Wild Blueberry Pancakes
Maine is the wild blueberry capital of the world, and these pancakes showcase the tiny, intensely flavored berries that grow in the state's barrens. Unlike cultivated blueberries, wild Maine blueberries are small but pack twice the antioxidants and an unmatchable sweet-tart flavor.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center.
Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine: Pour wet ingredients into the well of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined - some lumps are fine. Overmixing makes tough pancakes.
Fold in the blueberries: Gently fold in the wild Maine blueberries. If using frozen berries, add them frozen to prevent bleeding into the batter.
Rest the batter: Let batter rest for 5 minutes while you heat the griddle. This allows the gluten to relax and baking powder to start working.
Heat the griddle: Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter. Test with a drop of water - it should sizzle and evaporate.
Cook the pancakes: Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook 1-2 minutes more until golden.
Keep warm: Transfer cooked pancakes to a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while cooking remaining batches. This keeps them warm without getting soggy.
Stack and serve: Stack 3-4 pancakes on each plate. Top with a pat of butter, scatter extra wild blueberries on top, and drizzle generously with warm Maine maple syrup.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Wild vs. cultivated: Wild Maine blueberries are smaller, more intensely flavored, and have twice the antioxidants of regular blueberries. They're worth seeking out.
- Frozen wild berries: Wild Maine blueberries are available frozen year-round at most grocery stores. Wyman's brand is from Maine. Don't thaw before using.
- Blue streaks are fine: Wild blueberries will create some purple streaks in your pancakes. This is normal and shows you're using the real deal.
- Buttermilk matters: Real buttermilk creates the tangy flavor and tender texture. In a pinch, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to regular milk.
- Maine maple syrup: New England produces excellent maple syrup. Grade A dark or very dark amber has the most robust flavor.
- Blueberry harvest: Wild Maine blueberry season runs late July through August. Visit the barrens during this time for the freshest berries.