Cloud-Like Gluten-Free Pancakes

The Ultimate Fluffy Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Pancakes: Easy Recipe & Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare to be amazed by these truly outstanding gluten-free pancakes! Crafted with the reliable Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour, this recipe consistently delivers perfectly fluffy, delightfully tender, and irresistibly delicious pancakes that both kids and adults will adore. What makes them even better? They’re incredibly simple to whip up and can be made in a double batch and frozen, ensuring a quick and wholesome breakfast is always on hand for those busy weekday mornings.

A tall stack of golden brown gluten-free pancakes, perfectly fluffy and ready to be drizzled with syrup.

My passion for gluten-free pancakes runs deep; it’s a daily ritual, a constant source of breakfast joy, come rain or shine. Over the years, this particular gluten-free pancake recipe has become so ingrained in my memory that I no longer need to consult a cookbook. And believe me when I say, this isn’t just *a* recipe; it’s *the* recipe for the best gluten-free pancakes you’ll ever make – consistently fluffy, fuss-free, and wonderfully homestyle. They truly capture the essence of classic pancakes without any gluten.

Beyond their exceptional taste and texture, these Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free pancakes are incredibly practical. They freeze beautifully and reheat like a dream, maintaining their soft, pillowy texture. My favorite strategy involves dedicating a small amount of time on a weekend to prepare a large batch. Once cooled, I store them in the freezer, ready to be transformed into a piping hot breakfast in mere minutes. Just pull one out, a quick microwave reheat, and breakfast is served – a perfect solution for maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle without sacrificing convenience or flavor.

Three golden gluten-free pancakes artfully arranged on a white plate, ready for toppings.

Why This Gluten-Free Pancake Recipe Will Transform Your Mornings

A reliable and delicious pancake recipe is a game-changer, especially for those embracing a gluten-free diet or anyone who simply loves a good brunch. Here’s a comprehensive look at why this particular recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen:

  • Achieve Unrivaled Fluffiness Every Time: Say goodbye to dense, heavy gluten-free pancakes. This recipe is specifically formulated to create light, airy, and incredibly fluffy pancakes, thanks to a balanced combination of leavening agents and the right gluten-free flour blend. You’ll be amazed at their perfect rise!
  • Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Mornings: One of the greatest advantages of these pancakes is their freezer-friendly nature. Prepare a large batch, freeze them, and you’ll have instant gluten-free breakfast options ready to go throughout the week. This saves valuable time and ensures you never skip the most important meal of the day.
  • Features Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1:1 All-Purpose Flour: This recipe is specifically developed and tested with Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour, a widely available and highly-rated blend. This ensures consistent results, mimicking the taste and texture of traditional wheat-based pancakes without any gluten.
  • Easily Convert to a Convenient Gluten-Free Pancake Mix: Love the idea of homemade pancakes but short on time? You can pre-measure and combine the dry ingredients to create your own gluten-free pancake mix. This simple hack makes spontaneous pancake mornings even easier – just add wet ingredients and cook!
  • Kid-Friendly and Effortlessly Simple to Make: The straightforward instructions and universally appealing taste make these pancakes a hit with children. The simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results, making it a great recipe for family breakfasts or teaching kids to cook.
  • Customizable for Endless Flavor Combinations: While delicious on their own, these pancakes serve as a perfect canvas for your favorite additions. From chocolate chips and fresh berries to various spices and extracts, the possibilities for customization are truly endless.
  • Naturally Delicious, No Compromises: You won’t feel like you’re eating a “gluten-free” alternative. The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, proving that gluten-free can be just as, if not more, delicious than its traditional counterpart.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fluffy Gluten-Free Pancakes

This recipe prides itself on using readily available pantry staples and simple, wholesome ingredients. I intentionally keep these items stocked in my kitchen so I can indulge in these delightful gluten-free pancakes whenever a craving strikes!

