I’ll never forget the morning I first attempted Kylie Jenner’s viral pancake recipe. My kitchen looked like a flour bomb had exploded, but the results? Absolutely worth it. These aren’t just any pancakes—they’re fluffy, decadent clouds of happiness that have taken social media by storm for good reason.
Kylie Jenner’s pancakes have become somewhat legendary online. What makes them special isn’t just their celebrity association, but the unique technique and ingredient ratios that create that perfect balance between fluffy interior and slightly crisp edges. The secret lies in the combination of both baking powder and baking soda, plus a touch of vanilla that elevates the entire experience.
1. Ingredients & Substitutions
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1¼ cups buttermilk (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, blueberries, or sliced bananas
The flour forms the structure of your pancakes, and while all-purpose works perfectly, you could substitute cake flour for an even lighter texture. I’ve tryed using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, though you’ll need to add about 2 extra tablespoons of buttermilk to compensate for its thirstier nature.
No buttermilk in your fridge? No problem! Mix 1¼ cups of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes, and voilà—homemade buttermilk. For dairy-free options, almond milk with a splash of apple cider vinegar works suprisingly well.
The melted butter contributes to that beautiful golden exterior, but you can swap it for coconut oil if you’re after a subtle tropical note. And don’t skip the vanilla—it’s what gives these pancakes their characteristic Kylie flavor.
2. Step-By-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Batter
Start by whisking together your dry ingredients in a large bowl—the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these first ensures even distribution and prevents those awful pockets of baking soda that can ruin a perfect bite.
In a separate bowl, whisk your wet ingredients until smooth: buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. The temperature matters here—cold ingredients won’t combine properly and can make your melted butter resolidify into little chunks.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk just until combined. This is crucial: over-mixing develops gluten, which will make your pancakes tough instead of tender. You want to stir until the large lumps disappear, but small lumps are actually your friend! Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes—this allows the flour to fully hydrate and the leavening agents to start working their magic.
Cooking the Perfect Pancake
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Too hot and your pancakes will burn before cooking through; too cool and they’ll be pale and soggy. To test if it’s ready, flick a few drops of water onto the surface—they should dance and evaporate within seconds.
Add a small pat of butter or a light swipe of oil to the pan. Kylie reportedly uses a mixture of butter and oil—the butter for flavor and the oil to prevent burning. For each pancake, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface.
If you’re adding mix-ins like chocolate chips (Kylie’s favorite), now’s the time to sprinkle them directly onto the uncooked side. Wait for bubbles to form on the surface and for the edges to look set and slightly dry—this takes about 2-3 minutes. Flip with confidence using a thin spatula, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
The biggest mistake people make is pressing down on their pancakes after flipping. Don’t do it! This squeezes out the air pockets that create that perfect fluffiness. Transfer finished pancakes to a wire rack rather than stacking them on a plate—this prevents them from getting soggy from trapped steam.
3. Cooking Techniques & Science
What makes Kylie’s pancakes so special is the dual action of both baking powder and baking soda. Baking powder creates bubbles when it gets wet, while baking soda reacts with the acidic buttermilk for additional lift. Together, they create that characteristic fluffy texture that’s become Kylie’s signature.
The resting period for the batter isn’t just for show—it serves an important purpose. During those 5-10 minutes, the flour absorbs moisture, which dissolves sugar and salt, developing flavor while the gluten relaxes. At the same time, the leavening agents start producing carbon dioxide bubbles that get trapped in the thickening batter.
Temperature control is everything when cooking pancakes. Your pan should be around 375°F (190°C)—if you have an infrared thermometer, this is when it comes in handy. Without one, watch for that butter to foam without browning too quickly. If you’re making a large batch, keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a wire rack, which allows air circulation and prevents sogginess.
Kylie often uses a non-stick griddle which provides even heat distribution and allows for cooking multiple pancakes at once. The wide, flat surface makes flipping easier, especially important for those picture-perfect social media shots she’s known for.
4. Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Kylie typically serves her pancakes with a generous drizzle of maple syrup (the real stuff, not pancake syrup) and a pat of butter on top. Sometimes she adds fresh berries or sliced bananas for a pop of color and freshness. For special occasions, a dusting of powdered sugar adds that perfect finishing touch.
For a truly indulgent Kylie-inspired presentation, try stacking 3-4 pancakes high, with a small pat of butter between each layer. This allows the butter to melt evenly throughout the stack, creating pockets of richness in every bite.
These pancakes pair beautifully with a variety of morning beverages. A strong cold brew coffee with a splash of vanilla creamer complements the sweet notes in the pancakes. For something non-caffeinated, try a freshly squeezed orange juice or, if you’re feeling fancy, a mimosa for weekend brunch.
For a complete Kardashian-worthy spread, serve these pancakes alongside crispy bacon or turkey bacon, scrambled eggs with chives, and fresh fruit. The combination of sweet and savory elements creates a balanced meal that’s sure to impress.
The Kylie Touch
What truly makes these “Kylie” pancakes is the attention to detail. She’s known for taking classic recipes and elevating them with small but significant touches. The vanilla extract is non-negotiable, and using room temperature ingredients makes a noticeable difference in texture.
Kylie also emphasizes consistency in pancake size. Using a measuring cup or ice cream scoop ensures uniform pancakes that cook evenly and look beautiful when plated. This might seem fussy, but it’s these little details that transform good pancakes into great ones.
While Kylie hasn’t revealed all her secrets, fans have noticed she often adds a sprinkle of cinnamon to her batter for warmth and complexity. Some speculate she may also use a touch of almond extract alongside the vanilla for an elevated flavor profile that keeps people guessing.
Conclusion
Making Kylie Jenner’s pancakes is less about following a celebrity trend and more about mastering the art of a truly exceptional breakfast staple. The combination of quality ingredients, careful technique, and those special little touches results in pancakes that are genuinely worth the hype.
Remember the key takeaways: don’t overmix your batter, let it rest before cooking, maintain the right cooking temperature, and resist the urge to flatten your pancakes after flipping. These simple principles will lead to fluffy, golden pancakes worthy of your own social media moment.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a lazy Sunday or hosting a glamorous brunch for friends, these pancakes deliver both comfort and style—exactly what the Kylie Jenner brand is all about. So go ahead, channel your inner influencer, and elevate your breakfast game with these cloud-like creations.
FAQs
Can I make the pancake batter the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The pancakes might actually be even fluffier, as the resting time allows the flour to fully hydrate. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of buttermilk in the morning if the batter has thickened too much overnight.
Why are my pancakes not fluffy like Kylie’s?
Several factors could be at play: overmixing the batter, not letting it rest, using cold ingredients, or having an inactive leavening agent. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh—they lose potency over time. Also, check that your cooking temperature isn’t too low, as this prevents proper rising.
How do I get that perfect golden color that Kylie achieves?
The secret to that Instagram-worthy golden color is a combination of sugar in the batter (which caramelizes during cooking) and the right pan temperature. Using a combination of butter and oil in the pan helps achieve the perfect color without burning. Also, make sure your pan is properly preheated before adding the batter.
Can I freeze these pancakes for later?
Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between each pancake. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or microwave when ready to enjoy.
What’s the best way to serve these for a brunch party like the Kardashians would?
For a Kardashian-worthy brunch, create a pancake bar! Serve the pancakes on a warmed platter, alongside various toppings in elegant small bowls: fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, whipped cream, different flavored syrups, and compound butters. Add some edible flowers for decoration, and don’t forget to have your phone ready to capture the perfect shot!
Veronica is a passionate food enthusiast with over three years of experience in exploring and writing about diverse cuisines. Her expertise lies in reviewing restaurants, sharing creative recipes, and discovering the latest food trends. As the voice behind FoodieRecap.com, Anju brings fresh perspectives and culinary insights to her audience.
