📖 Instructions

1. Get Started: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed before you add the wet ingredients.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined. Don't worry about a few lumps; it adds character.
3. Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. A few lumps are okay, but avoid overmixing. Overmixing leads to tough pancakes, and nobody wants that.
4. Color the Batter (Optional): If you're going for the red, white, and blue theme, divide the batter into three bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and blue food coloring to another. Leave the third bowl plain for the white color. I like using gel food coloring for more vibrant colors, but liquid works too.
5. Heat the Griddle: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large pan over medium heat. To test if it's ready, flick a few drops of water onto the surface. If they sizzle and evaporate quickly, you're good to go.
6. Pour the Batter: Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. If you're doing the colored pancakes, try to arrange the colors for a festive look. It doesn't have to be perfect; that's part of the charm.
7. Cook the Pancakes: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip the pancakes when bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set. Don't press down on them; let them rise naturally.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, like maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar. And don't forget a pat of butter! Seriously, is there anything better than a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes?
9. Optional: To make star shapes, use a star-shaped cookie cutter dipped in oil. Place it on the griddle and pour the batter inside. Remove the cutter once the pancake starts to set. This is a fun way to add an extra touch of patriotism!