Sour Milk Recipes Pancakes for Fluffy, Delicious Breakfasts

Originally posted on March 10, 2022 @ 6:19 am

Nothing quite beats the warm, fluffy delight of homemade pancakes on a lazy weekend morning. If you’ve ever found yourself with a carton of sour milk nearing its expiration date, don’t toss it out!

Sour milk pancakes are a fantastic way to use that tangy milk while creating a stack of tender, flavorful pancakes that are sure to please everyone at the breakfast table. This recipe transforms an ingredient often considered a kitchen nuisance into a secret weapon for irresistibly light and fluffy pancakes with a subtle, pleasant tang.

Using sour milk in pancakes not only enhances the texture but also adds a depth of flavor that regular milk just can’t match. Whether you’re aiming for a classic breakfast or looking to impress brunch guests, this recipe will become a favorite in your repertoire.

Plus, it’s an economical and sustainable way to reduce food waste while indulging in a comfort food classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sour milk pancakes recipe is a true kitchen gem for several reasons. First, it makes excellent use of sour milk, turning what might be seen as a waste product into something delicious and desirable.

The natural acidity in sour milk reacts with the baking soda, creating bubbles that make the pancakes incredibly light and fluffy.

Moreover, these pancakes boast a subtle tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness of maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings. The recipe is straightforward, uses common pantry ingredients, and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Plus, it’s easily adaptable for dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour milk (or buttermilk as a substitute)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Nonstick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Cooling rack or plate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sour milk mixture: If your milk is not already sour, you can make sour milk by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together to ensure even distribution.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sour milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  4. Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep pancakes tender; some lumps are okay.
  5. Heat the skillet: Place your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter to coat the surface.
  6. Cook the pancakes: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pour batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Flip and finish: Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Serve warm: Transfer pancakes to a cooling rack or plate. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.

Tips & Variations

“For the fluffiest pancakes, let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the baking soda and sour milk to react fully.”

  • Use buttermilk: If sour milk isn’t available, buttermilk works beautifully as a direct substitute with the same tangy effect.
  • Add fruit or nuts: Fold in blueberries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts right before cooking for added texture and flavor.
  • Make it vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
  • Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor.
  • Storage: Leftover pancakes can be frozen. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving, 2 pancakes)
Calories 220 kcal
Protein 6 g
Carbohydrates 28 g
Fat 9 g
Saturated Fat 5 g
Sodium 350 mg
Sugar 6 g
Fiber 1 g

Serving Suggestions

These sour milk pancakes are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings and sides. For a classic touch, drizzle with pure maple syrup and add a pat of butter.

Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar also complement the subtle tang of the pancakes beautifully.

For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage and a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt. Nut butters or fruit compotes make delicious alternatives that add richness and natural sweetness.

You can even layer pancakes with cream cheese and jam for a decadent brunch treat.

Conclusion

Sour milk pancakes are an excellent way to turn an often overlooked ingredient into a breakfast masterpiece. These pancakes deliver a perfect balance of fluffiness and tang, making them a unique twist on a beloved classic.

The recipe is simple, economical, and easily adaptable, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your kitchen routine.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy solo morning, these pancakes will brighten your day and reduce waste simultaneously. Give this recipe a try and discover how sour milk can elevate your pancake game to delicious new heights.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Sour Milk Pancakes

Description: Fluffy pancakes made using sour milk for a tangy flavor and tender texture. Perfect for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sour milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, beat the egg and mix with sour milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
  5. Pour 1/4 cup batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
  6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
  7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition: Calories: 210 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 26g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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