Is there anything better than waking up to a stack of warm, golden pancakes? Whether it's Sunday brunch or a cozy weekday breakfast, pancakes are a timeless comfort food. And when they're vegan? Even better—for your health, the planet, and the animals.
This fluffy vegan pancake recipe is everything you want: light, airy, and made with pantry staples. There are no complicated egg replacements or hard-to-find ingredients—just classic flavor and texture made 100% plant-based.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based chef, this simple recipe is bound to become your go-to for mornings when only pancakes will do.
Why Make Vegan Pancakes?
Traditional pancakes often include eggs, milk, and butter. But none of those are necessary for fluffy, flavorful results. In fact, making vegan pancakes is easier than ever, and they’re just as satisfying.
Benefits of Vegan Pancakes:
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No dairy or eggs: Ideal for those with allergies or dietary preferences
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Cholesterol-free: Better for heart health
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Lower environmental impact: A small breakfast choice that supports sustainability
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Simple and affordable: Uses ingredients you likely already have at home
With this vegan pancake recipe, you’ll get all the indulgence and none of the compromise.
Key Ingredients for Fluffy Vegan Pancakes
This recipe uses minimal ingredients that deliver maximum flavor and fluff.
Dry Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier twist)
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2 tablespoons sugar (organic preferred for vegan purity)
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
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1 1/4 cups non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk all work well)
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
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2 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or melted coconut oil)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
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Fresh blueberries or sliced bananas
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Dairy-free chocolate chips
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A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg
Step-by-Step Vegan Pancake Instructions
These pancakes come together in less than 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
Step 1: Make Vegan Buttermilk
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the non-dairy milk with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This will curdle slightly to mimic buttermilk, which adds fluff and tang.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour the vegan buttermilk into the dry ingredients. Add the oil and vanilla extract. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix—lumps are okay! Overmixing can result in tough pancakes.
Step 4: Let the Batter Rest
Let your batter sit for 5 minutes. This allows the baking powder and soda to activate fully and gives you a lighter texture.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease if needed. Use a 1/4-cup measure to pour the batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2–3 minutes), then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Repeat until all the batter is used.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Pancakes
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Don’t Overmix the Batter
Mix just until the ingredients come together. A few lumps will disappear as the pancakes cook. -
Let the Batter Rest
This activates the leavening agents for fluffier results. -
Medium Heat is Best
Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Stick to medium heat for even browning. -
Grease Your Pan Lightly
Use oil or vegan butter to prevent sticking and get that crispy edge. -
Customize with Toppings
Top with maple syrup, berries, sliced bananas, or even a dollop of nut butter.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about vegan pancakes is how easily they can be customized. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. Banana Pancakes
Mash half a ripe banana and fold it into the batter. Sweet, moist, and full of flavor.
2. Blueberry Lemon Pancakes
Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries and a teaspoon of lemon zest.
3. Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Fold in 1/4 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
4. Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Add 1/3 cup of pumpkin puree and a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Protein Boost Pancakes
Add a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder and adjust the milk accordingly.
How to Store and Reheat
Made too many pancakes? No problem. These vegan pancakes store beautifully.
Refrigerator:
Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Layer pancakes between parchment paper and freeze in a sealed bag or container. Reheat in the toaster, oven, or microwave.
Reheating Tip:
To bring them back to life, reheat in a skillet for 1–2 minutes on each side. This keeps them crisp and fresh-tasting.
Common Questions About Vegan Pancakes
Are vegan pancakes healthy?
Yes! They’re lower in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. Use whole wheat flour, reduce sugar, or add fruit for a healthier spin.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Oat flour also works well.
What’s the best vegan milk for pancakes?
Oat and soy milk yield a creamier texture, while almond and rice milk offer a lighter consistency. All are great options.
Can I skip the oil?
You can substitute applesauce or mashed banana for oil. The texture may be slightly denser, but still delicious.
Serve With These Delicious Toppings
Your pancakes are only as good as your toppings. Try these vegan-friendly additions:
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Pure maple syrup
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Fresh strawberries or raspberries
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Sliced banana with cinnamon
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Coconut whipped cream
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Crushed nuts or granola
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Chia jam or fruit compote
Pancakes are the perfect canvas. Go simple or go decadent—it’s all up to you.
Vegan Pancakes and Your Lifestyle
Starting your day with a plant-based meal sets the tone for compassionate, sustainable choices. Pancakes may seem like a small detail, but they reflect something bigger: that vegan food can be just as comforting, indulgent, and easy as anything else.
And just like your breakfast choices, what you wear also sends a message. At The Dharma Store, you can find vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton—perfect for expressing your values in everyday life. They're stylish, ethical, and 100% cruelty-free.
Final Thoughts
This fluffy vegan pancake recipe is your ticket to easy, satisfying breakfasts—without the eggs or dairy. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a foolproof dish that everyone will love, whether they follow a vegan lifestyle or not.
Cooking vegan isn’t about giving things up. It’s about reimagining them. Pancakes included.
For more inspiration and to express your plant-based beliefs with purpose, check out The Dharma Store. Because being vegan is more than a diet—it’s a lifestyle.