How to Make the Perfect Pancake

Martha makes perfect pancakes. No. 29 of "30 Things Everyone Should Know."

Best Buttermilk Pancakes

Preheat electric griddle to 375 degrees. Whisk flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Add egg yolks, buttermilk, and 4 tablespoons butter; whisk to combine. Batter should have small to medium lumps; fold in egg whites.
Heat oven to 175 degrees. Test griddle by sprinkling a few drops of water on it. If water bounces and spatters off griddle, it is hot enough. Use a pastry brush to spread remaining 1/2 teaspoon of butter on griddle. Wipe off excess.
Use a 2-ounce ladle, about 1/4 cup, and pour batter in pools two inches apart. When pancakes bubble on top and are slightly dry around edges, about 2 1/2 minutes, flip. Cook until golden on bottom, about 1 1/2 minutes.
Place on plate in preheated oven until ready to serve.