The Perfect Pancake: A Step-By-Step Guide

Author
Krusteaz
Length
5 minute read
Last Updated
August 28, 2025
Four Krusteaz buttermilk pancakes cook on a griddle, each with different toppings, like chocolate chips, raspberries, blueberries, and almond slices.

Pancakes might just be the ultimate breakfast comfort food. They’re warm, fluffy, and have a magical way of making mornings feel special. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make them. With Krusteaz pancake mixes, you’re already halfway to stack perfection.

Krusteaz® takes the guesswork out of pancake-making. No stressing over flour-to-baking-powder ratios, no worrying about overmixing your batter. Even if your pancakes come out a little lopsided, they’ll still taste amazing. That’s the beauty of it, you really can’t mess them up.

Ready to flip your way to breakfast bliss? Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this guide walks through the simple steps that set you up for pancake perfection.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools And Krusteaz Pancake Mix

Before you even turn on the stove, make sure you’ve got everything you need:

Ingredients: 

  • Krusteaz Pancake Mix (your choice of Buttermilk, Protein, or your favorite variety)
  • Water (Yep, that’s it. Making Krusteaz pancakes is that simple!) 

Tools:

  • A mixing bowl and whisk or spoon
  • A non-stick skillet or griddle
  • A spatula for flipping
  • Optional toppings: butter, syrup, berries, chocolate chips, whipped cream, peanut butter, or whatever your pancake-loving heart desires

Step 2: Measure And Mix

One of the best things about Krusteaz mixes? Most only need water, though one mix gets a little fancy with milk and an egg. Depending on which mix is your favorite, the chart below makes it easy to see exactly what you’ll need for each type, so measuring and mixing is always straightforward.

Mix TypeMix AmountWaterMilkEgg
Buttermilk Pancakes 1 cup⅔ cup
Heart Healthy Buttermilk Pancake1 cup⅔ cup
Blueberry Pancake 1 cup⅔ cup
Sweet Cream Pancake1 ¼ cup⅔ cup
Pumpkin Spice Pancake2 cup1 ¼ cup
Gluten Free Buttermilk1 ¾ cup1 cup⅓ cup1 egg
Buttermilk Protein Pancake 1 cup⅔ cup

Pour the mix into your bowl, add the water (or the milk and egg if you’re making Gluten Free), and stir until combined. Let the batter stand two minutes so the leavening has a chance to work its magic. A few lumps are a good thing; they keep your pancakes light and fluffy. Skip the urge to overmix, and you’ll have the perfect batter.

Step 3: Heat The Pan

Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. If you want to test the temperature, flick a drop of water on it; if it sizzles and dances, you’re good to go.

Why medium heat? Too hot and your pancakes might burn before the inside cooks; too low and you’ll be waiting forever. Medium heat gives you that golden-brown finish we all dream about.

Step 4: Pour The Batter

Lightly grease your skillet if needed (a little butter or cooking spray works great). Then, pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake. This size is easy to flip and cooks evenly.

Don’t stress about perfect circles, a little unevenness adds charm and character to your stack.

Step 5: Watch For The Bubbles

After about 1-2 minutes, you’ll see bubbles forming on the surface. Once those bubbles pop and the edges start to look set, it’s time to flip.

Pro Tip: Use a smooth, confident motion with your spatula. And remember, the first pancake is just your warm-up…and the dog tax.

Step 6: Flip And Finish

After flipping, let your pancakes cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on the other side. They’ll be delicious, even if your timing isn’t exact.

Step 7: Serve And Top

Now comes the best part, toppings! Pancakes are like a blank canvas, and what you put on top is where your personality (and cravings) get to shine.

Here are a few ways to dress up your stack:

  • Classic Comfort: A pat of butter melting into warm pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup. Simple, nostalgic, unbeatable.
  • Fruity and Fresh: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or peaches topped with whipped cream or yogurt for a lighter twist.
  • Sweet Tooth Heaven: Chocolate chips, peanut butter drizzle, caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of crushed cookies if you’re feeling wild.
  • Savory Surprise: Try crispy bacon crumbles, a fried egg, or even a little shredded cheese for a brunch-meets-breakfast vibe.

Want to take it up a notch? Build a pancake charcuterie board for family or friends. Line up toppings in little bowls, fruit, nuts, spreads, syrups, and let everyone create their own masterpiece. It’s interactive, fun, and makes even a regular morning feel like a celebration.

Remember, there’s no wrong way to top a pancake. Go with whatever makes you smile, then stack it high and dig in.

The Krusteaz Way To Pancake Perfection

With Krusteaz pancake mixes, making the perfect pancake is simple, approachable, and fun, no matter your skill level in the kitchen. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned weekend brunch pro, these mixes take the guesswork out of pancake-making and deliver fluffy, delicious results every time. 

Ready to whip up your next stack? Shop Krusteaz pancake mixes or try some new pancake recipes and see just how easy, and tasty, pancakes can be with Krusteaz.

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