Clinton Street Baking Company is famous for serving some of the best pancakes in New York City, and their recipe has become a beloved classic for breakfast lovers everywhere. These pancakes are known for their fluffy texture and rich flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
We love how this recipe strikes the perfect balance between lightness and heartiness, making it ideal for weekend brunches or special mornings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these pancakes are surprisingly easy to make and deliver that iconic diner taste right at home.
By mastering this recipe, you’ll bring a slice of NYC’s culinary charm to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the secrets behind these mouthwatering pancakes and create a breakfast experience that’s both comforting and unforgettable.
Ingredients
To craft the iconic Clinton Street Baking Company Pancakes, we gather precise, high-quality ingredients that ensure the perfect fluffy texture and rich flavor characteristic of this beloved recipe.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted for a light texture
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar to balance sweetness
- 1 tablespoon baking powder for optimal rise
- 1 teaspoon baking soda enhances fluffiness and tenderness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to elevate all flavors
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups buttermilk, room temperature for tang and moisture
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten for structure and richness
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled for smoothness
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for aromatic depth
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
- Fresh blueberries, chocolate chips, or bananas to mix in for flavor variety
- Classic toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar to finish beautifully
- A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a dollop of butter adds extra indulgence
| Ingredient Category | Key Components |
|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt |
| Wet Ingredients | Buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract |
| Optional Add-Ins | Blueberries, chocolate chips, bananas, nuts |
| Popular Toppings | Maple syrup, whipped cream, powdered sugar, butter |
This carefully curated ingredient list guarantees the fluffy and flavorful pancakes that the Clinton Street Baking Company is famous for.
Equipment Needed
To recreate the iconic Clinton Street Baking Company Pancake Recipe at home, having the right equipment ensures consistent results and makes the process smooth. Below is a detailed list of essential tools along with their purpose in our pancake-making journey.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | For combining wet and dry ingredients separately |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Accurate measurement of flour, sugar, baking powder, and liquids |
| Sifter | To aerate and remove lumps from dry ingredients |
| Whisk | For blending eggs, buttermilk, and folding ingredients |
| Rubber spatula | For gentle folding of wet and dry ingredients |
| Non-stick skillet or griddle | Provides even heat distribution for golden brown pancakes |
| Ladle or ¼ cup measure | To portion pancake batter consistently |
| Cooking spray or butter | Prevents sticking and adds flavor |
| Fork or toothpick | To test doneness of pancakes |
| Cooling rack (optional) | Allows pancakes to stay fluffy and prevent sogginess |
We recommend using a heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet or a cast-iron griddle heated over medium heat. This provides the perfect surface to achieve the fluffy, golden crust that the Clinton Street Baking Company pancakes are famous for.
For mixing, separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients help avoid overmixing which keeps the batter light and airy. Using a sifter ensures the flour mixture is lump-free and well-incorporated, contributing to that soft texture we want.
When cooking, portioning with a ¼ cup measuring ladle helps control pancake size for even cooking and the perfect stack appearance.
Finally, using a fork or toothpick to check when bubbles form and edges look set helps us know exactly when to flip, locking in the pancake’s tender crumb and rich flavor.
With these tools ready, we are fully equipped to cook Clinton Street Baking Company’s fluffy pancakes right in our kitchens.
Preparation
Let’s dive into the crucial steps to prepare the Clinton Street Baking Company Pancake batter and ensure our cooking surface is perfectly ready. These details guarantee the signature fluffiness and rich flavor that make these pancakes irresistible.
Preparing the Batter
We start by combining the dry ingredients—sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—to ensure even distribution and a light texture. Sifting aerates the flour creating a fine crumb structure.
Next, in a separate bowl, we whisk together the wet ingredients: room temperature buttermilk, lightly beaten eggs, melted unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract. The buttermilk adds tanginess and tenderizes the batter while eggs provide structure.
We then create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Gently fold the components together using a spatula or large spoon. It’s important to stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together to avoid overworking the batter which can result in tough pancakes.
