# Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat Griddle or Pan**: Preheat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat. You can test if the pan is ready by sprinkling a few drops of water on it. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, the pan is ready.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. The batter should be thick but pourable. If it's too thick, you can add a little more milk to thin it out.
5. **Grease Pan**: Lightly grease the preheated griddle or skillet with butter or oil. You can use a paper towel or pastry brush to spread the grease evenly.
6. **Cook Pancakes**: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake, leaving enough space between them to spread. Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancakes and the edges begin to look set, about 2-3 minutes.
7. **Flip Pancakes**: Carefully flip the pancakes with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. **Serve**: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and serve immediately, or keep them warm in a low oven while you cook the remaining pancakes.
9. **Optional Toppings**: Serve the pancakes with your favorite toppings, such as butter, maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, chocolate chips, or nuts.
### Tips:
- For fluffier pancakes, you can separate the egg and beat the egg white until stiff peaks form before folding it into the batter at the end. This will give the pancakes extra lift and volume.
- If you prefer whole wheat pancakes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- To keep pancakes warm while you cook the rest, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer in a preheated oven set to the lowest temperature.
With this simple homemade pancake recipe, you can enjoy delicious, fluffy pancakes any time of day. Customize them with your favorite toppings and enjoy a comforting breakfast or brunch treat!