The Ina Garten Buttermilk Pancakes are light, fluffy, and perfectly golden with a tender interior and slightly crisp edges. Inspired by the warm and approachable cooking style of Ina Garten, this recipe turns simple pantry ingredients into a breakfast classic.
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
2 cups buttermilk
¼ cup melted unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
Proper preheating ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combining dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Ensure melted butter is slightly cooled before adding to prevent scrambling the eggs.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
The batter should be slightly lumpy. Overmixing develops gluten and makes pancakes dense.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set. Flip carefully and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Avoid pressing down with the spatula, as this deflates the pancakes.
Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and keep warm if needed. Serve with butter and maple syrup.
Fresh pancakes offer the best texture and flavor.