Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Karen

Indulge in the fluffiest and most delicious copycat McDonalds pancake recipe that will satisfy your cravings for a perfect breakfast treat. This easy-to-follow recipe will have you making stacks of golden-brown pancakes in no time, making it a great option for lazy Sundays or fun weeknight breakfast-for-dinner dishes.

Are you craving the best breakfast treat? Look no further than these homemade, fluffy pancakes inspired by the real deal McDonald’s Hotcakes. There is nothing better than homemade pancakes. This easy-to-follow copycat recipe will have you making stacks of golden-brown pancakes in no time, perfect for lazy Sundays or a fun weeknight breakfast-for-dinner dish.

Breakfast is my family’s favorite meals, whether it is Monte Cristo Waffle Sandwiches, Ham, Egg and Cheddar Breakfast Braid or Churros Mini Muffin Bites.

But we especially love our pancakes. Have you ever experienced the joy of indulging in McDonald’s pancakes? They are undeniably delicious pancakes, with their fluffy texture and crispy outer shell. These pancakes hold a special place in the hearts of many, evoking memories of enjoyable breakfasts with friends and family.

Whenever we go on a road trip, we always make it a point to stop at a McDonald’s drive-thru for an easy breakfast as we are heading out of town. My kids like the hash browns, my husband likes the McMuffin, and I always go for the Big Breakfast with Hotcakes. It’s such a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Version of McDonalds Recipe – the BEST pancake recipe

This is the best recipe to capture the essence of McDonald’s pancakes perfectly – just like the real thing! With a single bowl and simple ingredients which you probably have in your pantry, you can recreate the magic of these iconic hotcakes in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re making breakfast for the entire family or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is the best way to start your day. Once you try this easy recipe, you’ll be making it again and again.

Ingredient list to make these copycat McDonald’s pancakes

For the fluffiest pancakes ever, gather the following ingredients:

All-purpose flour: The base ingredient for the pancake batter, providing structure and texture to the pancakes. See more below on substitution.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the pancakes.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Only half a teaspoon salt needed to enhance the flavor of the pancakes and balance the sweetness of the batter.

Milk: Adds moisture to the batter and contributes to the tender texture of the pancakes.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the pancakes.

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the pancakes. You can also use vegetable oil instead.

Cooking spray: Prevents the pancakes from sticking to the hot griddle or skillet, ensuring easy flipping and a golden-brown exterior.

Step-by-step Instructions for Making These Copycat McDonald’s Pancakes (Hotcakes)

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by measuring out your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt using a wire whisk. Be sure to sift the dry ingredients to remove any lumps and ensure an even distribution of the baking powder. This will help the pancakes rise evenly and become fluffy.

2. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is fully melted but not too hot when added to the mixture, as it could cook the eggs. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the eggs are completely incorporated, and the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This helps create a light, airy batter.

3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently mix them together until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix the batter—it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing will result in dense pancakes, so aim for a thick batter with a slightly lumpy texture.

4. Preheat Your Pan

Before cooking the pancakes, heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil, butter, or cooking spray to the pan to prevent sticking. Allow the pan to warm up for a couple of minutes. A good way to test if your pan is ready is to sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface; if they dance and evaporate quickly, your pan is ready.

5. Cook the Pancakes

Once the pan is preheated, use a measuring cup or ladle to pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Make sure there is enough space between the pancakes so they don’t touch. Cook the pancakes until you start to see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges of the pancake look set—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes on the first side. Once these signs appear, use a spatula to carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, or until it turns golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan lightly between batches if necessary.

6. Keep the Pancakes Warm

To keep the pancakes warm while you finish cooking the rest, transfer them to a baking sheet and place the sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). This will ensure your pancakes stay warm and soft without drying out.

With these steps, you’ll have fluffy, delicious pancakes that taste just like the ones from McDonald’s—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving a stack of comforting pancakes!

What temperature should I use to cook pancakes on stove?

For cooking pancakes on the stove, I recommended using medium heat, which is around 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). This temperature allows the pancakes to cook evenly without burning on the outside while ensuring that the inside cooks through properly. Adjust the heat as needed during cooking to prevent the pancakes from over-browning. Just remember the first batch will take longer, but keep an eye on the subsequent batches once the griddle or pan is heated up.

What are the best frying pans for making pancakes?

The best frying pan for making pancakes is typically one with a non-stick surface for best results. This type of pan allows for easy flipping and ensures that the pancakes don’t stick to the pan, resulting in beautifully golden-brown pancakes. Additionally, consider a frying pan with a wide and flat bottom (such as a square griddle) to provide ample space for cooking multiple pancakes at once. A pan with sloped edges can also make flipping pancakes easier. Some popular options include ceramic non-stick pans, cast iron skillets with a well-seasoned surface, and aluminum non-stick pans.

What are some toppings to put on McDonalds pancakes?