A collection of fresh ingredients for pancakes, including flour, milk, eggs, and oil, laid out on a surface.
  • Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour: This specific blend is my top recommendation for achieving the perfect gluten-free pancakes. There are two primary reasons for this. Firstly, it’s formulated to provide a taste and texture remarkably similar to traditional wheat flour, which is crucial for authentic-tasting pancakes. Secondly, this entire recipe was developed and rigorously tested using this exact flour. It’s important to understand that not all gluten-free flour blends behave the same way in recipes due to varying compositions of rice flours, starches, and binders. While you *can* experiment with other 1:1 blends, be aware that the results might differ. If you do substitute, always ensure your chosen blend contains xanthan gum, as it provides the necessary elasticity and structure that gluten typically offers.
  • Granulated Sugar: A small amount of sugar is included not just for sweetness, but also to aid in the browning of the pancakes and to enhance their overall tenderness. It contributes to that lovely golden crust. If you prefer, brown sugar can be substituted for a slightly deeper, caramel-like flavor.
  • Baking Powder: This leavening agent is critical for creating the initial lift and airy structure in the pancake batter. Without sufficient baking powder, your pancakes would be noticeably dense and flat, lacking that signature fluffiness.
  • Baking Soda: Working in conjunction with the baking powder, baking soda reacts with the acidic components in the dairy (like the lactic acid in milk, even in whole milk, or a touch of tang if using buttermilk or an acidic non-dairy milk) to produce even more bubbles, leading to an enhanced rise and a lighter texture.
  • Salt: Just a pinch of salt plays a vital role in balancing the flavors. It doesn’t make the pancakes salty, but rather accentuates the sweetness from the sugar and deepens the overall taste profile, preventing the pancakes from tasting bland.
  • Whole Milk: While many classic pancake recipes call for buttermilk for its acidity and tenderizing properties, I specifically designed this recipe to use readily available whole milk. I wanted to ensure a fluffy outcome without the need for a special trip to the store for buttermilk. Whole milk contributes richness and moisture. If you prefer non-dairy options, almond milk or coconut milk (from a carton, not canned) can work as substitutes, but be aware that the pancakes might not be quite as light and airy due to differences in fat content and acidity.
  • Vegetable Oil: This ingredient contributes significantly to the pancakes’ tender and moist texture. Vegetable oil is my preferred choice for its neutral flavor and convenience, but canola oil or melted unsalted butter are also excellent alternatives. Using oil or butter in the batter ensures the pancakes stay soft and don’t dry out.
  • Large Egg: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and providing structural integrity to the pancakes. They help prevent the pancakes from falling apart and contribute to their rich texture. I haven’t personally tested this recipe with a flax egg or other vegan egg substitutes, so I can’t guarantee the same results for this specific formulation.
  • Maple Syrup: The classic, indispensable topping! While not mixed into the batter, a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup is the perfect finishing touch for these fluffy delights.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting These Fluffy Gluten-Free Pancakes

Creating these incredibly delicious gluten-free pancakes is surprisingly straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, meticulously combine the Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly stir these dry ingredients together, ensuring they are well-integrated and evenly distributed. This step is crucial for consistent leavening and flavor throughout your pancakes. Set the bowl aside.
  2. A bowl filled with a white flour mixture, with a whisk resting in it.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate liquid measuring cup or a smaller bowl, measure out the whole milk, crack in the large egg, and add the vegetable oil. Use a fork or a small whisk to thoroughly combine these liquid ingredients until they are uniformly mixed. Proper emulsification here contributes to a smooth batter.
  4. A bowl containing flour, with milk being poured in and an egg visible, indicating the start of mixing wet and dry ingredients.
  5. Gently Mix Together: Pour the combined wet ingredients directly into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a whisk or spatula, stir gently until a smooth batter forms. It’s crucial not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps are perfectly fine and even desirable. Overmixing can develop the starches in the gluten-free flour, leading to tougher, less fluffy pancakes.
  6. A bowl filled with gluten-free pancake batter, showing a smooth, thick consistency.
  7. Prepare the Skillet & Rest the Batter: Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add a teaspoon or so of vegetable oil to the pan and allow it to heat up. Critically, let your pancake batter rest for about 5-10 minutes while the skillet comes to temperature. This resting period allows the baking powder and baking soda to fully activate, creating more air bubbles and resulting in significantly fluffier pancakes. Ensure the pan is properly preheated before proceeding.
  8. Cook the Pancakes: Once the skillet is evenly hot (a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate), scoop about 1/4 cup of pancake batter per pancake into the skillet. Depending on the size of your pan, you can typically cook three pancakes at a time. Let the pancakes cook undisturbed for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when small bubbles begin to appear on the surface, the edges look set, and the bottoms are a beautiful golden brown.
  9. Several gluten-free pancakes cooking evenly in a hot skillet, with small bubbles forming on their surface.
  10. Flip and Finish Cooking: With a thin-set spatula, carefully flip the pancakes over. Allow them to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the second side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through in the center. Avoid pressing down on the pancakes with your spatula, as this can flatten them and reduce their fluffiness.
  11. Serve and Enjoy: Gently transfer the perfectly cooked pancakes to a plate. Continue cooking the remaining batter, adding a little more oil to the pan if needed. Serve your hot, fluffy gluten-free pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings and a generous drizzle of maple syrup!
  12. A close-up of a fork taking a bite out of a stack of fluffy gluten-free pancakes, revealing their airy interior.

