In brief
- For thin pancakes, make a runny batter; for thick and American pancakes, use a thicker batter with baking powder.
- Cook over medium heat in a well-preheated pan with a thin layer of fat.
- Flip only when the top is almost dry and the edges start to lift.
- A good non-stick pan makes flipping much easier.
Thin and very thin, thick and sturdy, or small and fluffy: pancakes come in many varieties, and the difference mainly lies in the batter. We list the three most well-known types, plus how to cook them.
What is the difference between thin, thick, and American pancakes?
The difference is in the batter. Thin (Dutch) pancakes have a runny batter made of flour, milk, and egg, without a leavening agent. Thick pancakes use less milk, making the batter firmer. American pancakes include baking powder in the batter, which makes them fluffy and thick in a small size.
How do you cook thin pancakes?
Heat the pan over medium heat and grease it with a thin layer of butter. Pour a spoonful of batter into the center and tilt the pan so the batter spreads thinly. Cook until the top is dry and the edges lift, then flip and cook the other side briefly. Keep the pan warm between pancakes.
How do you make American pancakes?
Make a thicker batter with baking powder and let it rest briefly. Spoon small dollops of batter into the pan, as large as you want the thick pancake to be. Flip them once bubbles appear on the surface and the edges become firm. The baking powder causes them to rise into fluffy, thick pancakes.
Which pan should you use for pancakes?
A flat frying pan with a good non-stick coating and a flat bottom is ideal: the batter spreads evenly and the pancake releases easily. Flip with a soft silicone spatula to avoid damaging the coating. For which pan is best for what, read our pan guide.
How to succeed with your pancakes
Choose the right batter for the type of pancake, keep the pan at the right temperature, and flip only when the edges lift. With a good non-stick pan and some practice, you’ll have them from pan to plate in no time.
