**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Butter or oil for cooking
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Batter:**
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract (if using).
2. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Stir gently until just combined. It's okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can make the pancakes tough.
3. **Cooking the Pancakes:**
- Heat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Spread it slightly with the back of a spoon if needed.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Flip and Cook:**
- Carefully flip the pancake with a spatula and cook until the second side is golden brown, about 1-2 minutes more.
5. **Serve:**
- Serve the pancakes warm with butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, or any other toppings you like.
Enjoy your fluffy pancakes!
