Best IHOP Pancake Recipe
Introduction
Who doesn’t love the comforting aroma of freshly made pancakes wafting through the kitchen? If you’ve ever dined at IHOP, you know their pancakes are a breakfast favorite—fluffy, golden, and downright delicious. But what if you could recreate that magic at home? With a few simple ingredients and some insider tips, you can enjoy IHOP-style pancakes without leaving your kitchen.
IHOP, short for International House of Pancakes, has been serving up iconic pancakes since 1958. Their commitment to quality and consistency has made them a staple in American breakfast culture. While they offer a variety of pancake options, their classic buttermilk pancakes remain a timeless favorite.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a recipe that captures the essence of IHOP’s pancakes—light, airy, and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and foolproof.
Ingredients Needed
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/4 cups | 570 |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | 4 |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon | 48 |
| Buttermilk | 1 1/4 cups | 152 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Vegetable oil or melted butter | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
Total Calories (per full batch): Approximately 1,096
Per pancake (assuming 6 pancakes): Approximately 183 calories
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is crucial for achieving fluffy pancakes.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the buttermilk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients separately helps to incorporate air into the batter, contributing to the pancakes’ light texture.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes due to the development of gluten.
Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. To test if it’s ready, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the griddle is at the right temperature.
Lightly grease the griddle with a small amount of vegetable oil or cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
For a twist, consider adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or sliced bananas to the batter. Add these ingredients just before cooking to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. Keep in mind that this may result in slightly denser pancakes.
Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and oil to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 183 |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 340mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
Top with butter and warm maple syrup for a traditional treat.
Add fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries along with a dollop of whipped cream.
Sliced bananas and chopped walnuts or pecans make for a hearty and flavorful topping.
Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or sausage links for a complete breakfast.
Conclusion
Recreating IHOP’s famous pancakes at home is simpler than you might think. With this recipe, you can enjoy the same fluffy, golden pancakes that have made IHOP a beloved breakfast destination. Remember, the key to perfect pancakes lies in the quality of your ingredients, the technique, and a little patience. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a delightful homemade breakfast.
Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with toppings and mix-ins, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!