Exciting Variations and Delicious Toppings for Your Gluten-Free Pancakes

One of the most enjoyable aspects of making pancakes is customizing them with a variety of toppings and mix-ins! This Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free pancake recipe serves as an excellent base for endless creative variations. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your pancake game:

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Pancakes: For a delightful treat, scoop your pancake batter into the skillet as usual. Immediately after, gently drop a handful of your favorite gluten-free chocolate chips onto the surface of each pancake. Use your finger or the back of a spoon to lightly press the chocolate chips into the batter. This crucial step prevents them from burning when you flip the pancake, ensuring they melt beautifully into the fluffy interior.
  • Gluten-Free Blueberry Pancakes: Embrace the classic taste of blueberry pancakes! For the best results, I highly recommend using fresh blueberries. While frozen blueberries can be tempting for convenience, they tend to release more liquid as they thaw and cook, which can weigh down your delicate pancakes and make them less fluffy. Gently fold fresh blueberries into the batter just before cooking, or sprinkle them on top of each pancake in the skillet before flipping.
  • Decadent Topping Ideas: The right toppings can transform your pancakes into a gourmet experience. Experiment with a range of options such as crunchy gluten-free granola, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, additional chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter or almond butter, sweet fruit jam, warm maple syrup (a timeless favorite!), slices of fresh banana, an assortment of mixed berries, rich Nutella, toasted shredded coconut, various chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts), spiced apple butter, or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
  • Creative Mix-ins (Dry Only!): If you prefer to incorporate flavors directly into the batter, stick to dry mix-ins to maintain the perfect wet-to-dry ratio. Excellent choices include colorful sprinkles, chocolate chips (as mentioned above), warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, poppy seeds, shredded coconut, or finely chopped nuts. It’s very important to avoid adding wet ingredients such as pumpkin puree, mashed banana, or sour cream directly into this specific pancake batter. Doing so will significantly alter the delicate balance of wet and dry ingredients, inevitably leading to dense, heavy pancakes that lack the desired fluffiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free Pancakes

Can you prepare this recipe as a gluten-free pancake mix for future use?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic time-saving hack for busy individuals. To create your own homemade gluten-free pancake mix, simply measure out all the dry ingredients (Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) and combine them thoroughly in a round, airtight container. Ensure it’s sealed tightly to maintain freshness. You can store this custom mix in your pantry for several weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy fresh pancakes, just take out your container, add the wet ingredients (milk, egg, and oil) as specified in the recipe, stir until just combined, and follow the cooking directions. It’s an incredibly convenient way to enjoy homemade goodness with minimal effort on demand.

Do gluten-free pancakes genuinely taste good, or do they taste “different”?

The short answer is a resounding yes, these gluten-free pancakes are incredibly delicious and can easily rival their wheat-based counterparts in taste and texture! The secret to truly great gluten-free pancakes lies in two key factors: using a high-quality, reliable gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (like Bob’s Red Mill 1:1, which is formulated to behave like regular flour) and achieving the correct, balanced ratio of wet to dry ingredients. Many people associate “gluten-free” with dry or crumbly textures, but with the right ingredients and technique, you can achieve wonderfully fluffy, moist, and flavorful pancakes. If you try to use a sub-par gluten-free flour blend that has an unpleasant taste or gritty texture, your pancakes will indeed suffer. However, this recipe, with its specific flour recommendation and carefully balanced ingredients, ensures a delightful, satisfying taste experience that will make you forget they’re gluten-free.

Is it possible to freeze homemade gluten-free pancakes for later consumption?

Absolutely, freezing homemade gluten-free pancakes is one of their most convenient features! To ensure the best results, first allow the cooked pancakes to cool completely to room temperature. Stacking warm pancakes can lead to condensation and sogginess. Once fully cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze for about 30 minutes to prevent them from sticking together. Alternatively, you can stack them with small pieces of parchment paper between each pancake. Then, transfer the stack into a large zip-top freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. This method helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, microwave the pancakes one at a time in 20-second increments until they are warm and soft, or pop them into a toaster or oven for a slightly crispier edge.

A hand drizzling golden maple syrup over a stack of warm, fluffy gluten-free pancakes.

Optimized Storing and Reheating Tips for Gluten-Free Pancakes

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious gluten-free pancakes for days to come, whether from the refrigerator or freezer. Follow these tips to keep them fresh and delicious:

  • Refrigeration: Allow any leftover pancakes to cool completely to room temperature before storing them. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. This will keep them fresh and moist in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent them from sticking together, you can place a small piece of parchment paper between each pancake if stacking multiple.
  • Reheating from the Refrigerator: When reheating refrigerated pancakes, it’s best to do so one pancake at a time. Microwave each pancake in 20-second increments until it’s warmed through to your liking. Be cautious not to overheat the pancake, as excessive microwaving can cause it to dry out or become greasy, diminishing its fluffy texture. You can also briefly warm them in a toaster or on a lightly oiled skillet over low heat for a few minutes per side.
  • Freezing for Long-Term Storage: As mentioned in the FAQs, freezing is an excellent option for meal prep. After the pancakes have completely cooled, stack them with parchment paper in between each one to prevent sticking. Place the stack in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months.
  • Reheating from the Freezer: For frozen pancakes, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. Microwave one pancake at a time in 30-second increments, checking for warmth and softness, until heated through (usually 60-90 seconds total, depending on your microwave). Alternatively, you can place them in a toaster on a low setting for a few cycles, or bake them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until warmed.

