When it comes to breakfast, pancakes are a timeless classic. However, the traditional stovetop method of making pancakes can be a bit of a hassle. You have to constantly monitor the skillet, flip the pancakes at just the right time, and deal with uneven cooking. But fear not! There's an easier way to enjoy this fluffy breakfast food: oven - baked pancakes.
Oven - baked pancakes are a game - changer. They allow you to make a large batch of pancakes all at once in a sheet pan, eliminating the need for constant flipping and monitoring. This not only saves you time but also ensures that all the pancakes are cooked evenly.
To start making oven - baked pancakes, you'll need a few basic ingredients. First and foremost, you'll need flour. All - purpose flour works great for this recipe, providing a good structure for the pancakes. You'll also need eggs, which act as a binder and give the pancakes their richness. Milk is another essential ingredient, adding moisture and helping to create a smooth batter. A bit of sugar will sweeten the deal, and a pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor.
For the leavening agents, baking powder and baking soda are key. Baking powder helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy, while baking soda reacts with the acidic components in the batter to create additional lift. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract for a lovely aroma and flavor.
Let's get into the step - by - step process of making these delicious oven - baked pancakes. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a sheet pan with butter or non - stick cooking spray. This will prevent the pancakes from sticking to the pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the well in the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over - mix, as this can result in tough pancakes. The batter should be lumpy, and that's perfectly fine.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared sheet pan. Smooth the top of the batter with a spatula to ensure an even thickness. Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 - 25 minutes, or until the edges of the pancakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once the pancakes are done baking, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut the pancakes into squares. You can serve the oven - baked pancakes immediately, topped with your favorite toppings. Some popular choices include fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
One of the great things about oven - baked pancakes is their versatility. You can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. If you're a fan of chocolate, you can add some chocolate chips to the batter. For a savory twist, you can incorporate cheese, bacon, or ham into the pancakes. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, to make the pancakes healthier.
Oven - baked pancakes are also a great option for meal prep. You can make a large batch on the weekend and store the leftovers in the refrigerator. When you're in a rush during the week, you can simply reheat the pancakes in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick and delicious breakfast. They're also perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it's a family breakfast or a brunch with friends.
In conclusion, oven - baked pancakes are a wonderful alternative to traditional stovetop pancakes. They're easy to make, require less effort, and can be customized to your liking. So, the next time you're craving pancakes, skip the skillet and give this oven - baked pancake recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!