There is something irresistibly comforting about a stack of pancakes that are perfectly light, airy, and tender—the kind you can proudly call your own Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe. This classic breakfast treat combines simple kitchen staples in a way that yields pancakes with a golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a weekend morning or impress guests with a timeless recipe, these pancakes deliver warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe shines because of its straightforward list of ingredients, each chosen carefully to create the ideal texture, subtle sweetness, and classic flavor. Let’s walk through the essentials that make this recipe so special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and tenderness for fluffy pancakes.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tanginess of the buttermilk.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the pancakes their rise and fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the buttermilk to create a light, airy batter.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 2 cups buttermilk: Essential for moisture and tender crumb, lending a subtle tanginess.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a rich texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled: Adds richness and flavor, keeping pancakes moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely aroma and depth to the batter.
- Additional butter or oil for frying: Ensures a golden, non-stick surface for perfect pancakes.
How to Make Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures all the leavening agents and seasonings are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent fluffiness throughout your pancakes.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the buttermilk and eggs until thoroughly combined. Then stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract. This moist mixture will bring richness and a subtle sweetness to your batter.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Make a well in the middle of your dry ingredients and gently pour in the wet mixture. Stir just until the flour is moistened—don’t worry if the batter looks a bit lumpy. Overmixing can make your pancakes tough, so handle with care!
Step 4: Let the Batter Rest
Allow the batter to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets the flour hydrate fully and activates the leaveners, giving your pancakes that signature fluffiness that makes this Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe so beloved.
Step 5: Prepare Your Cooking Surface
Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, then lightly grease it with butter or a bit of oil. The right temperature is important for pancakes to cook evenly and achieve a beautifully golden crust.
Step 6: Cook the Pancakes
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto your skillet. Cook until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look firm—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the other side is an irresistible golden brown. Your kitchen should start to smell amazing by now!
Step 8: Repeat Until All Batter Is Used
Continue cooking the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed. Keeping the pan lightly greased helps every pancake come out perfectly tender and golden.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your pancakes warm, topped with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or any favorite toppings. This final touch brings everything together for a mouthwatering breakfast experience.
How to Serve Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe

Garnishes
One of the joys of this Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe is how perfectly it pairs with a variety of garnishes. Classic maple syrup is a must, adding that cozy sweetness. Fresh berries offer a burst of natural freshness, while a pat of melting butter adds richness. If you want a twist, try dolloping whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra-special touch.
Side Dishes
Complement your pancakes with classic breakfast sides like crispy bacon, savory sausage links, or fluffy scrambled eggs. A simple fruit salad or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice brings balance and brightens the plate beautifully. These sides turn your stack of pancakes into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your pancake presentation by layering them with mascarpone cheese and sliced strawberries between each pancake for a mini pancake cake. Or sprinkle powdered sugar and edible flowers for a charming brunch vibe. For kids or festive occasions, cut pancakes into fun shapes with cookie cutters—adding a playful and inviting element to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers from your Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Place a paper towel between layers to keep them from sticking and to absorb any moisture.
Freezing
Pancakes freeze wonderfully! To freeze, cool them completely on a wire rack, then layer between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They stay fresh for up to 2 months and make for a quick breakfast fix.
Reheating
To reheat, pop pancakes in the toaster or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. If microwaving, cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. This way, your pancakes stay just as fluffy and delicious as when they were first made.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk can be used, buttermilk is key for that tangy flavor and the pancakes’ extra fluffiness because of its acidity reacting with the baking soda. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Why is my pancake batter lumpy?
It’s perfectly normal and even recommended that pancake batter has a few lumps—overmixing activates gluten and can make pancakes tough. Just stir gently until the dry ingredients are moistened for the fluffiest results.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Look for bubbles forming across the surface and edges that look set and slightly dry. These signs tell you the pancake is cooked enough on one side and ready to flip for that golden finish.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, and you may want to check if your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to keep pancakes warm while cooking the rest?
Place cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and keep them in a warm oven at about 200°F (95°C). This keeps them warm without drying them out as you finish cooking the batch.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to breakfast favorite. Its simplicity, comforting flavors, and perfect fluffiness make it impossible not to smile with every bite. So grab those ingredients, preheat your pan, and get ready to enjoy pancakes like never before—your mornings will never be the same!
Print
Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 10-12 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fluffy Buttermilk Old-Fashioned Pancakes are a classic breakfast favorite, featuring a tender and airy texture thanks to buttermilk and a perfect balance of leavening agents. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, they pair wonderfully with maple syrup and fresh berries for a comforting morning treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cooking
- Additional butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the buttermilk and eggs together, then stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract for added richness and flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, leaving some lumps to keep the batter light and airy.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate and the baking powder to activate, which contributes to fluffier pancakes.
- Preheat Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat, and lightly grease with butter or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pancakes (First Side): Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges appear set, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Flip Pancakes: Flip the pancakes carefully and cook until golden brown on the other side, about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Repeat Cooking: Continue cooking the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed to maintain a non-stick surface and rich flavor.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, or your favorite pancake toppings for a delicious breakfast experience.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter; some lumps are okay and help keep pancakes fluffy.
- Letting the batter rest helps achieve a lighter texture.
- Adjust the heat if pancakes are browning too quickly or cooking too slowly.
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned griddle for best results.
- Butter works best for greasing but oil can be used for a lighter option.