Expert Tips for Mastering Your Gluten-Free Pancake Making

Achieving the perfect fluffy gluten-free pancakes consistently requires a few key insights. Keep these expert tips in mind to ensure every batch is a success:

  • Crucial Flour Choice: Stick to 1:1 Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: This recipe is specifically formulated and balanced for gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose flour blends, such as Bob’s Red Mill 1:1. It is absolutely vital that you do not substitute single-ingredient alternative flours like almond flour, coconut flour, or oat flour directly. These flours have drastically different absorbency rates, fat content, and protein structures compared to a blended 1:1 gluten-free flour. Using them will throw off the delicate wet-to-dry ratios, resulting in pancakes that will not have the correct consistency, texture, or rise.
  • Adjust Heat if Browning Too Quickly: If you notice the bottoms of your pancakes are browning very rapidly while the insides are still raw, it’s a clear indication that your skillet heat is too high. Immediately turn down the heat to medium-low. Pancakes need to cook gently and evenly to ensure they are cooked through without burning the exterior.
  • Preheat the Pan Thoroughly: Patience is a virtue when it comes to pancakes! Ensure your pan or griddle is completely heated to the correct temperature *before* adding any batter. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the batter will spread too much, resulting in thin, flat pancakes. Conversely, an underheated pan won’t give you that beautiful golden-brown crust. A properly preheated pan ensures the edges set quickly, contributing to a better rise and a perfectly cooked exterior.
  • Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Just like with traditional pancakes, it’s essential not to overmix your gluten-free batter. Stir only until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and actually preferable. Overmixing can develop the starches in the gluten-free flour, leading to tougher, chewier pancakes instead of light, fluffy ones.
  • Resist Pressing Down on Pancakes: Once you’ve flipped your pancakes, avoid the temptation to press down on them with your spatula. This action deflates the air bubbles that contribute to their fluffiness and can result in dense, flat pancakes. Let them cook undisturbed.
  • Keep Cooked Pancakes Warm: As you cook batches of pancakes, you can keep the finished ones warm in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) on a baking sheet while you finish cooking the rest of the batter. This ensures everyone gets to enjoy warm, fresh pancakes together.

More Delicious Gluten-Free Breakfast Recipes to Explore

  • Almond Flour Pancakes [The Best]
  • Gluten Free Pumpkin Pancakes
  • Cassava Flour Pancakes [Paleo & Gluten Free]
  • Paleo Sweet Potato Pancakes
  • Gluten Free Chocolate Pancakes
  • Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
A perfect stack of golden brown gluten-free pancakes, invitingly fluffy.

Fluffy Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Pancakes

Carolyn

These incredibly fluffy, perfectly golden, and kid-friendly gluten-free pancakes are truly the best you’ll ever make! Crafted with Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour, they are easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Make a double batch and freeze them for quick, hassle-free breakfasts on busy weekday mornings.

4.70 from 10 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Course Breakfast
Cuisine American

Servings 6 pancakes
Calories 209 kcal

Equipment

  • Large nonstick skillet or griddle
  • Thin set rubber spatula
  • Mixing bowls (one large, one small for wet ingredients)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk

Ingredients

  

  • 1 cup + 2 tablespoons Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1:1 All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • pinch of salt
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • additional vegetable oil for pan

Instructions

 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly, then set aside.
  • In a liquid measuring cup, combine the whole milk, large egg, and vegetable oil. Stir them together until well blended.
  • Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a whisk or spatula until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. Set aside to rest.
  • Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add a teaspoon or so of additional vegetable oil to the pan.
  • Allow the batter to sit for 5-10 minutes as the skillet comes up to temperature. The pan must be thoroughly preheated before you begin cooking the pancakes for best results.
  • Once the pan is hot, scoop approximately 1/4 cup of batter per pancake into the skillet. Let the pancakes cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until small bubbles appear on the surface and the bottoms are a lovely golden brown.
  • Using a thin spatula, carefully flip the pancakes over. Cook for a few more minutes on the second side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove them from the pan. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil if necessary.
  • Serve your fluffy gluten-free pancakes immediately with a generous drizzle of maple syrup and any other desired toppings!

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 312mgPotassium: 51mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 89IUCalcium: 114mgIron: 1mg

Keyword bob’s red mill gluten free pancakes, gluten free pancake mix, gluten free pancake recipe, gluten free pancakes, fluffy gluten-free pancakes, easy gluten-free breakfast
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