“The batter should be slightly lumpy — this is the key to maintaining fluffiness.”
| Step | Ingredient / Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sift dry ingredients together | Aerates and evenly mixes |
| 2 | Whisk wet ingredients separately | Combines flavors and texture |
| 3 | Fold wet into dry gently | Avoids over-mixing and toughness |
| 4 | Leave batter slightly lumpy | Ensures fluffy pancake texture |
Optional add-ins like fresh blueberries or chocolate chips can be carefully folded in last to prevent sinking.
Preheating the Pan or Griddle
Preheating our skillet or griddle is essential to achieving that golden brown crust with a soft, airy inside. We set the heat to a medium setting—too high will burn the exterior before the center cooks; too low will dry them out.
To test if the pan is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If they “dance” and evaporate quickly, the pan is at the ideal temperature.
Before pouring each batch, we lightly grease the cooking surface with butter or a neutral oil using a brush or paper towel. This prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
“Maintaining even heat throughout cooking is vital for consistent, delicious pancakes.”
We use a ¼ cup measure or ladle to pour the batter onto the pan forming evenly sized pancakes, which helps in even cooking and presentation.
By carefully preparing our batter and preheating the cooking surface just right, we set ourselves up to create the quintessential Clinton Street Baking Company Pancakes right at home.
Cooking Instructions
Mastering the Clinton Street Baking Company Pancake Recipe requires attention to detail and precise timing. Below we guide you through the essential steps to cook these fluffy, rich-flavored pancakes that will transform your breakfast experience.
How to Cook the Clinton Street Baking Company Pancakes
- Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 5 minutes. To test if it’s ready place a few drops of water on the surface: they should dance and evaporate quickly.
- Lightly grease the cooking surface with unsalted butter or a neutral oil. Use a paper towel to spread a thin even layer preventing sticking without excess grease.
- Scoop the batter using a ¼ cup measure or ladle to ensure uniform pancake size for even cooking.
- Pour batter onto the hot surface forming rounds. Avoid spreading the batter; let it form naturally for thick fluffy pancakes.
- Cook the pancakes until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to look set about 2-3 minutes. This signals it is time to flip.
- Flip gently with a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and cover loosely to keep them tender as you finish cooking the entire batch.
- Serve immediately with your choice of toppings like warm maple syrup, freshly whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
| Cooking Step | Time Estimate | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | 5 minutes | Water droplets dance on surface |
| Cook first side | 2-3 minutes | Bubbles form and edges set |
| Cook second side | 1-2 minutes | Golden brown and cooked through |
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and improved batter texture.
- Do not overmix the batter; leave it slightly lumpy to preserve fluffiness.
- Maintain medium heat to cook pancakes through without burning the outside.
- Test your pan temperature frequently when making multiple batches; adjust heat as necessary.
- For added flavor incorporate optional mix-ins like fresh blueberries or chocolate chips just before cooking.
- Keep pancakes warm by covering loosely with foil or placing in a low oven set at 200°F (93°C).
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Clinton Street Baking Company Pancake Recipe into a truly memorable meal, pairing it with complementary flavors and textures is key. Below are some of our favorite serving ideas to match the pancakes’ rich flavor and fluffy texture perfectly.
Classic Toppings
- Maple Syrup: Use pure Canadian maple syrup for its deep, natural sweetness and smooth finish.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened freshly whipped cream adds a fluffy, creamy contrast.
- Powdered Sugar: A dusting of powdered sugar provides a delicate sweetness and charming presentation.
Fruit & Nut Pairings
- Fresh Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries contribute a vibrant, tangy burst that balances the pancakes’ richness.
- Banana Slices: Ripe banana slices add natural sweetness and soft texture.
- Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Savory Complements
- Crispy Bacon or Sausages: Their saltiness complements the sweet pancakes, creating a full breakfast experience.
- Cream Cheese or Mascarpone: Spread a thin layer on warm pancakes for a creamy, slightly tangy addition.
Creative Drizzles and Sauces
- Berry Compote: Simmer mixed berries with a touch of sugar and lemon for a vibrant sauce that intensifies fruit flavors.
- Honey or Agave Nectar: As an alternative to syrup, these add gentle sweetness with distinctive floral notes.
