Making fluffy pancakes is an easy and enjoyable process! Follow these steps:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg, then add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually 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 pancakes dense.
4. Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to grease the surface.
5. Cook the Pancakes: Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until you see bubbles forming on the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Repeat: Continue with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as needed between batches.
8. Serve Warm: Stack the pancakes on a plate and cover them with a clean kitchen towel while you finish cooking the rest.