Poppop’s healthy pancakes are near and dear to my heart. On occasion, Poppop (my grandpa) and Grammy Marilyn would have the whole Bulat family over on the weekend for a big breakfast; Poppop’s pancakes were always served and are a family favorite. I clearly remember Poppop sitting at the head of the table flipping pancakes in the shape of his grandkids initials.

Unlike most pancakes, this pancake is not light and fluffy. It is slightly thicker than a crepe and has more texture and flavor than your typical buttermilk pancake. Since these pancakes are not as thick, allot more pancakes per serving than you normally might. Poppop has always emphasized that allowing time for the batter to rest is a crucial step; the batter can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator. The oats in the batter tend to settle towards the top so make sure to mix the batter occasionally when preparing the pancakes.

While the sweetener in this pancake is honey, try substituting maple syrup or agave for a new twist. Poppop always served these pancakes with pure maple syrup (the real deal) and butter.

Poppop’s (Grandpa Bulat’s) Healthy Pancakes

Serves 4-5 people (depending on the pancake size and how hungry you are for some delectable pancakes)
½ cup whole wheat flour
½ cup yellow corn meal
½ cup oatmeal (regular)
2 ½ tsp. baking powder
¾ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pure vanilla extract
3 T. honey
2 medium sized eggs
1 ¼ cups milk
3 T. oil or melted butter (I use oil)

Directions

Put whole wheat flour, yellow corn meal, oatmeal, baking powder, and salt into a medium sized mixing bowl.

In a separate medium sized mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla, honey, eggs, milk and oil (or melted butter) until well combined. If using melted butter, make sure that the eggs and milk are at room temp so that butter doesn’t solidify.

Add one-third of the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until combined. Slowly add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until combined.

Let the pancake batter stand for at least ten to fifteen minutes to allow the grains to absorb some of the milk. Poppop has always emphasized that this is one of the most important steps.

Heat griddle to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (If using a stove, set the burner to a medium heat setting). Lightly grease the griddle before each batch of cakes.

Do not turn the cakes over until bubbles form on the cakes surface. Serve the pancakes immediately with your desired toppings.