Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If not using store-bought buttermilk, combine milk and lemon juice in a liquid measuring cup and let stand for 5-10 minutes until slightly curdled.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, unbleached white flour, wheat germ, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk (or prepared substitute), olive oil, and eggs until fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a whisk or spatula until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine; avoid overmixing.
- Allow the batter to rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes; this helps hydrate the flours and improves pancake texture.
- Preheat a griddle or large non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly grease with a little olive oil or butter.
- Pour approximately cup of batter per pancake onto the hot griddle, leaving space between each.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
- Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and serve immediately with your preferred toppings.
Notes
Achieving fluffy, wholesome pancakes hinges on proper technique. First, ensure your buttermilk is at room temperature for better emulsification. If making your own with milk and lemon juice, let it sit for 5-10 minutes. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no dry streaks remain; overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough pancakes. Embrace the lumps! Allow the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes; this hydrates the flours and allows the leavening agents to begin reacting, resulting in a lighter crumb. Cook on a medium-hot griddle, testing with a small drop of water – it should sizzle immediately. For enhanced flavor, a dash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon can be added to the wet ingredients. Serve hot with pure maple syrup and fresh berries.
