Dairy-Free Pancake Recipe

Easy Fluffy Dairy-Free Pancake Recipe

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Updated on April 17, 2024

Calling all pancake lovers with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a new twist on a classic breakfast! This Dairy-Free Pancake Recipe is here to fulfill your breakfast dreams. 

Forget about missing out on fluffy, golden pancakes – this recipe delivers all the flavour and texture you crave without any dairy products. This easy recipe is about to become your new weekend hero. 

It is incredibly simple (no fancy ingredients or techniques required!) and delivers light, delicious pancakes that rival any traditional recipe. Let’s ditch the dairy and whip up a batch of pure breakfast bliss!

Can You Make Pancakes without Milk?

Stack of golden dairy-free pancakes topped with fresh berries and maple syrup.

Absolutely! You can whip up delicious pancakes even without milk. There are two main approaches:

Water Substitute

This is the simplest method. Just replace the milk in your favourite pancake recipe with an equal amount of water. While it works, the pancakes might be a touch bland since milk adds some richness. To compensate, you can add a bit more melted butter, vanilla extract, or even a sprinkle of sugar to the batter for extra flavour.

Plant-Based Milk Substitute

If you’d like to keep the creaminess associated with milk, opt for a dairy-free alternative. Popular options include almond, oat, soy, or even coconut milk. The ratio remains the same – use the same amount of plant-based milk as you would have used regular milk. This way, you get delicious dairy-free pancakes that are still fluffy and flavorful.

With these swaps, anyone can enjoy fluffy pancakes without dairy. This means even those who are lactose intolerant won’t miss out on this tasty treat! So, let’s set the table and prepare for some milk-free pancake fun!

Substitutions for Dairy Milk

There’s good news for those of you who are keen to whip up dairy-free pancakes; there are numerous tasty and nutritious alternatives that can be used to substitute dairy milk.

Milk SubstituteBenefits
Coconut MilkCoconut milk is a rich, creamy and dairy-free alternative to regular milk. It can be used in the same quantity as dairy milk in pancake recipes and lends a subtle tropical flavour to your breakfast.
Almond MilkAlmond milk has a light flavour and consistency, making it an ideal substitute for anyone wanting to cut out dairy. Use it in the same ratio as you would dairy milk in pancake recipes.
Lactose-Free MilkFor those who are lactose intolerant, lactose-free milk is a suitable replacement for dairy milk. It has the same consistency and flavour so that you won’t notice a difference in your pancakes.
Soy MilkSoy milk is another dairy-free alternative packed with protein. Its creamier consistency may result in a slightly thicker pancake batter, but it won’t affect the delicious taste of your pancakes.
Oat MilkOat milk is a popular dairy-free substitute with a slight sweetness that works well in pancakes. Use it as a 1:1 substitution for dairy milk in your recipe.
Cashew Milk
Cashew MilkCashew milk produces a creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavour in pancakes. As with other alternatives, you can substitute it in equal amounts to dairy milk.

When making dairy-free pancakes, always opt for unsweetened varieties of milk alternatives for the best results. With many options available, anyone can enjoy light, fluffy pancakes, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Dairy-Free Pancake Recipe

These pancakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavour, thanks to the combination of plant-based milk and a touch of vanilla extract. They’re perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
  • 3 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  2. Whisk together the almond milk, canola oil, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your pancakes tough.
  4. Heat a lightly greased griddle or skillet over medium heat.
  5. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter per pancake onto the griddle.
  6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Serve immediately with your favourite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

Tips

  • For extra fluffy pancakes, separate the egg and beat the egg white until stiff peaks form. Then, gently fold the egg white into the batter.
  • If you don’t have almond milk, you can use other plant-based milk, such as oat, soy, or coconut.
  • To make these pancakes vegan, use a flaxseed egg instead of a regular egg. To make a flaxseed egg, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk it into the batter.
  • These pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or a skillet over low heat.

Variations and Substitutions

So, let’s get into the alternatives and variations for our dairy-free pancake recipe.

Dairy-Free SubstitutionVariation
Oat MilkThis milk substitute works well in our pancake recipe. It renders an extra fluffy texture that dairy-free kids and lactose-free adults can relish.
Almond MilkIt’s a wonderful addition to pancakes. It makes them dairy-free and adds a slightly nutty flavour, providing a unique touch to our pancake recipe.
Gluten-Free OptionFor those who are dairy-free and gluten-free, we have got you covered. Just substitute the regular flour with gluten-free flour to enjoy the same delicious pancakes without any worry.

Moving on, you can also experiment with breakfast sides while serving these pancakes. Some popular sides include fresh fruits, a nut butter dollop, or a maple syrup drizzle. The possibilities are endless when you get creative in the kitchen.

Healthier Options for Pancakes

Pancakes can definitely be a healthy and satisfying breakfast option! Here are some ways to make your pancakes a bit healthier:

Base Ingredients

Go Whole Grain: Swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, oat flour, or a blend of both. Whole grains offer more fibre and nutrients than refined white flour.

Add Protein Power: Consider incorporating protein sources into your batter. Cottage cheese, mashed banana, or even a scoop of protein powder can boost the staying power of your pancakes.

Fruit and Veggie Power: Don’t limit pancakes to sweet toppings. Explore recipes that incorporate shredded vegetables like zucchini or carrots or even mashed fruits like banana or apple directly into the batter.

Sugar and Sweeteners

Reduce Sugar: Many pancake recipes call for a fair amount of sugar. Try reducing the amount by half and see if you still enjoy the flavour. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like mashed banana, dates, or pure maple syrup.

Fats and Oils

Healthy Fats: Opt for healthy fats like avocado or melted coconut oil instead of butter or vegetable oil.

