These pancakes are inspired by the kind of breakfast that feels clean, simple, and steady — the kind you make when you want to start the day feeling good instead of weighed down. I started playing around with this recipe after reading about Tom Brady’s plant-forward approach to eating and realizing how few vegan pancakes actually turn out light and satisfying. These are soft, lightly sweet, and easy enough for a weekday morning, but still feel like a proper breakfast.
Table of Contents
I wanted a vegan pancake that didn’t rely on heavy substitutes or complicated ingredients. The goal was something balanced and nourishing, using plant-based staples that cook up fluffy without eggs or dairy. After a few tweaks, this version became a regular in my rotation, especially on mornings when I want something warm but still light.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Completely Vegan: No eggs or dairy needed
- Light and Fluffy: No dense or gummy texture
- Clean Ingredients: Simple pantry staples
- Naturally Sweetened: No refined sugar overload
- Easy to Digest: Gentle on the stomach
- Quick to Make: Perfect for busy mornings
- Customizable: Easy to adjust flavors and toppings
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Room-Temperature Milk: Helps batter mix smoothly
- Don’t Overmix: Keeps pancakes tender
- Let Batter Rest Briefly: Improves texture
- Cook on Medium Heat: Prevents burning
- Flip Once Only: Wait for bubbles to form
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients
- Whisk: Helps create a smooth batter
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters
- Nonstick Skillet or Griddle: Even cooking
- Spatula: Easy flipping
Ingredients in This Recipe
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates structure while staying soft
- Almond Milk: Light, neutral plant-based liquid
- Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness without heaviness
- Baking Powder: Provides lift and fluffiness
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Reacts with baking powder for rise
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and balance
- Coconut Oil or Olive Oil: Keeps pancakes tender
- Sea Salt: Enhances overall flavor
Ingredient Substitutions
- Flour Option: Oat flour or whole wheat pastry flour
- Milk Swap: Oat milk or cashew milk
- Oil Alternative: Avocado oil works well
- Sweetener Swap: Date syrup or agave
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour
Ingredient Spotlight
- Maple Syrup: Adds gentle sweetness while staying plant-based
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps create a light, fluffy texture

Fluffy Vegan Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Combine almond milk, maple syrup, vinegar, oil, and vanilla
- Combine Batter: Gently fold wet ingredients into dry
- Rest Batter: Let sit briefly to activate leavening
- Heat Pan: Warm skillet over medium heat
- Cook Pancakes: Pour batter and cook until bubbles form
- Flip and Finish: Cook until set and lightly golden
- Serve Warm: Stack and top as desired
Notes
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: Batter is best used fresh
- Refrigerate: Store cooked pancakes up to 3 days
- Freeze: Freeze with parchment between layers
- Reheat Gently: Skillet or toaster works best
How to Serve This Dish
- Classic: Fresh fruit and maple syrup
- Protein Boost: Nut butter drizzle
- Fresh Finish: Berries or sliced banana
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Breakfast Sandwich: Add nut butter and fruit
- Mini Pancake Bites: Cut into snack-sized pieces
- Dessert Stack: Layer with coconut yogurt
- On-the-Go Breakfast: Roll with fruit
Additional Tips
- Adjust Thickness: Add milk if batter thickens
- Flavor Boost: Cinnamon or nutmeg works well
- Fresh Toppings Matter: Brighten the plate
Make It a Showstopper
- Neat Stacks: Clean edges and even sizing
- Natural Toppings: Fresh fruit and seeds
- Warm Syrup: Enhances aroma and flavor
Variations to Try
- Banana Vegan Pancakes: Mash banana into batter
- Blueberry Version: Fold in fresh blueberries
- Protein Pancakes: Add plant-based protein powder
- Cinnamon Pancakes: Add ground cinnamon
- Oil-Free Version: Use applesauce instead
FAQ’s
- Are these really fluffy without eggs? Yes, baking powder and vinegar create lift
- Can I make them gluten free? Yes, with 1:1 gluten-free flour
- Do they taste vegan? No, they taste like classic pancakes
- Can I use water instead of milk? Milk gives better texture
- Are these kid friendly? Yes, mild flavors
- Can I add fruit to the batter? Yes, gently fold in
- Do they freeze well? Very well
- What oil is best? Coconut or avocado oil
- Can I reduce the sweetener? Yes, they’re lightly sweet
- How long do leftovers last? Up to 3 days refrigerated

Hi, I’m Olivia Chen-Williams, a professional chef, cooking instructor, and the founder of Turn Around At 50. For nearly three decades, my life has revolved around kitchens. Not the quiet, romantic kind, but the real ones. Hot, loud, demanding, and deeply alive.

