Delightful Buttermilk Pancakes: Air Fryer Edition
There's nothing quite like the warm, fluffy texture of homemade buttermilk pancakes. Traditionally cooked on a stovetop, this versatile recipe is perfectly adaptable for air frying – a method that's both convenient and efficient. In this article, we'll delve into an easy-to-follow recipe, while also shedding light on some handy tips and tricks for better results.
Ingredients
This recipe is designed to serve 4, but you can easily adjust the quantities to serve more or fewer people:
- 240 ml (1 cup) of buttermilk
- 125 g (1 cup) of all-purpose flour
- 30 g (2 tablespoons) of granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 30 g (2 tablespoons) of melted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until they are well blended.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and gently mix them until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix – the batter should remain a bit lumpy.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket or trays with butter to prevent sticking.
- Spoon approximately 60 ml (¼ cup) of the batter for each pancake into the air fryer, ensuring they have enough room to expand. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry the pancakes for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown.
- Remove the pancakes from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients at room temperature can help the batter come together more smoothly.
- Fresh Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk contributes to the pancakes' tangy flavour and fluffy texture.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: Over-mixing the batter may result in tough pancakes. Stop mixing when you see small lumps in the batter.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: A preheated air fryer ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer for pancakes is not only time-saving but also reduces the use of oil, offering a healthier alternative. The circulating air ensures an evenly cooked pancake with a delightful crispy edge. It's a particularly useful method when cooking pancakes for a group, as it frees up stovetop space for other dishes.
Exploring Variations
Feel free to experiment with flavours and ingredients. Consider adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or a scoop of protein powder for added nutrition. Each variation brings a distinct flavour profile and offers an opportunity to cater to varied tastes and dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Air fryer buttermilk pancakes marry convenience with taste, giving your mornings a delightful lift without the hassle of traditional cooking. As you gain confidence with creating these pancakes, experiment with different toppings and mix-ins to personalise this classic recipe. So, break out your air fryer and treat yourself and loved ones to this modern twist on beloved buttermilk pancakes!