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Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes

Best Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes Recipe

The secret to these pancakes lies in the fresh lemon juice and zest, which add a burst of flavor, and the poppy seeds, which provide a delightful texture. These simple yet special ingredients transform everyday pancakes into something truly memorable.

  • Total Time: 25 min
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
    • In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: buttermilk, egg, melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
    • Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
  3. Heat the Griddle or Skillet
    • Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
  4. Cook the Pancakes
    • Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, another 1-2 minutes.
  5. Serve Warm
    • Stack the pancakes on a plate, add your favorite toppings, and serve immediately.

Notes

Dietary Adjustments

  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Vegan: Substitute buttermilk with a mixture of plant-based milk and a tablespoon of vinegar. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg, and coconut oil instead of butter.
  • Low Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Ingredient Swaps

  • Poppy Seed Alternative: Chia seeds can be used for a similar texture.
  • Citrus Options: Try orange zest and juice for a sweeter citrus profile.
  • Author: Adam RM
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min