How to Make Lighter Pancakes

Last Updated: May 6, 2021

It is possible to produce lighter pancakes using the following process. Note that the solution to this process differs slightly, depending on whether you're making the thin, flat pancakes, such as Irish pancakes or crepe-style pancakes or the fluffier, fatter pancakes more commonly known in North America. Both approaches are addressed in this article.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:
Preparing the batter for lightness

1
Make the pancake batter. Follow the instructions for making the batter according to your favorite recipe. There are lots of choices for pancake recipes available here.
2
Decide on which "making lighter" solution will work for your pancake batter. This will depend on the type of pancake you're making:
- For the fluffy, fatter pancake style: Make a quick introduction of air to the pancakes by whisking really well.
- For the batter of thinner, crepe-like pancakes, try this: If you have more time, set the batter aside for a half hour to an hour prior to cooking. This extra time allows the starch in the flour to soften or break down considerably, leaving a much lighter batter.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:
Cooking the pancakes

1
Get a little piece of butter, it can be salted or unsalted. After you put the butter in the pan, add the pancake batter in suitable amounts.
2
When flipping, don't push down on the pancakes. While it may feel right to push down after you flip to help it cook, it won't help the lightness or faster cooking. It'll just deflate the pancakes and reduce their airiness.
3
Finish cooking your pancake according to the time normally required. Remove from the heat and serve immediately with the usual range of toppings.

Warnings

Lighter pancakes are not the greatest at cooking as regular pancakes. Their tops will be white and not brownish or puffy.

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