Why You’ll Love this Homemade Pancake & Waffle Mix
If you’re tired of buying those expensive boxes of pancake mix at the grocery store, I’ve got a solution that’ll change your breakfast game forever. This homemade pancake and waffle mix costs a fraction of store-bought versions while delivering superior flavor. No more mystery ingredients or preservatives, just simple pantry staples you can pronounce.
What’s not to love? It takes just minutes to throw together and keeps for months in an airtight container. Plus, the versatility is amazing—use it for classic pancakes, Belgian waffles, or even as a base for savory dinner versions. The recipe makes enough for several breakfasts, saving you time on those hectic mornings when measuring multiple ingredients seems impossible.
Ready to upgrade your breakfast routine without breaking the bank?
What Ingredients are in Homemade Pancake & Waffle Mix?
Making your own pancake and waffle mix at home is super simple, and it’s a game-changer for busy mornings. Instead of reaching for store-bought mixes that might contain preservatives or ingredients you can’t pronounce, you can whip up a batch of homemade mix in minutes and store it for whenever the craving strikes. This basic recipe creates a versatile dry mix that you’ll keep coming back to time and again.
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons baking powder
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups instant nonfat dry milk powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
When you’re ready to actually make the pancakes or waffles, you’ll also need a few wet ingredients not stored in the mix: 1 cup of water, 1 beaten egg, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for every 1½ cups of the dry mix.
The beauty of homemade mix is how customizable it can be. Want whole wheat pancakes? Substitute some whole wheat flour. Prefer less sugar? Adjust to your taste. Keep in mind that the dry ingredients should be thoroughly combined and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The mix should last for several months, making it perfect for those mornings when you need breakfast in a hurry but still want something made with love.
How to Make this Homemade Pancake & Waffle Mix
Making your own pancake and waffle mix at home is surprisingly simple and so much more economical than those store-bought versions. Start by combining 6 cups of all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons of baking powder, and 6 tablespoons of sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 cups of instant nonfat dry milk powder and 1 tablespoon of salt, then whisk everything together until thoroughly combined. This dry mix can be stored in an airtight container for up to three months—perfect for those mornings when you need breakfast in a hurry but don’t want to measure out individual ingredients.
When you’re ready to cook up some pancakes or waffles, simply measure out 1½ cups of your homemade mix into a bowl. Add 1 cup of water, 1 beaten egg, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, then beat the batter until smooth. You might notice a few lumps, but that’s totally fine—overmixing can actually make your pancakes tough rather than fluffy.
Heat up your skillet or griddle to medium-high heat, give it a light coating of butter or cooking spray, and pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. For waffles, just pour the batter into your preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For restaurant-quality Belgian waffles with deep pockets that hold more toppings, consider investing in a Belgian waffle maker professional that creates the authentic thick, crispy texture.
Homemade Pancake & Waffle Mix Substitutions and Variations
While your basic pancake and waffle mix is delicious on its own, customizing it with substitutions and variations can transform your breakfast from good to absolutely spectacular.
I’m a firm believer in making this recipe your own. Try swapping whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose, or use almond milk powder instead of nonfat dry milk for a nutty twist. Feeling adventurous? Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla powder directly to the dry mix.
When preparing the batter, you can fold in fresh blueberries, chocolate chips, or banana slices. For a savory version, I’d mix in herbs and grated cheese. And who doesn’t love adding a splash of buttermilk in place of regular water? Makes the pancakes so tender, you might shed a tear.
What to Serve with Homemade Pancake & Waffle Mix
The perfect homemade pancake or waffle deserves equally delicious companions on your breakfast plate. I’m talking about those little extras that transform an ordinary breakfast into something worth lingering over.
Fresh fruit is my go-to topping—sliced strawberries, blueberries, or caramelized bananas add natural sweetness and a pop of color. Beyond maple syrup (though who can resist?), consider warmed fruit compotes, honey butter, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
For a complete breakfast spread, crispy bacon or sausage links provide that savory contrast we all crave. A side of scrambled eggs adds protein, while a small fruit salad brings freshness to balance the richness. Can’t forget coffee—preferably in a mug the size of my face.
Final Thoughts
After spending time with this homemade pancake and waffle mix recipe, I’ve become convinced that nothing beats the satisfaction of reaching into your pantry for a jar of your own custom blend. There’s something genuinely empowering about controlling exactly what goes into your breakfast basics—no preservatives, no mysterious ingredients, just simple, quality components.
I can’t help but imagine how you might customize this mix to suit your family’s preferences. Perhaps a dash of cinnamon? Maybe some vanilla powder? The possibilities are endless.
Beyond the practical benefits of saving money and space, it’s the little morning ritual that matters. Mixing up a batch of pancakes from your homemade blend, the gentle sizzle on the griddle—it’s these small culinary moments that make home cooking worthwhile.