Homemade Whole Wheat and Flax Pancakes

Don't they just look like a bright, sunny, Sunday morning?

Pancakes are typically thought of as one of the "unhealthy" breakfasts. Not these! Forget the boxed mixes--you don't need them. Here's how you can whip up a surprisingly simple, super fluffy and healthy batch of pancakes this weekend. They're great when you're looking for something a little different for breakfast. You'll find them on my meal plans too!

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup ground flax seed (if you don't have flax, try this recipe instead)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Dash of salt
• 1 egg (or 2 egg whites)
• 1 cup skim milk (if you use egg whites, use 1 1/4 cups milk)
• Canola oil for the pan or griddle

Optional:

• Fruit (I love fresh or frozen blueberries), in the mix or for topping
• Walnut pieces, in the mix or for topping
• Syrup, honey or molasses, lightly drizzled on top
• Butter or margarine, on top

Instructions
Mix dry ingredients in a large a bowl. In a smaller bowl, whisk together wet ingredients, then pour into large bowl to combine with the flour mixture. Stir ingredients together, just until moistened. If you want to add nuts or fruit, do it now. Don't over-mix.

Heat a pan or griddle to medium heat--I prefer a cast iron skillet if you have one. Pour a drop of oil (about 1 teaspoon) into the pan and allow to heat. Spread it around by using a paper towel. Using this technique, you can evenly coat the entire pan by using minimal oil. Use 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour the pancake batter. When the batter begins to bubble, flip them over. Each side will only take 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and serve. Repeat process, including spreading the oil again with the towel, until your batter is gone.

Makes 10-12 pancakes, 4-inches each.

Try them tomorrow! Here's another tip: prepare extra so that you have leftovers. Then you'll have a special treat for breakfast during the work week.

Try the recipe and let me know what you think! Will you forget the boxed mixes from now on?