Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes

Serve these timeless golden circles with a dusting of sugar and a pat of butter for pure comfort. Breakfast .

A timeless stack of golden, fluffy old fashioned buttermilk pancakes that feel like a warm hug on a lazy morning.

Published: February 5, 2026
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Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures
Old fashioned buttermilk pancakes trace their roots to early American frontier cooking, where settlers prized the simplicity of a few pantry staples turned into a comforting breakfast. The combination of tangy buttermilk and leavening created a tender crumb that has endured through generations. This classic dish, also celebrated in american pancakes, remains a beloved staple at family tables.

Why You'll Love It

  • - Simple pantry ingredients you probably already have
  • - Gentle rise gives a light, airy texture
  • - Golden edges with a soft, buttery center
  • - Versatile for sweet or savory toppings

*The pancakes are the fluffiest I've ever tasted, a true comfort.*

Essential Ingredient Guide

  • Buttermilk: Provides the signature tang and encourages a tender crumb; aim for cold, fresh buttermilk.
  • All-purpose flour: Choose a moderate protein flour for balance; sift for a light batter.
  • Eggs: Adds richness and structure; room temperature eggs blend more smoothly.
  • Baking powder: Creates lift; use fresh powder for the best puff.
  • Lemon juice: A splash brightens the flavor and accentuates the buttermilk’s tang.
  • Maple syrup (optional): Adds a hint of caramel sweetness; you can drizzle after cooking.
Preparing Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures

Complete Cooking Process

  • Ingredient Readiness:

    Measure and sift dry ingredients, whisk wet ingredients separately, then gently combine.

  • Flavor Development:

    Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes; this lets the baking powder activate and the flour hydrate.

  • Texture Control:

    Cook on medium‑low heat; the pan should sizzle softly, giving the pancake time to rise without burning.

  • Finishing Touches:

    Fold the pancake onto the plate, add butter, and a drizzle of maple or honey.

  • Serving Timing:

    Serve immediately while the tops are still slightly glossy and the edges crisp.

  • Pro Tips

    • Use a non‑stick skillet or a well‑seasoned cast iron pan for even browning.
    • Don’t over‑mix the batter; a few lumps are fine and keep the pancakes tender.
    • Let the batter rest for at least 5 minutes for airy results.
    • Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (200°F) if making a big batch.

    Honestly, these little adjustments make a huge difference. I remember once I over‑mixed and the pancakes turned rubbery—oops! A gentle hand and patience restore that lightness. So, take your time, trust the process, and let the kitchen fill with that soothing buttery scent.

Cooking Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures

The essence of the dish:

The magic lies in the contrast between a crisp, caramelized edge and a cloud‑soft interior, achieved by the slight acidity of buttermilk paired with the lift of baking powder.

A fun fact or historical angle:

During the Great Depression, pancake houses became community hubs because the batter could stretch a small amount of butter and milk into a hearty meal for many.

Flavor or sensory focus:

You’ll notice the nutty aroma of melted butter, the subtle tang of buttermilk, and the gentle sweetness of a light maple glaze.

You Must Know

  • Temper the batter; let it sit briefly.
  • Heat the pan slowly to avoid burnt edges.
  • Flip only once for even fluffiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, add one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes; it will mimic buttermilk’s tang.

→ How do I keep pancakes warm without drying them out?

Place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven; cover loosely with foil.

→ What’s the best flour for these pancakes?

All‑purpose flour works well; for a lighter crumb, you can substitute half with cake flour.

→ Can I add blueberries or chocolate chips?

Absolutely—sprinkle them onto the batter after you pour it; they’ll melt into sweet pockets.

→ Why are my pancakes flat?

Check that your baking powder is fresh and avoid over‑mixing; also, ensure the pan isn’t too hot.

→ Do I need to flip the pancake twice?

One flip is enough; flipping twice can deflate the airy interior.

