Fluffy Old-Fashioned Pancakes

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. These ingredients create the base of your pancakes and help ensure they’re light and fluffy.

#### Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
1. **Whisk Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract together until well combined. The melted butter will add richness, while the vanilla gives a lovely flavor to the pancakes.

#### Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
1. **Mix the Batter:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! It’s okay if the batter has a few lumps—this will help keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
2. **Rest the Batter:** Let the batter rest for 5 minutes. This allows the baking powder to activate and the batter to thicken slightly.

#### Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
1. **Heat the Griddle:** Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Once the pan is hot, reduce the heat slightly to medium-low. You can test the heat by dropping a small amount of water on the pan—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
2. **Cook the Pancakes:** Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges begin to look set. Flip the pancake carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown.
3. **Keep Warm:** If making multiple pancakes, you can keep them warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven while you cook the remaining pancakes.

#### Step 5: Serve
1. **Serve Immediately:** Stack your pancakes on a plate and serve with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar are all great options.
2. **Optional Toppings:** For an extra touch, try adding a dollop of butter on top or sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar for a warm, spiced flavor.

### Tips for Perfect Pancakes:
– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes. Stir the ingredients just until they are combined. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.
– **Adjust Heat:** Make sure the pan is at the right temperature. If the pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat. If they’re cooking too slowly, raise the heat slightly.
– **Consistency of Batter:** If the batter seems too thick, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a little more flour.
– **Add-ins:** Feel free to customize your pancakes by adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or sliced bananas to the batter before cooking. Just fold them in gently.

### Why You’ll Love These Fluffy Old-Fashioned Pancakes:
– **Light and Airy:** The key to fluffy pancakes is the perfect ratio of wet to dry ingredients and a little resting time for the batter. These pancakes come out light, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
– **Simple Ingredients:** This recipe uses basic pantry staples, meaning you don’t need to run to the store for special ingredients. You’ll have everything you need on hand.
– **Customizable:** The beauty of pancakes is that you can easily customize them. Add chocolate chips, fresh fruit, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a twist on the classic.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning, a special family breakfast, or a holiday brunch, these pancakes are a crowd-pleaser. They’re simple enough for any day, yet indulgent enough for special occasions.

### Variations:
– **Buttermilk Pancakes:** If you prefer buttermilk pancakes, simply substitute buttermilk for the regular milk in this recipe. Buttermilk will give your pancakes a slightly tangy flavor and make them even fluffier.
– **Whole Wheat Pancakes:** For a healthier option, substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat pancakes may be a little denser than those made with all-purpose flour.
– **Vegan Pancakes:** To make these pancakes vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and substitute the milk with any plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat). Use dairy-free butter for cooking.

### Final Thoughts:
Fluffy Old-Fashioned Pancakes are the epitome of breakfast comfort. Their soft, pillowy texture and rich flavor make them a go-to favorite for families and brunch lovers alike. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can make a batch of pancakes that’s sure to brighten anyone’s morning. So gather your ingredients, heat up the griddle, and enjoy a stack of these perfect pancakes today!