The Secret to Perfect Camp Pancakes: Beer

Weight-conscious backpackers may eschew them, but the fact remains: pancakes are the ultimate classic camp breakfast. Part of that is how easy they are to make. But like many things that are seemingly simple, mastering the art of pancake-making is surprisingly difficult. Our experts share a from-scratch recipe that produces perfect flapjacks every time. —The Editors

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 12-ounce can of beer (mild lagers are best)
• 1/4 cup canola oil

At Home

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a zip-top bag.

In Camp

Place dry ingredients in a medium-size bowl; mix in beer and oil. Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium flame. To make one pancake, spoon three tablespoons of batter onto skillet; cook two to three minutes per side until browned. Note: Substitute root beer for a non-alcoholic breakfast.

Prep time: 5 min

Cook time: 6 min

Price: $.53 per serving

Weight: 8 ounces per serving

Serves 3

Calories 547
Fat 19 g
Carbs 74 g
Protein 9 g

Originally published 2018; last updated March 2022