Simple Pancake Recipe 3 Ingredients: Fluffy Perfection in Minutes!
Who doesn’t love a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes on a lazy weekend morning? But sometimes, the thought of pulling out a dozen ingredients and spending ages in the kitchen just isn’t appealing. What if I told you that you could whip up a batch of delicious, satisfying pancakes with just three ingredients? Yes, you read that right! This simple pancake recipe is a game-changer, perfect for busy mornings, unexpected guests, or when you simply crave a comforting treat without the fuss.
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Forget complicated recipes and long ingredient lists. This recipe is all about simplicity and speed. It’s so easy that even kids can make it (with supervision, of course!). Get ready to experience the joy of homemade pancakes without the hassle. This recipe delivers surprisingly fluffy and flavorful pancakes that will rival even the most elaborate recipes. Prepare to be amazed by how little effort it takes to achieve pancake perfection!
Why This Recipe Works
You might be skeptical – three ingredients? Can that really make good pancakes? The answer is a resounding YES! The magic lies in the combination and the method. Here’s why this recipe works:
- Self-Rising Flour: This is the key ingredient. Self-rising flour already contains flour, baking powder, and salt – the essential components for creating light and airy pancakes. It eliminates the need for measuring out individual leavening agents, streamlining the process and ensuring a consistent rise.
- Milk: Milk provides the necessary liquid to bind the dry ingredients together and create a smooth batter. The lactose in milk also contributes to browning and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Egg: The egg acts as a binder, holding the pancake together and adding richness and structure. It also contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the pancakes.
The simplicity of this recipe allows the quality of the ingredients to shine through. Using fresh ingredients and a gentle hand when mixing ensures the best possible results. Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will result in lighter pancakes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 cup milk (any kind works, even non-dairy!)
- 1 large egg

Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, milk, and egg until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are perfectly okay; in fact, overmixing will result in tough pancakes.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or non-stick frying pan over medium heat. You’ll know the pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates almost immediately.
- Pour the Batter: Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
- Cook the Pancakes: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the pancakes carefully with a spatula.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate chips.
Tips for Success
While this recipe is incredibly simple, here are a few tips to ensure pancake perfection:
- Don’t Overmix: This is the most important tip! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, chewy pancakes. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Use a Hot Pan: A hot pan is crucial for achieving golden brown, evenly cooked pancakes. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the pancakes will spread and become flat.
- Adjust the Milk: If your batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a tablespoon of flour.
- Don’t Press Down: Avoid pressing down on the pancakes with your spatula while they’re cooking. This will flatten them and prevent them from rising properly.
- Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Add a dash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a handful of blueberries to the batter for a delicious twist.
- Use a Griddle or Non-Stick Pan: A griddle or non-stick pan will prevent the pancakes from sticking and make them easier to flip. If you don’t have either, make sure to grease your pan well with butter or oil.
- Keep Warm: To keep the pancakes warm while you cook the rest of the batch, place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F or 93°C).
Storage Instructions
If you have leftover pancakes (which is unlikely!), you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Refrigerator: Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, toaster, or frying pan.
- Freezer: Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave, toaster, or frying pan.

FAQ
Q: Can I use almond milk or other non-dairy milk?
A: Yes! Any type of milk will work in this recipe. Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or even coconut milk are all great substitutes for dairy milk.
Q: Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
A: You can, but you’ll need to add baking powder and salt. For every cup of regular flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Q: Can I add sugar to the batter?
A: While not necessary, you can add a tablespoon or two of sugar to the batter if you prefer sweeter pancakes.
Q: Why are my pancakes flat?
A: Flat pancakes are usually caused by overmixing the batter or using a pan that isn’t hot enough. Make sure to mix the batter gently and heat the pan properly before adding the batter.
Q: Why are my pancakes tough?
A: Tough pancakes are usually caused by overmixing the batter, which develops the gluten in the flour. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
Q: Can I double or triple this recipe?
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A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable. Just double or triple the ingredients as needed.
Conclusion
So there you have it – a ridiculously simple and incredibly delicious pancake recipe that requires only three ingredients. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy homemade pancakes without the fuss. It’s quick, easy, and yields surprisingly fluffy and flavorful results. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your repertoire. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes in minutes! Happy cooking!