Perkins Pancake Recipe

Weekends call for hearty breakfasts, and few things satisfy the craving quite like a plate of light, golden pancakes. If you want to recreate the taste of pancakes from Perkins Family Restaurant at home, this recipe captures their signature tenderness and subtle sweetness. Let’s walk through everything you need—from mixing the batter to storing leftovers, with plenty of tips for success along the way.

The Classic Perkins Pancake Experience

A Perkins pancake has a distinctive appeal. The exterior is lightly crisp, the interior fluffy and soft. There’s a gentle tang from the buttermilk and just enough vanilla flavor to keep things interesting. Perkins has spent decades perfecting this style, and with a few careful steps, you can, too.

Essential Ingredients

If you want pancakes that mimic those served at Perkins, use fresh ingredients and don’t substitute buttermilk—it makes a difference in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for cooking)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These amounts will yield about twelve pancakes, perfect for a family breakfast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This small step helps ensure even mixing and a light texture later.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix to combine, but don’t overbeat—the mixture should look silky.

3. Build the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold until just combined. Don’t worry if you see a few small lumps; overmixing the batter can make pancakes tough.

4. Rest the Batter

Allow the batter to rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This brief pause helps the flour hydrate and lets the baking powder work, giving you extra-fluffy results.

5. Heat the Griddle

Preheat a frying pan or flat griddle over medium heat. Brush with a little melted butter. The best temperature is when a few drops of water sizzle and dance across the surface.

6. Cook the Pancakes

Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Let them spread naturally. After 2-3 minutes, you’ll see small bubbles rise to the top and edges that look set. Flip once, then cook another 1-2 minutes until the bottoms are golden. Avoid pressing down with the spatula, or you’ll lose some of the fluffiness.

7. Serve Warm

Serve immediately, or keep pancakes warm in a 200°F oven as you finish the whole batch.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pancakes

Achieving just the right texture and flavor isn’t difficult. A few tried-and-true techniques can make a huge difference:

Don’t Overmix: Stop stirring as soon as the dry streaks disappear. A few batter lumps are fine.
Let the Batter Rest: This step improves the structure and tenderness.
Know When to Flip: Wait for bubbles and dry edges; flipping too soon can result in pale, undercooked pancakes.
Small or Large: For easy flipping, consider making mini silver dollar pancakes.
Flavor Boost: Add a touch of vanilla or even a pinch of cinnamon for extra depth.

If you want to get creative, you might fold in blueberries, mini chocolate chips, or diced bananas right before cooking.

Topping Ideas

Pancakes are a blank slate. Here are a few classic and inventive topping suggestions to try with your Perkins-style flapjacks:

Topping	Notes
Pure Maple Syrup	Classic, simple, sweet
Whipped Butter	Melts into each crevice
Apple Compote	Stewed apples with cinnamon
Fresh Berries	Strawberries, blueberries, sliced bananas
Nut Butter	Peanut butter or almond butter
Whipped Cream	Light and airy, pairs well with fruit
Chocolate Hazelnut	For dessert-style pancakes
Lemon Curd	Adds a tart, bright finish
Bacon & Eggs	Sweet meets savory

Mix and match your favorites for a new combination each time.

How to Store and Reheat Pancakes

No one wants to waste good pancakes. Here’s how you can store leftovers and reheat them for a quick breakfast later.

Refrigerator

Allow pancakes to cool to room temperature.
Stack with parchment between each pancake to prevent sticking.
Place in an airtight container.
Store for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Lay pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
Freeze for about an hour.
Transfer to a freezer bag or container; they keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Microwave: Arrange pancakes on a plate in a single layer. Cover with a damp paper towel, and heat 20–30 seconds per pancake.
Oven: Place pancakes on a baking sheet, cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
Toaster: Gives a crispier edge, but works best for thinner pancakes.

A Bit of Perkins Restaurant History

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery has woven itself into American breakfast culture. Founded in 1958 in Cincinnati, the original idea was simple: serve fresh, hot pancakes to hungry diners all day. What started as a single “Smithies Pancake House” grew into a staple family spot with hundreds of locations across the U.S.

For over sixty years, Perkins has continued thriving, adapting its menus but keeping pancakes right at the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter the night before?

You can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately ahead of time, then combine them just before cooking. Mixed batter tends to lose some lift if left overnight.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes; it will thicken and curdle slightly, providing a similar tang and texture.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat. The pancakes may be a bit denser, but you’ll get more fiber.

How do I make pancakes extra fluffy?

Separate the eggs. Beat the yolks in with the wet ingredients as usual, and whip the whites to soft peaks. Fold the whites into the batter at the end. This method adds loft without extra baking powder.

There’s something satisfying about mastering restaurant-style pancakes in your home kitchen. With this Perkins pancake recipe, you’re set up for success. Gather your ingredients, follow each step, and enjoy the process. Add your favorite toppings, pour a fresh cup of coffee, and breakfast will feel a little more special—no need to leave home.