📖 Instructions

1. Begin by gathering all of your ingredients and equipment. This ensures a smoother cooking process and avoids any last-minute scrambles.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined to prevent clumps in your batter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Ensuring these wet ingredients are properly combined will result in a consistent pancake batter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. It's okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can lead to tough pancakes. Remember, a little lumpiness is your friend!
5. If you're using sprinkles or food coloring, now is the time to add them to the batter. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
6. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. A good test is to flick a few drops of water onto the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it's ready.
7. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. If you're using cookie cutters, place them on the griddle and pour the batter inside. This is where the fun begins!
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip when bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look set.
9. Remove the pancakes from the griddle and place them on a serving plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the pancakes as you go.
10. Decorate the pancake stack with your favorite toppings. Consider whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate syrup, or more sprinkles. Get creative and make it festive!
11. Insert birthday candles into the top of the pancake stack. Light the candles and present the pancake birthday cake with a smile. Let the birthday celebrant make a wish and blow out the candles!