In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Take a deep sniff — the sweetness is already whispering, “You’re about to make something amazing.”

In another bowl, combine milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and dreamy. I literally danced a little here because the smell of vanilla makes everything better.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix — lumpy is good! Those little lumps give pancakes their tender, fluffy personality.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a tiny pat of butter or a drizzle of oil. Once hot, it’s pancake time.

Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip carefully. Golden brown on both sides = success. Repeat until all batter is gone.

Stack your pancakes high, add your favorite toppings, and maybe drizzle some syrup with flair. Sit down, take a bite, and feel that “Whoa, I made this?! Yes girl, yes you did.” moment.