Combine. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 3 teaspoons baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Stir in 1 1/3 cups milk, 5 Tablespoons butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla with a wooden spoon just until most of the lumps are gone. Add 1 to 2 Tablespoons milk, if needed (you don't want the batter too thick).
Preheat a griddle or skillet to medium-low (about 260°F).
Make pancakes. Coat the griddle with a good amount of butter. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, pour batter onto the heated griddle. Cook for 2 minutes, or until bubbles appear. Flip the pancakes and cook the other side for 1 minute, or just until lightly browned. Add more butter to the skillet when cooking the next batch and repeat.
Serve. Serve immediately or keep pancakes warm on a baking sheet in the oven at 175°F.
Notes
Homemade pancake mix: Place dry ingredients in a large jar until ready to use. Will stay fresh and sealed for up to 6 months. Freeze for up to 1 year.Egg: If you prefer a studier pancake, whisk in 1 egg with the milk. Store: Cool pancakes completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Layer parchment between pancakes to prevent sticking. Reheat in the microwave or toaster until warm.Quantity: This recipe makes about 50 mini 2-inch pancakes.