Whole wheat pancakes are a healthier alternative to traditional pancakes, made primarily with whole wheat flour, which retains the bran and germ, providing more fiber and nutrients.
Common Ingredients in Whole Wheat Pancakes
- Whole wheat flour (white whole wheat or regular whole wheat)
- Baking powder and/or baking soda
- Salt
- Sugar or honey (optional for sweetness)
- Milk or buttermilk
- Eggs
- Melted butter or oil
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Spices like cinnamon (optional)
Basic Preparation Steps
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and any spices.
- Mix wet ingredients: Whisk together milk (or buttermilk), eggs, melted butter, and vanilla if using.
- Combine: Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined; batter should be slightly lumpy to keep pancakes tender.
- Cook: Heat a greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour batter in 1/4 cup portions. Cook until bubbles form and edges look set, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with toppings like butter, maple syrup, or fresh fruit.
Tips for Best Results
- Use white whole wheat flour for a milder flavor and lighter texture.
- Sift the whole wheat flour to reduce density and improve fluffiness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep pancakes tender and fluffy.
- Let the batter rest for a few minutes to hydrate the flour.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
Example Recipe Highlights
- One recipe uses 1 cup whole wheat flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 egg, and 2 tbsp melted butter
- Another calls for 2 cups white whole wheat flour, 4 1/2 tsp baking powder, 2 tsp cinnamon, 2 eggs, 2 cups milk, and vanilla extract, yielding light and fluffy pancakes
- Sifting flour and whisking eggs separately before combining wet and dry ingredients helps avoid overmixing and results in fluffier pancakes
Whole wheat pancakes offer a nutritious, fiber-rich breakfast option with a slightly nuttier flavor than regular pancakes, and with proper technique, they can be just as light and fluffy
