Name: Homemade Pancake Mix
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons shortening*

This homemade pancake mix is so easy to make and will be a pantry staple! Only 4 simple ingredients; flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening!

Pancake mix inside clear container with white lid ajar

Have you ever reached into the pantry for your Bisquick/ favorite dry pancake mix only to realize the box is empty and you are left in a panic?

I definitely have. A few months ago, you know… Back when no one wanted to leave their house… we realized we were out and I had already promised a breakfast of pancakes. A quick search of the pantry and I decided to test out this substitute. I mean, it is nothing like my buttermilk pancake recipe, but it sure gets the job done and is a winner in my 11 year olds book.

After some slight adjustments, this has become my go-to homemade Bisquick substitute. It is just so easy and I always have the ingredients on hand. AND you can make more than just pancakes! We have used it for biscuits, waffles, and more!

Top down shot of pancake mix in a clear container with a spoon

So, now that I have your attention, I am sure you are asking the question…

What ingredients are in this dry pancake mix recipe?

The answer is actually very simple. This recipe calls for four base ingredients; all-purpose flour (although I have made it with bread flour in a pinch), baking powder, salt, and shortening.

It also takes less than five minutes to whip up and will last in your pantry for up to 3 months if stored properly. I like to use these OXO containers (sort of obsessed with these and have everything stored in one) because they have a tight seal and keep things fresh.

You can also substitute the shortening for butter or oil IF you opt for this method, please be sure to keep the mix stored in your refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Clear container filled with dry pancake mix and labeled with pink paper

How do you make Bisquick from scratch?

This is a very basic beginner recipe. Meaning it will take you all of 5 minutes to put together! You also get 8 servings, which for our tiny family of three is a lot. If you need more, you can easily double or even triple!

Measure the flour in a dry measuring cup. Be sure to spoon the flour in and scrape the top for an even measurement. Place in a sifter or fine mesh strainer (my favorite) over a medium sized mixing bowl.
Measure the baking powder and salt and place directly on top of the flour.
Sift into the bowl. This should give you a light and fluffy mixture.
Add the shortening. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the shortening into the mix until it resembles fine crumbs.
Transfer to an air tight container and store until ready to use.

cooked pancakes on a serving tray with pancake mix in a clear container next to the plate

How to make pancakes from dry mix:

Combine 1 cup of your dry mix with 1/2 cup of milk and 1 large egg.
Whisk to combine.
Pour 1/4 cup of your batter onto a preheated grill.
Cook until bubbles start to form on the top of your pancake batter and the edges slightly curl.
Flip and continue to cook about 1 minute more or until golden brown.

pancake mix in clear air tight container labeled with pink tag

Tips for this recipe: Be sure to use fresh ingredients. Since baking powder is the only rising agent, it needs to be newer. This is what helps give your pancakes that beautiful fluff. That is another reason why it is so important to store this in an air tight container to keep it fresh.

5 from 1 vote