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This pancake recipe for one lets you enjoy a quick, fluffy stack made just for you. In about 15 minutes, whip up two to three soft, delicious pancakes with simple ingredients from your kitchen.

Three pancakes stacked on a plate and topped with melted butter and blueberries.

Looking for more tasty single serving pancake recipes? Check out our Pancake Recipes for One collection! You’ll find fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, naturally sweet Banana Pancakes, hands-off Small Batch Sheet Pan Pancakes, and even a Small Batch Pancake Mix. With so many options, you’re sure to find your perfect pancake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and Fast: Using basic pantry ingredients, you’ll have a small batch of pancakes ready in under 15 minutes—great for busy mornings or a quick craving.
  • Just Enough: This recipe makes two to three pancakes, so there’s no leftover batter or towering stack—just the right amount for one or two.
  • Easy Cleanup: With a few simple ingredients, cleanup is quick and easy.
  • Customizable: Top your pancakes however you like! Maple syrup, fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or whipped cream—the options are endless.
  • Perfect Base Recipe: This recipe is a great starting point if you want to try out different pancake flavors.
A piece cut out of three pancakes stacked on a plate and topped with melted butter and blueberries.

Ingredients

Ingredient shown for pancake recipe includes milk, baking powder, flour, vanilla, sugar, an egg, and salt.

If you have any ingredients leftover from this small batch pancake recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.

  • Flour: Use all-purpose flour in this recipe.
  • Baking Powder: Essential for light, fluffy pancakes.
  • Sugar: Granulated sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness.
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon balances the flavors perfectly.
  • Egg: One egg gives structure and helps make the pancakes fluffy
  • Milk: I usually use low-fat milk, but whole, skim, unsweetened almond, or oat milk work, too.
  • Vanilla: A splash adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor.
  • Butter: Melted salted butter gives a richer taste; if using unsalted butter, you may want to add a bit more salt.

Recipe Variations

  • Banana Pancakes: Mash a ripe banana and add it to the batter for a naturally sweet twist.
  • Buttermilk Pancakes: Substitute buttermilk for the milk for a tangy and fluffy variation.
  • Blueberry Pancakes: Add a handful of fresh blueberries to the batter.
  • Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Stir in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
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How To Make Pancakes For One

These photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make pancakes. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

flour, baking powder, and sugar in a mixing bowl.
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.
egg, milk, and melted butter in a mixing bowl.
  1. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the other wet ingredients, mixing until combined.

pancake batter in a bowl.
  1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until you don’t see any dry flour. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps. If the batter seems too thick, add a little more milk gradually.
one pancake cooking in a skillet.
  1. Heat a bit of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour about 3/4 cup of batter into the skillet. Cook the pancake until bubbles form on the surface and the bottom is golden brown, about 3 minutes.

one pancake cooking in a skillet.
  1. Flip the pancake with a spatula and cook for another minute on the other side. Remove the pancake from the skillet and place it on a plate.
pancake batter being poured into a skillet.
  1. Repeat with the remaining batter.


a second pancake in a skillet.
  1. Remove the second pancake from the skillet.
two pancakes on a plate topped with blueberries, butter, and syrup.
  1. Enjoy with butter, syrup, whipped cream, or your favorite fruits.

RELATED: 20 Single Serving Breakfast Recipes To Wake Up To

Expert Tips

  • Measuring Flour: Fluff the flour in its container, spoon it into your dry measuring cup, and level it off with a straight edge—this gives you an accurate amount.
  • Batter Consistency: Mix just until you don’t see streaks of flour. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy; avoid overmixing.
  • Check Your Baking Powder: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for light, fluffy pancakes.
  • Flipping Pancakes: Flip the pancakes when you see bubbles on the surface starting to pop.

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few delicious ways to serve your pancakes:

  • Fresh Fruit: Add a healthy touch with sliced bananas, berries, or apple slices.
  • Homemade Syrup and Butter: Stick with the classic combo for that familiar, comforting flavor.
  • Nut Butter and Honey: Drizzle almond or peanut butter and a little honey for a protein boost.
  • Yogurt and Granola: Top with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for some extra crunch.
  • Chocolate Chips and Whipped Cream: For a sweeter treat, try chocolate chips and a dollop of whipped cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, and if it’s thickened, add a splash of milk to reach the right consistency.

Why are my pancakes flat instead of fluffy?

Flat pancakes can be due to expired baking powder or overmixing the batter. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and mix the batter until just combined.

How do I know when to flip the pancakes?

Flip them when you see bubbles forming on the surface and they start to pop. This is a good sign the pancakes are ready to turn.

Can I make pancakes for two?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients for more servings.

How should I store leftover pancakes?

Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a pan until warmed through.

Can I freeze pancakes?

