PERFECT PANCAKES

Make this pancake batter ahead of time, and store it in the refrigerator so it’s ready to pour on the griddle first thing in the morning. You can also cook the pancakes, let them cool, and freeze them. That way it’s easy for little hands to pop them in the toaster to heat up for a special breakfast.

2 cups all-purpose flour

1¾ teaspoons baking powder

⅓ cup sugar

½ teaspoon coarse salt

3 large eggs, separated

1½ cups whole milk

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus

1 teaspoon for cooking

½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Fresh fruit (optional)

Maple syrup

Makes approximately 18 pancakes

1. Sift the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt into a large bowl.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, 6 tablespoons butter, and vanilla until combined. Whisk the yolk mixture into the flour mixture until just combined. The batter will be slightly lumpy.

3. Place the egg whites in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, and whisk until medium peaks form. Mix half the egg whites into the batter with a rubber spatula. Gently fold in the remaining whites. The egg whites should not be fully incorporated into the batter. Store the batter in the refrigerator in an airtight container until ready to use, or use it immediately.

4. To cook the pancakes, heat a griddle until hot, about 350 to 375 degrees. Add the remaining butter to the hot griddle. Add ¼ cup of the pancake batter, and let it set. When bubbles begin to form, lift the pancake; if it’s golden brown, turn it over. Cook until golden brown on the remaining side.

5. Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate, and keep it warm. Repeat the process with the remaining batter. Garnish with fresh fruit, and serve warm with maple syrup.

MAKE IT AHEAD: Make this batter up to a day in advance, and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. You can also freeze the cooked pancakes by letting them cool completely and placing them in individual freezer bags in the freezer. To cook the frozen pancakes, place them in a toaster until warmed through.