- Nut Butters: Warm almond or peanut butter drizzled over adds richness and depth.
| Topping Category | Options | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet | Maple syrup, powdered sugar, honey | Sweet, smooth | Liquid, powdery |
| Fruity | Fresh berries, banana slices, compote | Tangy, fresh, natural | Juicy, soft |
| Nutty | Toasted walnuts, pecans, nut butters | Earthy, crunchy, rich | Crunchy, creamy |
| Dairy | Whipped cream, cream cheese, mascarpone | Creamy, rich, tangy | Fluffy, smooth |
| Savory | Bacon, sausage | Salty, smoky | Crispy |
Serving Tips
- Stack the pancakes with a pat of butter between each layer. The butter melts slowly adding richness to every bite.
- Warm your serving plates beforehand to keep the pancakes hot longer.
- For extra indulgence, top the stack with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries right before serving.
- Serve alongside fresh coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice for a balanced meal experience.
By combining these serving suggestions with our signature pancake recipe, we create a breakfast that feels elegant and satisfying every time.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy Clinton Street Baking Company Pancakes anytime, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we keep these fluffy delights fresh and ready for quick breakfasts or brunches.
Make-Ahead Pancake Batter
- Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance.
Combine all the ingredients following the original recipe, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and the batter to thicken slightly.
This actually enhances the pancake’s tenderness and depth of flavor.
Tip: Before cooking, give the batter a gentle stir to re-incorporate any settling ingredients without overmixing. Overmixing can deflate the batter and reduce fluffiness.
Storing Cooked Pancakes
- After cooking, cool the pancakes completely on a wire rack to avoid sogginess from trapped steam.
- Stack pancakes with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each one to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the stack to an airtight container or sealable plastic bag.
Refrigeration & Freezing Guidelines
| Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container, reheat gently on low heat or toaster oven. |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Freeze flat on baking sheet then transfer to freezer-safe bags; reheat in toaster or oven. |
Reheating Tips for Maximum Freshness
- Toaster or Toaster Oven: Toast pancakes on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until crisp edges form.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat for 10-12 minutes.
- Microwave: Use only as a last resort to avoid loss of texture. Heat in 20-second intervals covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of freshness and warmth, serve reheated pancakes with butter and a drizzle of pure maple syrup or warm berry compote.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we preserve the iconic fluffy texture and rich flavor of the Clinton Street Baking Company Pancakes, making every meal as delightful as the first bite.
Conclusion
Mastering the Clinton Street Baking Company pancake recipe brings a little bit of New York City’s breakfast magic right into our kitchens. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create those fluffy, flavorful pancakes that make every bite memorable.
Whether we’re enjoying them fresh off the griddle or reheating make-ahead batches, these pancakes offer a comforting start to any day. Let’s keep experimenting with toppings and add-ins to make this classic recipe uniquely ours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Clinton Street Baking Company pancakes unique?
Clinton Street Baking Company pancakes are famous for their fluffy texture and rich, balanced flavor. They combine lightness with heartiness, creating a perfect pancake that’s both satisfying and easy to make at home.
What ingredients are needed for these pancakes?
You need sifted all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Optional add-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips and toppings like maple syrup or whipped cream enhance flavor.
What equipment do I need to make these pancakes?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a flour sifter, a whisk, a non-stick skillet or griddle, a ¼ cup measure for batter portioning, and a fork or toothpick to check doneness.
How do I prepare the pancake batter properly?
Combine dry ingredients first, whisk wet ingredients separately, then gently fold wet into dry without overmixing. Leave the batter slightly lumpy to keep pancakes fluffy.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Flip pancakes when bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set. This usually happens after cooking on medium heat for a few minutes.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, the batter can be made up to 24 hours ahead. Refrigerate it to let flavors meld and improve pancake tenderness.
How should I store leftover pancakes?
Cool pancakes completely, stack with parchment paper between them, and store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
What are some good topping ideas for these pancakes?
Classic toppings include pure maple syrup, whipped cream, and powdered sugar. Fresh berries, bananas, nuts, or savory items like bacon add extra flavor and texture.
How do I reheat stored pancakes without losing texture?
Reheat refrigerated or frozen pancakes in a toaster, oven, or skillet over medium heat until warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The recipe is straightforward with clear steps and common ingredients, making it perfect for anyone who wants to recreate the iconic pancakes at home.