss of complicated recipes. Just grab your favorite Krusteaz pancake mix – whether it’s Buttermilk, Blueberry, or even Pumpkin Spice – add water, and then whisk, pour, and flip! In a matter of minutes, you’ll be enjoying a plate full of tasty pancakes.
In this article, we share our tips and tricks for making perfect pancakes with our mixes so that you can serve up a plate of happiness any day of the week.
1. Have Your Pancake Toppings Ready
Before you even think about whipping up that pancake batter, here’s a pro-tip: have your toppings prepped and ready to go. Having everything in place sets the stage for a seamless cooking experience. Whether it’s the classic combo of maple syrup and butter, sliced bananas and almonds, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream, having your toppings ready ensures that your pancakes hit the plate hot and fresh, without any unnecessary delays.
2. Mix The Pancake Batter
Now that your toppings are prepped, let’s talk about the star of the show – the pancake batter. With Krusteaz pancake mixes, the mixing process is as easy as it gets. Most of our mixes, except for the Gluten Free Buttermilk Pancake Mix, only demand the addition of water, making your breakfast prep a breeze.
For the perfect consistency, consider using cold tap water; it makes them more fluffy. When it comes to mixing, keep it simple. Gently combine the mix and water, avoiding the temptation to overmix. A few lumps are absolutely okay – they contribute to the fluffiness of your pancakes. So, embrace the easy hand-mixing approach, and you’ll be on your way to pancake perfection in no time.
3. Let The Batter Rest While The Griddle Heats
After mixing your pancake batter, exercise a bit of patience – let it rest for about two minutes. This seemingly small step is a game-changer, allowing the leavening to kick in to create fluffy pancakes.
While the batter takes its breather, focus on prepping your cooking surface. For the perfect pancake, set your griddle or pan to medium heat (around 375° F). A little trial and error might be needed to find the sweet spot on your stovetop, but aim for a temperature that allows the pancakes to cook through without burning on the outside. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil. Cooking in melted butter results in crispy edges. Wiping the grease from the pan results in evenly brown pancakes.
Keep in mind that the first batch might require a touch more grease, and it’s perfectly normal for the initial pancake to serve as a “test” – a warm-up for both the cook and the griddle. As you proceed, adding a bit of butter or oil between batches will help prevent sticking and ensure a flawless, golden finish on each pancake.
4. Spoon, Pour, Or Scoop The Batter
Once your batter is rested and the griddle is ready, it’s time to pour out the batter, one pancake at a time. Pouring approximately ¼ cup of batter for each pancake helps maintain uniformity and ensures even cooking.
To make this task even easier, consider using a cookie or muffin scoop. These tools provide precise measurements and minimize mess. If you don’t have a scoop handy, a measuring cup can do the trick.
When pouring the batter onto your preheated surface, aim for the center and allow it to naturally spread into a circular shape. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and easy flipping. With the right tools and techniques, portioning and pouring become effortless, resulting in a stack of perfectly sized pancakes that will delight both your taste buds and your guests. So, scoop, pour, and watch your breakfast dreams come to life, one perfectly portioned pancake at a time.
5. Add Your Toppings And Flip
Now that your pancakes are sizzling away on the griddle, it’s time for the art of the flip. Wait until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges begin to set – this typically takes about 90 seconds – before gently sliding your spatula underneath. With a swift yet careful motion, flip the pancake, revealing that perfect golden-brown hue on the other side. Allow the second side to cook until it matches the same level of golden perfection. Don’t pat your pancakes once you’ve flipped them. This can deflate all the beautiful fluffiness they are meant to have.
Want to add a little extra fun to your classic buttermilk pancakes? Try adding things like chocolate chips or blueberries directly into the batter once it’s on the griddle. This method helps ensure an even distribution of flavor. As the batter begins to set on the uncooked side, place your desired toppings gently, allowing them to become part of the pancake. Here are some of our favorite ingredients to add to pancake batter this way:
- Chocolate chips
- Blueberries
- Sliced bananas
- Chopped nuts
- Mini marshmallows
- Sprinkles
Whether you go for the classic flip or elevate your pancakes with creative toppings, each step adds a touch of culinary finesse to your breakfast creation. So, flip with confidence, experiment with toppings, and enjoy the art of making pancakes.
Put These Tips To The Test
Krusteaz pancake mixes offer both the allure of homemade flavor and the convenience of simple preparation, making breakfast a delightful experience any day of the week. With our easy-to-follow tips, from mixing the batter to mastering the flip, crafting perfect pancakes has never been easier.
Now, it’s your turn to put these tips to the test! Explore our wide range of recipes or shop our pancake mixes. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, let Krusteaz help you turn your pancake breakfast (or lunch or dinner!) into an easy, convenient, and delicious moment for your entire family.
Pancake FAQs
Can you use milk instead of water for pancakes?
You sure can! Instead of water, you can use any kind of milk, including almond milk and coconut milk, to mix up the pancake batter. Some Makers prefer the flavor of our pancakes when you use milk instead of water. Using milk will cause the pancakes to become a darker color.
Can you add an egg to pancake mixes?
Yes. While an egg is not needed to make our pancakes light and fluffy, some Makers prefer the texture you get when you add an egg to the batter.
How to make pancakes all the same size?
To make pancakes uniform in size, use a consistent measuring tool like a ¼ cup or a cookie/muffin scoop. This ensures each pancake gets an equal amount of batter.
Can you make pancake batter the night before?
Yes, you can make the batter the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a quick stir before cooking. Pancake batter can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can you freeze pancake batter?
While technically it’s possible to freeze pancake batter, we recommend making it fresh when you need it. Our pancake batter is incredibly easy to make. With our convenient mixes, you can whip up a delicious batch of pancakes in just a few minutes, without the need for advanced preparation or freezing.
Does Krusteaz have gluten free pancakes?
Yes, Krusteaz offers a Gluten Free Buttermilk Pancake Mix for those seeking a gluten free breakfast option.
How to reheat frozen pancakes?
You can reheat frozen pancakes in a toaster, oven, or microwave until warmed through. We recommend using a microwave to avoid drying out the pancakes.
Can pancake mix be used to make waffles?
Yes, pancake mix can be used to make waffles. Read our full guide on how to make waffles from pancake mix for helpful tips and tricks.
How to make mini pancakes?
For mini pancakes, use a smaller amount of batter and cook them in bite-sized dollops on the griddle. Or use a squeeze bottle and make pancake cereal!
What to serve with pancakes?
Pancakes are often served with a variety of side dishes, including fresh fruits such as berries or bananas, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, and hash browns.
What to add in pancake mix?
Get creative! Add-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, sliced bananas, or nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of your pancakes. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
