Fluffy Caramel Pancakes Recipe - A Sweet Breakfast Favorite

There’s nothing quite like the comforting fluff of warm pancakes on a lazy morning—unless, of course, you top them with rich, golden caramel. Caramel pancakes are a delightful fusion of fluffy goodness and sweet decadence that can elevate any breakfast or brunch into a gourmet experience. Whether you're treating yourself or impressing guests, this easy recipe will guide you through creating the ultimate stack.

Ingredients
For the Pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• A pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula as it begins to clump and then melt into an amber liquid.

• Once fully melted, carefully add the butter. It will bubble rapidly—this is normal. Stir until melted and combined.
• Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute.
• Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt if desired. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—lumps are okay!

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

• Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
• Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
• Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
• Repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 4: Serve and Drizzle

• Stack the warm pancakes on a plate.
• Drizzle generously with your homemade caramel sauce.
• Top with sliced bananas, chopped nuts, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Add a spoonful of caramel to the batter for a deeper flavor.
• Use salted caramel to balance the sweetness.
• Make it kid-friendly by adding chocolate chips or sprinkles.

Caramel pancakes are the perfect way to start (or sweeten) your day. With just a few basic ingredients and a touch of love, you can turn a simple meal into something truly special. Enjoy!