the best pancakes ever!

oh, i know, that's a pretty bold claim. the best (plain) pancakes ever. it's not hard to stand behind that claim when it's true. you might be thinking "whatever, a pancake is a pancake... is a pancake". i, however, beg to differ. there are just pancakes, and then there are pancakes. the kind that make your mouth water just thinking about them (which is exactly what is happening to me right now). the kind that are fluffy and full of pancake goodness. the kind that are good enough to eat without butter and syrup. but, then again, who would want to? oh, and they're from scratch. that's the best part. i can pronounce every ingredient in them, and they're all in my pantry (which is very convenient, might i add).

recipe:
1 1/4 c flour
1/4 c sugar
1/8 tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder
1 egg, beaten
1 c milk
2 tbsp oil
1 tsp vanilla or almond (if you're me)

mix all dry ingredients in large bowl. add wet ingredients. mix just until wet and dry ingredients are incorporated. now, stop and listen... leave the lumps. resist the temptation to mix it to a smooth consistency. be strong. walk away for at least 5 minutes... seriously. leave it alone. let the baking powder do it's job. once you've left it alone long enough, it's time to cook 'em. so, get busy. you've waited long enough. let them cook until air bubbles are visible, but not so long that the sides start to wrinkle. and, don't try to unload the dishwasher at the same time. that usually results in burnt pancakes... trust me. in case you're wondering, this recipe is very easily doubled and the pancakes freeze well (just toast to defrost).


if you're watching your calories, you probably shouldn't slather them in butter and syrup. if not, well... it's gonna be really yummy!