Use Buttermilk
The secret to the best pancakes is buttermilk. If your pancake mix calls for water or milk, substitute in an equal amount of buttermilk. Because of its acidity, buttermilk activates baking soda and helps baked goods rise, giving them a light, fluffy texture. No buttermilk in the fridge? Here’s how to make buttermilk.
Spice It Up
If you’re looking for how to make pancake mix better, the easiest option is to sprinkle in your favorite baking spices. Once you’ve mixed the batter, add in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger or pumpkin pie spice mix. Before serving, top your pancakes with a bit of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Sift the Mix
A quick and simple way to add extra fluff to your pancakes is to sift the mix as you pour it into the mixing bowl. Sifting the dry mix removes any tiny clumps that weigh down your pancakes. Sifting is also a great technique when making your own homemade pancake mix.
Add an Egg
Even if your pancake mix doesn’t call for an egg, mix one into the batter. The egg will add richness to the recipe and make the end result taste like homemade pancakes. If your pancake mix already calls for an egg, try adding an extra one.
Stir in Melted Butter
Melted butter is never a bad idea! When it comes to how to make pancake mix better, adding melted butter is a simple trick with noticeable results. You can substitute it for the oil in the mix recipe or just drizzle a little into the batter. It will give your pancake mix a thicker, creamy taste.
Fold in Ricotta
Some of the best pancake recipes have a surprising secret ingredient. Once you’ve mixed your pancake batter, fold in half a cup of ricotta cheese for the most luscious texture ever.
Don’t Forget the Mix-Ins
Add some sweetness to your pancake mix with your favorite mix-ins. Blueberries are a pancake staple, but it may be time to branch out. Try raspberries, sliced bananas, diced strawberries, chocolate chips, crunchy nuts or a handful of miniature marshmallows.
Pour on Homemade Syrup
Get that made-from-scratch taste with homemade syrup. Bake your pancakes according to the package directions, then pour on a homemade syrup like blueberry sauce or gingerbread-spiced syrup.
Get Creative with Toppings
Weekend mornings are special, so celebrate with an array of toppings for your pancake breakfast (you can even try arranging them on a pretty pancake charcuterie board!). Set out a variety of toppings like whipped cream, miniature chocolate chips, sprinkles, strawberry sauce or even breakfast cereal.