"Instant" Pancakes

This is Alton Brown's recipe for what he calls "Instant" Pancakes. There is more work than just pouring from a bottle or just adding water, but the payoff is worth it. The best pancakes we have ever had, hands down. The recipe allows for you to make your own pancake mix that will keep in a sealed container for around 3 months and then make the batter in the proportion you need.

Ingredients

Pancake Mix:

12 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking soda (check expiration date first)
6 teaspoons baking powder
2 tablespoon kosher salt
4 tablespoons sugar

Ingredients for the Pancakes (this makes between 20 and 24 three to four inch pancakes - you can adjust the proportions pretty easily):

4 eggs, separated
4 cups buttermilk
8 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups "Instant" Pancake Mix, recipe above (add a little more for thicker pancakes).
1/4 stick butter, for greasing the pan
2 cups fresh fruit such as blueberries, if desired - or mini chocolate chips

Cooking Directions

Heat an electric griddle or frying pan to 350 degrees F.

Whisk together the egg whites, the buttermilk and vanilla in a small bowl. Temper the egg yolks with the melted butter in another bowl, then whisk the egg yolks with the melted butter.

Combine the buttermilk mixture with the egg yolk mixture in a large mixing bowl and whisk together until thoroughly combined. Pour the liquid ingredients on top of the pancake mix. Using a whisk, mix the batter just enough to bring it together. Don't try to work all the lumps out.

Check to see that the griddle is hot by placing a few drops of water onto to the griddle. The griddle is ready if the water dances across the surface.

Lightly butter the griddle. Wipe off thoroughly with a paper towel. (No butter should be visible.)

Gently ladle the pancake batter onto the griddle and sprinkle on fruit if desired. When bubbles begin to set around the edges of the pancake and the griddle-side of the cake is golden, gently flip the pancakes. Continue to cook 2 to 3 minutes or until the pancake is set.

Serve immediately or remove to a towel-lined baking sheet and cover with a towel. Hold in a warm place for 20 to 30 minutes.