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes Ready to Serve | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures

Chef's Tips

If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, sprinkle a bit more flour.,For extra aroma, melt a small knob of butter in the pan before each batch.,Serve immediately; the pancakes lose their fluff when they sit too long.

Nutrition Facts

per serving

310

Calories

9g

Protein

38g

Carbs

12g

Fat

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 420mg

Taste Profile

🍯 Sweet
Medium
🧂 Salty
Low
🌶️ Spicy
None
🍋 Sour
Low
🍖 Umami
Low

A gentle balance of buttery sweet and bright tang.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives

All-purpose flour Whole wheat flour

Gives a nutty flavor; may need a bit more liquid.

Butter Coconut oil

Adds a faint coconut aroma; adjust amount for same richness.

Recipe Variations

Try these delicious twists on the original

Spicy Version

Add a pinch of cayenne and fold in diced jalapeños for a subtle kick.

Mediterranean Style

Mix in crumbled feta, chopped olives, and a dash of oregano for a savory twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results

  • Over‑mixing the batter, which creates tough pancakes.
  • Using too high heat, causing burnt edges and raw centers.
  • Waiting too long before flipping, leading to a soggy interior.

Meal Prep & Storage

Make Ahead Tips

You can whisk the dry ingredients together and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; combine with wet ingredients just before cooking.

Leftover Ideas

Reheat gently in a skillet with a touch of butter; they stay soft and regain a hint of crispness.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this with...

A glass of freshly brewed coffee Steamed fresh berries with a dusting of powdered sugar A light cucumber salad with vinaigrette

Cooking Timeline

0-5 min

Measure and whisk dry ingredients; mix wet ingredients separately.

5-10 min

Combine wet and dry mixtures, letting batter rest.

10-15 min

Heat skillet, test temperature with a drop of batter.

15-20 min

Cook pancakes, flipping once each side is golden.

20-25 min

Keep finished pancakes warm; plate and serve.

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes

Fluffy old fashioned buttermilk pancakes perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch. The batter whispers of butter and tangy buttermilk, and the pan sighs as each circle turns a golden amber. Honestly, they’re the kind of pancakes that make a kitchen feel like home.

Author: Emma Fields

Timing

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

20 Minutes

Total Time

35 Minutes

Recipe Details

Category: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 4 Servings Servings
Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 01 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 02 2 tsp baking powder
  • 03 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 04 ¼ tsp salt
  • 05 2 tbsp sugar
  • 06 1 cup cold buttermilk
  • 07 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 08 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 09 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add‑Ins

  • 01 ½ cup fresh blueberries
  • 02 ¼ cup chocolate chips
  • 03 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

Step 01

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar; set aside.

Step 02

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla; whisk until just blended.

Step 03

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients; stir gently until streaks disappear—don’t over‑mix.

Step 04

Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while you heat a skillet over medium‑low heat; lightly oil the surface.

Step 05

Spoon ¼‑cup portions onto the skillet; watch bubbles form, then flip once the edges look set and the underside is golden. Cook the second side until lightly browned.

Notes & Tips

  • 1 If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, sprinkle a bit more flour.
  • 2 For extra aroma, melt a small knob of butter in the pan before each batch.
  • 3 Serve immediately; the pancakes lose their fluff when they sit too long.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls

  • Whisk

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Non‑stick skillet or cast‑iron pan

  • Spatula

  • Sifter

Must-Know Tips

  • Don’t over‑mix; a few lumps keep the texture light.
  • Maintain a steady medium‑low heat; high heat burns before the interior cooks.
  • Let batter rest; it improves rise and tenderness.

Professional Secrets

  • Use cold buttermilk to keep the batter from getting too warm too fast.
  • Add a pinch of cornmeal for a subtle crunch on the edges.
  • Pat the cooked pancakes gently with a paper towel to absorb excess butter.
Emma Fields

Recipe by

Emma Fields

“Mornings are my magic hour! I create easy, energizing breakfasts that turn sleepy starts into sunshine moments.” ☀️🥞

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