A pat of butter and a drizzle of maple syrup is all you need to serve with these pancakes, but you can also use pancake syrup (which is what McDonald’s serves is with) instead of real maple syrup. Enhance them further with these delicious toppings ideas:

Freshly-cut fruit: Sliced strawberries, bananas, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorites.
Whipped cream or whipped topping: Light and fluffy, adding a creamy texture and sweetness.
Nutella: Decadent and chocolatey, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Honey: Offers a natural sweetness with floral undertones.
Peanut Butter: Creamy and rich, pairs well with bananas or chocolate chips.
Jam or Jelly: Adds a burst of fruity flavor, from strawberry to raspberry to apricot.
Chocolate Chips: Melty and indulgent, creating a delightful contrast with the fluffy pancakes.
Nuts: Chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts add crunch and nutty flavor.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes provide a tropical twist and satisfying crunch.
Cinnamon Sugar: A simple yet delightful combination of cinnamon and sugar.
Lemon Curd: Bright and zesty, adding a burst of citrus flavor.
Fruit Compote: Cooked fruit mixture, such as berry compote or apple compote, adds sweetness and texture.
Nut Butter Drizzle: Warm up almond butter or cashew butter and drizzle over pancakes for a nutty flavor boost.
Sprinkles: Colorful and fun, perfect for a festive pancake experience, especially for kids.

These toppings can be mixed and matched to create endless combinations, ensuring a pancake feast everyone will enjoy!

What to Serve With These Pancakes

Complement your pancakes with these tasty sides for a perfect breakfast combo (make it a complete McDonald’s Big Breakfast!):

Crispy bacon or sausage patties
Scrambled eggs or an omelette
Hash browns or breakfast potatoes
Freshly brewed coffee or orange juice

How long do pancakes last in the fridge?

Cooked pancakes can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap, let them cool to room temperature, and transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag to maintain freshness. If you don’t plan to eat them within this timeframe, consider freezing them for longer-term storage.

How to store leftover pancakes in the freezer?

To store leftover pancakes, allow the pancakes to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the pancakes to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper. Store in the freezer for up to 1 month.

To reheat the pancakes, simply pop the pancakes in the toaster or microwave until heated through.

Are McDonald’s pancakes vegan?

No, McDonald’s pancakes are not vegan as they contain ingredients like milk, eggs, and butter.

Can you make this pancake recipe without eggs?

Yes, there are several egg alternatives you can use in pancake recipes:

Flaxseed or Chia Seed “Eggs”: To make one flax or chia “egg,” mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency. This works well as a binding agent in pancakes.
Applesauce or Mashed Banana: Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed ripe banana to replace one egg in pancake recipes. These ingredients add moisture and help bind the batter together.
Commercial Egg Replacer: You can find commercial egg replacers in most grocery stores, such as Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Vegan Egg Replacer. Follow the package instructions for the appropriate amount to use in place of eggs in your pancake recipe.
Aquafaba: Aquafaba is the liquid found in canned chickpeas or the cooking liquid from cooking your own chickpeas. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to replace one egg. Whip it until fluffy before adding it to the pancake batter.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour in this pancake recipe with a gluten-free flour blend?

Yes, I like Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Flour Gluten Free Measure for Measure Flour. As a tip for baking with gluten free flour blend, let the batter sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking them so it can absorb more moisture and has less of that “gritty” taste gluten-free pancakes tend to have. You can learn more about this trick on my Gluten-Free Banana Bread post.

Can you make this pancake recipe without milk? What are some milk substitutes for pancakes?

Yes, you can make pancakes without milk by using alternative liquid options. Here are a few pancake milk substitutes:

Water: Simply replace the milk with an equal amount of water. The pancakes may be slightly less rich but will still be tasty.
Dairy-free milk alternatives: Substitute the milk with any dairy-free alternative such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or rice milk. These options provide different flavors and textures, but make sure you use an alternative milk that is unsweetened and unflavored.
Yogurt or buttermilk: If you have yogurt or buttermilk on hand, you can use them as a substitute for milk. Simply thin them out with a bit of water or another liquid to achieve the desired consistency.

When using these substitutes, it’s essential to adjust the consistency of the pancake batter accordingly. You may need to add a bit more or less liquid to achieve the right consistency. Additionally, keep in mind that using different liquids may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the pancakes, but they will still be delicious!

How long is the pancake batter good for?

Typically, homemade pancake batter can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. I actually like to make the batter the night before and store it in the fridge for cooking the next day. Beyond that, it’s best to freeze the batter for longer-term storage. Frozen pancake batter can last for up to 1 month.

Now you can enjoy the taste of the perfect McDonalds hotcakes in the comfort of your own home with this easy copycat recipe. It is a great base pancake recipe for add-ins such as chocolate chips, blueberries, and even some green food coloring for St. Patricks Day!

Whether you’re serving it to the entire family on a lazy Sunday or treating yourself to a delicious breakfast, these pancakes are sure to impress. So next time you’re in the mood for pancakes, try this easy copycat McDonald’s pancake recipe for the fluffiest pancakes ever!

Print Pin

Quick and Easy Copycat McDonalds Pancake (Hotcakes)

Servings 4

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsps baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup sugar
2 large whole eggs beaten
2 cups milk
1/4 cup melted butter
Oil or cooking spray for cooking

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the beaten eggs, milk, and oil.
Gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter.
Pour a ladleful of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges look set, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. Enjoy!