Fluffy Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Fresh Berries

These fluffy pancakes are perfect for a lazy weekend breakfast or a sweet brunch treat. Light, airy, and crowned with a drizzle of maple syrup and your favourite fresh berries, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. Whether you're an experienced cook or a complete beginner, this simple recipe will guide you to pancake perfection in no time.

Ingredients

• 200g plain flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 300ml milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for greasing the pan)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
• Maple syrup, for serving
• Fresh berries of your choice (e.g. strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the plain flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Ensure that the dry ingredients are well mixed to guarantee an even rise and sweetness in every pancake.

2. Whisk the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl or jug, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using).
2. Whisk everything together until well blended, creating a smooth mixture.

3. Create the Batter

1. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture.
2. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or whisk, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher pancakes, so stop as soon as there are no more visible streaks of flour. A few small lumps in the batter are fine.

4. Rest the Batter (Optional)

1. For extra fluffy pancakes, allow the batter to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the gluten relax and can result in lighter, more tender pancakes.

5. Cook the Pancakes

1. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a little butter or oil.
2. Ladle about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the hot surface for each pancake, leaving space between them.
3. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes or until small bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
4. Flip the pancakes carefully using a spatula, then cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through.

6. Serve with Maple Syrup and Fresh Berries

1. Stack the pancakes on a plate.
2. Drizzle generously with maple syrup.
3. Top with a handful of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
4. Serve warm and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavour.

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Allowing the egg and milk to come to room temperature before mixing can help achieve a smooth batter.
• Adjust the heat: If the pan gets too hot, the pancakes may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked on the inside. Lower the heat if you notice them browning too fast.
• Add a twist: For added variety, sprinkle chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sliced bananas onto the pancakes just before flipping.
• Keep them warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked pancakes on a baking tray in a low-temperature oven (about 100°C) until all are ready.

Enjoy Your Fluffy Pancakes

These Fluffy Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Fresh Berries are a great way to start the day or treat yourself to a relaxing brunch. Their light and airy texture, paired with the sweet tang of syrup and fruit, makes them an instant favourite for both kids and adults alike. Serve them fresh off the pan for an irresistible breakfast you’ll want to revisit time and time again!