How To Make Pancakes Like Denny S

How To Make Pancakes Like Denny’s: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you’ve ever walked into a Denny’s diner and watched the servers slide a golden, fluffy stack onto your plate, you’ve probably wondered what makes those pancakes so perfectly airy. The secret isn’t magic – it’s a combination of the right ingredients, a gentle mixing technique, and a hot, evenly‑heated griddle. Below you’ll find a complete, restaurant‑style pancake recipe that mimics Denny’s classic buttermilk stack, plus tips from professional chef Frank Proto and the cooking duo Julia Collin Davison and Bridget Lancaster.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients (Makes 8‑10 Pancakes)

• 1 ½ cups all‑purpose flour
• 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1  tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 ¼ cups cold buttermilk (or 1 ¼ cups milk + 1  tablespoon lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes)
• 1  large egg, lightly beaten
• 3  tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Cooking oil or additional butter for the griddle

Equipment

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Whisk or fork
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Non‑stick griddle or heavy‑bottomed skillet (6‑8 inches wide)
5. Spatula

Preparation: The Chef‑Approved Method

Professional chef and instructor Frank Proto emphasizes that the key to fluffy pancakes is “minimal handling.” Over‑mixing creates gluten, which makes the batter tough and the pancakes dense. Follow these steps for a light, airy result.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. The leavening agents should be evenly distributed to ensure uniform rise.

2. Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the cold buttermilk, beaten egg, melted butter