Everyone loves a good stack of fluffy pancakes, but not everyone has time to make them from scratch every morning. That’s where this homemade hotcake mix recipe comes in—it’s a quick, ready-to-use breakfast mix you can prepare in advance and keep on hand for instant pancake mornings.
This mix creates pancakes that are soft, golden, and perfect for everything from weekday breakfast ideas to weekend brunches. Just add milk (or water), an egg, and a little butter or oil when you’re ready to cook — an easy breakfast recipe that’s light, fluffy, and foolproof.
What Is a Hotcake Mix?
A hotcake mix is a convenient pre-mix of flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt that forms the base for homemade pancakes or waffles. It’s like a box mix but fresher, cheaper, and customizable.
With this homemade hotcake mix recipe, you can make:
- Traditional hotcakes
- Mini pancakes
- Waffles
- Breakfast muffins
It’s versatile, easy to store, and super family-friendly.
Why Make Your Own Hotcake Mix Recipe?
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No preservatives or artificial flavors
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Customizable sweetness and texture
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Cheaper than store-bought mixes
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Make once, enjoy multiple times
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Great for breakfast meal prep or gifting
Homemade hotcake mix also gives you better control over flavor and nutrition, especially if you’re making heart healthy breakfast ideas for family.
Ingredients for Homemade Hotcake Mix
Here’s what you need for the dry mix (makes enough for 2–3 batches of pancakes):
Dry Mix (Hotcake Base):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Optional add-ins for flavor: 1 tsp vanilla powder, cinnamon, or powdered buttermilk
Wet Ingredients (Per Batch of Pancakes):
- 1 cup milk (or water for lighter texture)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or neutral oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
How to Make Hotcakes from Hotcake Mix
Follow this step-by-step guide to go from mix to plate in under 15 minutes.
Step 1: Make the Dry Hotcake Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- Store in an airtight container or jar for up to 2 months in a cool, dry place.
Step 2: Mix the Batter (When Ready to Cook)
To make about 6–8 pancakes, combine:
- 1 cup dry mix
- 1 cup milk (or water)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract
Whisk until just combined — a few lumps are okay! Don’t overmix or your hotcakes may be dense.
Step 3: Cook the Hotcakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
- Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Pro tip: Keep pancakes warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while cooking in batches.
Serving Suggestions for Your Hotcakes
Top your hotcakes with classic or creative flavors:
Classic Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Butter
- Honey
Fruit Lovers:
- Sliced bananas
- Berries
- Apple compote
Decadent Ideas:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate chips
- Peanut butter drizzle
Savory Spin:
- Serve with crispy bacon, eggs, or sausage on the side.
Make-Ahead Tips for Hotcake Mix
Store the Mix:
Keep your dry pancake mix in an airtight jar for up to 8 weeks, or freeze cooked pancakes for quick breakfast meal prep. They reheat beautifully in the toaster or microwave for a fast morning breakfast.
Make and Freeze Pancakes:
- Cook and cool pancakes.
- Stack with parchment paper between layers.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in toaster or microwave.
Gift the Mix:
Layer dry ingredients in a jar, attach a label with wet ingredients and instructions, and decorate with a ribbon for a thoughtful breakfast gift!
Variations of the Hotcake Mix Recipe
Want to switch it up? Here are some ideas:
1. Whole Wheat Hotcake Mix
- Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
2. Buttermilk Hotcake Mix
- Add 3 tbsp powdered buttermilk to dry mix, then use water instead of milk when mixing.
3. Protein-Packed Pancakes
- Mix in 2 tbsp protein powder and use Greek yogurt in place of some milk.
4. Gluten-Free Hotcake Mix
- Use a gluten-free flour blend and increase liquid slightly.
Hotcake Mix Recipe FAQ
Can I double or triple the mix?
Yes! Just scale up all ingredients and store in a large jar or container.
Can I make waffles with this mix?
Yes. Add 1 extra egg and 1 tbsp oil to the batter for waffles.
What’s the difference between hotcakes and pancakes?
In most cases, they’re the same! “Hotcakes” is often used in the US and Asia for thicker, fluffier pancakes.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes! Almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk all work great.
Final Thoughts: The Only Hotcake Mix Recipe You’ll Ever Need
This hotcake mix recipe is your ultimate easy breakfast solution quick to make, budget-friendly, and foolproof. It consistently produces fluffy hotcakes that rival your favorite diner pancakes. Whether you like yours plain, fruity, or chocolatey, this mix lets you create endless variations with minimal effort.
Skip the boxed mix and try this homemade pancake recipe once — you’ll never go back. A true breakfast essential that turns ordinary mornings into something special.