Toppings

Ditch the Syrup: While maple syrup is a classic, it’s pure sugar. Explore healthier toppings like fresh fruit, chopped nuts, a dollop of Greek yoghurt, or a drizzle of honey.

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Topping Ideas for Your Pancakes

Who says dairy-free means boring? When it comes to topping your delicious dairy-free pancakes, a whole world of flavour is waiting to be explored! Here are some ideas to inspire your next breakfast masterpiece:

Fruity Freshness

  • Classic with a Twist: Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries are always crowd-pleasers. Drizzle with a touch of agave nectar or pure maple syrup for extra sweetness.
  • Tropical Twist: Sliced mango, pineapple, or kiwi add a vibrant pop of colour and flavour.
  • Compote Creation: Whip up a quick compote by simmering your favourite fruits with a splash of water and a touch of natural sweetener. This adds a warm, syrupy touch.

Nutty Delights

  • Chopped Paradise: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a delightful crunch and a healthy dose of protein.
  • Nut Butter Bliss: Top your pancakes with a dollop of your favourite nut butter—almond, peanut, or cashew—and they all work beautifully!

Other Dairy-Free Dreamland

  • Coconut Cream Magic: A dollop of chilled coconut cream adds a luxurious, creamy texture.
  • Spiced Perfection: A cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice sprinkle adds a warm and cosy touch.
  • Chocolate Celebration: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate or top with dairy-free chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
  • Savoury Surprise: For a savoury twist, try topping your pancakes with avocado slices, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Bonus Tip

Don’t forget the power of homemade! Whip up a batch of dairy-free whipped cream using coconut cream or soaked cashews for an extra special touch.

Freezing Dairy-free Pancakes

Absolutely! Freezing pancakes is a great way to save leftovers or enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast on busy mornings. Here’s a guide to freezing pancakes like a pro:

Preparation is Key

  1. Cook and Cool Completely:  Make sure your pancakes are fully cooked through on both sides before freezing. Let them cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. This prevents them from sticking together and getting soggy.
  2. Separate the Pancakes:  Don’t stack pancakes directly on top of each other when freezing. This can lead to them sticking together in a clumpy mess. Here are two methods to prevent this:
  • Single Layer Flash Freeze: Arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour or until the pancakes are frozen solid.
  • Parchment Paper Separator: Place a small square of parchment paper or aluminium foil between each pancake before stacking them in a container.

Choose Your Container

  1. Freezer-Safe Options:  Pick an airtight container suitable for the freezer. Options include reusable silicone bags, freezer-safe plastic containers, or even heavy-duty aluminium foil.
  2. Label It! Don’t forget to label your container with the date you froze the pancakes. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

Freezing Time

Pancakes can be stored safely in the freezer for 2-3 months. However, for the best texture and flavour, enjoying them within 1-2 months is recommended.

Reheating Magic

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen pancakes, there are a few ways to reheat them:

  • Microwave: Place a desired number of pancakes on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high power for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through, flipping halfway.
  • Toaster Oven: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the pancakes in aluminium foil and heat for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
  • Skillet: Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium heat. Place the frozen pancakes directly in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until warmed through.

With these tips, you can freeze and reheat your pancakes with confidence, ensuring a delicious and convenient breakfast option anytime!

Vegan Pancake Paradise

Craving fluffy, delicious pancakes but following a vegan diet? Fear not! The world of vegan pancakes is bursting with flavour and creativity. Here are some recipe ideas and tips to get you started:

Classic Vegan Delights

Simple is Best: Start with a basic vegan pancake recipe like the one we shared earlier. It uses plant-based milk, egg substitutes, and common pantry staples.

Fruity Fusion Fun

Banana Bliss: Add mashed banana to your batter for extra moisture, sweetness, and a subtle banana flavour. Top with sliced bananas, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Berry Burst: Fold fresh or frozen berries into your batter for a burst of fruity goodness. Top with additional berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a dollop of vegan whipped cream.

Spiced Up Specialties

Pumpkin Perfection: Add pumpkin puree and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to your batter for a cosy fall-inspired pancake. Top with a drizzle of vegan maple syrup and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.

Chocolate Chip Celebration: Fold vegan chocolate chips into your batter for a decadent treat. Top with additional chocolate chips, sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce.

Savoury Surprise

Veggie Power: For a healthy twist, add grated zucchini or carrots to your batter. Top with sliced avocado, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Beyond the Recipe

Milk Matters: Choose your favourite plant-based milk! Popular options include almond, oat, soy, or even coconut milk. Each adds a slightly different flavour profile, so experiment and find your favourite.

Egg Replacements: There are several vegan egg substitutes that work well in pancakes. Mashed bananas, flaxseed eggs (made with ground flaxseed and water), or commercially available vegan egg replacers are all great options.

Tips and Tricks to Making the Perfect Dairy-Free Pancakes

Making delicious vegan pancakes that are dairy-free is easier than you may think. Here are some tips for success:

First, make sure to use a good non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond or soy milk. These options provide the same creamy texture as dairy milk and won’t affect the taste of your pancakes.

Next, don’t forget to add a secret ingredient – apple cider vinegar! This gives your pancakes a light and fluffy texture. Just mix it with the non-dairy milk and let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to your batter.

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You can opt for applesauce to avoid using oil in your recipe. It adds moisture to the pancakes without affecting the flavour.

Lastly, be open to experimenting with different substitutions based on your dietary preferences or restrictions. For healthier options, try using gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour

Conclusion

Whether following a special diet or just looking for a healthier option, these pancakes will satisfy your cravings without any dairy. Try out different variations and enjoy fluffy and flavorful pancakes that everyone will love!

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