One Homemade Pantry Mix. Endless Breakfast Possibilities.
I've been making my own pancake and waffle mix for many years.
Like most of my favourite recipes, it has evolved over time. Every now and then I'd tweak an ingredient, adjust a ratio, or test another batch, always chasing the fluffiest pancakes and the crispiest waffles.
This morning, after making yet another small adjustment, my son took one bite, looked up at me, and said,
"These are the best pancakes you've ever made."
That was all the confirmation I needed.
The recipe is finally ready to share.
I honestly can't remember the last time I bought a boxed pancake mix. Making your own is just as convenient, costs less, and lets you control every ingredient that goes into it.
There are no preservatives, artificial flavours, or unnecessary additives—just simple pantry staples that you probably already have in your kitchen.
I make one large batch and keep it in an airtight container so breakfast is only a few minutes away. Most of the measuring is already done, which makes busy mornings feel effortless.
Whether we're making pancakes on a quiet Saturday morning, crispy waffles for brunch, or using fresh berries from the garden in the middle of summer, this mix has become one of the most-used staples in our pantry.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Better than boxed.
- Simple pantry ingredients.
- No preservatives or unnecessary additives.
- Less expensive than store-bought mixes.
- Make one batch and enjoy breakfast for weeks.
- Makes fluffy pancakes and crispy waffles.
- Easy to customize with seasonal ingredients.
Better-Than-Boxed Pancake & Waffle Mix
Ingredients
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 3 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
Whisk together until evenly combined.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months.
Want at-a-glance refill and recipe instructions? Use my pre-made labels below!
Fluffy Pancakes
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pancake Mix
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
- 1 tsp vanilla (optional)
Instructions
Whisk the wet ingredients together.
Add the mix and stir just until combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking on a lightly greased skillet over medium heat.
Crispy Waffles
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pancake Mix
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil
- 1 tsp vanilla (optional)
Instructions
Whisk together and cook in a preheated waffle iron until golden brown and crisp.
Seasonal Pancake Ideas
One of my favourite things about this mix is how easily it changes with the seasons.
Spring
- Rhubarb Compote
- Strawberry Rhubarb
- Lemon Poppy Seed
Summer
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Peaches
- Cherries
Autumn
- Apples
- Pears
- Pumpkin Spice
- Cinnamon
- Maple
Winter
- Cranberry Orange
- Gingerbread
- Chocolate Chip
- Banana Walnut
More Ways to Use This Mix
This mix is much more versatile than pancakes and waffles.
Try it for:
- Sheet Pan Pancakes
- Dutch Baby Pancakes
- Mini Pancakes
- Pancake Muffins
- Apple Pancakes
- Banana Pancakes
- Blueberry Pancakes
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Favourite Toppings
Fresh fruit is almost always my first choice.
Some of our favourites include:
- Fresh berries
- Sliced peaches
- Apples sautéed with cinnamon
- Warm maple syrup
- Homemade berry compote
- Whipped cream
- Toasted pecans
- Yogurt
- Nut butter
- Honey
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the mix keep?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 6 months.
Can I freeze the mix?
Yes! Freeze it in an airtight container for up to one year.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Why should I let the batter rest?
Resting the batter gives the flour time to hydrate and the baking powder time to activate, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
Can I use this mix for waffles?
Absolutely! Simply add an extra egg and a little more butter or oil to create crisp, golden waffles.
If You Make It...
I'd love to know how you enjoy yours. Whether you top them with fresh summer berries, warm cinnamon apples, or plenty of maple syrup, leave a comment below or tag me on social media so I can see your breakfast creations.
Happy cooking!
Coming Soon
If you enjoy this Better-Than-Boxed Pancake & Waffle Mix, be sure to check out the rest of the collection, including my Better-Than-Boxed Cake Mix and Better-Than-Boxed Muffin Mix. Together, they're the pantry staples I reach for again and again and have been refining for years.