Yes, you can! Here’s how: Let the pancakes cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30-45 minutes until solid. Transfer the frozen pancakes to a freezer bag, placing wax or parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. To reheat, microwave a pancake for about 20 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes.

RELATED: 15 Easy Single Serving Dessert Recipes

For more information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.

For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.

RELATED: 40 Easy Recipes For Busy College Students

If you’ve tried this small batch pancake recipe or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.

Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see!


Your Cooking For One Source
Because you’re worth it

Pancakes For One

4.82 from 313 votes
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 pancakes
Make fluffy pancakes for one with this easy recipe! Perfectly portioned, ready in 15 minutes, and made with pantry staples for a quick, delicious breakfast.

Watch How To Make This

Ingredients 
 

  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ tablespoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon salted butter -melted, plus an additional tablespoon of butter to grease the pan.
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Instructions 

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk, vanilla, and melted butter, whisking until smooth.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk gradually.
  • Heat a small amount of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  • Pour about 3/4 cup of batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the bottom is golden brown, about 3 minutes.
  • Flip the pancake and cook for another minute on the other side, until golden.
  • Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter.
  • Serve the pancakes with your favorite toppings like butter, syrup, or fresh fruit.

Notes

  • Measuring Flour: Fluff the flour in its container, spoon it into your dry measuring cup, and level it off with a straight edge—this gives you an accurate amount.
  • Batter Consistency: Mix just until you don’t see streaks of flour. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy; avoid overmixing.
  • Check Your Baking Powder: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for light, fluffy pancakes.
  • Flipping Pancakes: Flip the pancakes when you see bubbles on the surface starting to pop.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pancake, Calories: 228kcal, Carbohydrates: 38g, Protein: 9g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 82mg, Sodium: 472mg, Potassium: 301mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 344IU, Calcium: 149mg, Iron: 2mg

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Red 5-inch square baking dish with One Dish Kitchen branded paper sleeve around it.

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Iโ€™m Joanie and Iโ€™m incredibly happy youโ€™re here! Our aim is to inspire individuals with access to single serving recipes, education, and a supportive community that will enable them to enjoy the preparation of a meal that will nourish both body and soul.

4.82 from 313 votes (165 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




334 Comments

  1. Scarlet says:

    This is not a recipe for one- this is a recipe for two or three. It is good for leftovers, though, if you don’t have a lot of time for cooking. I would suggest doubling the salt if you are out of salted butter. I added some nutmeg and doubled the vanilla extract.

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Scarlet. This recipe as written yields 2-3 pancakes which is the number of pancakes typically found in a short stack of pancakes served in restaurants. Since everyone’s appetite is different, one pancake may be enough for some but an additional pancake or two might be the perfect amount for someone else.

  2. Kris Marie says:

    This was a delicious recipe and an absolute keeper! I did switch out the regular milk for buttermilk, and added a half smashed banana, a sprinkle of cinnamon! I got 4 good sized pancakes! Bookmarking! Thank you!

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      Wonderful! I’m so happy you enjoyed the buttermilk pancakes. Thank you so much for your feedback.

  3. Mia says:

    I’ve made these at least three or four times in the last month or so. I make pretty small pancakes, so I usually get 6-8. They are great plain, or with fruit mixed in or on top. I’ve frozen the extras and reheated in my toaster. All great!

    They are fluffy and tasty. I add a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg, plus extra vanilla. Otherwise, I make them according to the recipe. Definitely recommend!

  4. Emma says:

    This is my new favourite pancake recipe. My hubby and kids love it too. Thank you!! Printed and is part of my family cookbook now.

  5. Abby says:

    best pancakes ever super easy to make and very tasty

  6. Cherie says:

    Amazing taste and texture! I added chocolate chips and they tasted even better. Definitely recommend this easy and tasty recipe ๐Ÿ™‚

  7. John says:

    This is a great recipe and itโ€™s easily adapted. I actually found it still to be too much pancake for one, so with some trial and error I found my sweet spot. I cut the flour in half (I sometimes use whole wheat and it works great) and cut everything else in half except the baking powder (I use the full teaspoon) and salt (to make up for the fact that I donโ€™t use salted butter). I still use a whole egg because who is going to cut an egg in half?
    I also prefer to use olive oil for the pan because butter burns.

  8. Juanita says:

    Made them this morning and they burnt at first, lowered the temp pretty low. Will make again and not use butter in mix or to cook with.
    Still good stuff

    1. Mark McSweeney says:

      Found the recipe and it was extremely thick batter. Had to add an extra 1/2 cup liquid (almond milk).

  9. Tio says:

    Best pancakes I have ever made. I added a banana and OMG; it was delicious!

  10. janet says:

    Made 2 large pancakes. Pancakes were light fluffy & totally delicious.
    will definitely make again. Thanks for all your great recipes!