
Sign up to the GoodTo Newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information about how to do this, and how we hold your data, please see our privacy policy
Thank you for signing up to . You will receive a verification email shortly.
There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.
Make this basic batter with just a few store cupboard ingredients and in three simple steps.
This basic batter recipe can be used in several sweet and savory dishes, from pancakes and fritters to Yorkshire pudding and toad-in-the-hole. We've tried and tested this recipe to guarantee a smooth, lump-free batter every time. The trick is to sieve the flour thoroughly and to add the milk gradually whisking with a balloon whisk for the perfect silky texture.
Ingredients
- 100g plain flour
- 1 large egg
- 300ml milk
WEIGHT CONVERTER
Method
- To make this simple batter recipe, start by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl and make a well in the center. Drop the egg into the well and beat with a balloon whisk, gradually drawing some of the flour into the mixture.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking all the time, and continuing to draw in the flour until you have a smooth batter. It should be the consistency of single cream.
- Cover the bowl and leave the batter to stand in a cool place for about 30 mins – this allows the starch grains in the flour to soften and give a lighter batter. If after standing, the batter has thickened too much add a splash of milk to thin it down.
Watch how to make batter
Top tips for making batter
To achieve a smooth, lump-free mixture, it’s essential to slowly draw the flour into the liquid – if you beat everything together in one go, some of the flour will remain in tiny lumps suspended in the mix.
The quantity of milk in this recipe makes a pourable batter, so to make it thicker, use about 150ml of milk. You can flavour it with citrus zest, chopped herbs, or a little mustard for savoury dishes. When making it for Yorkshire puddings (opens in new tab), add an extra egg yolk and replace half the milk with water. This will give you extra rich and crispy results every time.
You might also like…
Classic pancake recipe (opens in new tab)
Banana fritters (opens in new tab)
Toad in the hole (opens in new tab)

Jessica Dady is Senior Content Editor at Goodto.com and has over 10 years of experience as a digital journalist, specialising in all things food, recipes, and SEO. From the best food hampers to cookbooks, from the best cake stands to baking sets, Jessica has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to must-have food products. A passionate baker, she spends much of her time creating celebration cakes for friends and family - particularly for her two lucky children.
-
Easy pancakes
An easy, delicious pancake recipe that takes just 10 minutes to make - the perfect weekend treat or Pancake Day go-to...
By Jessica Dady • Published
-
Lemon pancakes
These delicious lemon meringue pancakes combine crunchy meringues mixed in with tangy lemon, sweet cream and tasty pancakes for an indulgent breakfast or delicious dessert idea.
By Charlotte Gunn • Published
-
Lace pancakes
Make like the Bake Off contestants and make these fabulous lace pancakes for dessert tonight - everyone will be impressed at their intricacy
By Octavia Lillywhite • Published
-
The Hummingbird Bakery vanilla cupcakes
These Hummingbird Bakery vanilla cupcakes are topped with candy-coloured vanilla frosting and sprinkles...
By Jessica Dady • Published
-
Roasted spatchcock chicken
Roasted spatchcock chicken is quicker and easier than your usual roast bird. It's ideal for cooking on the BBQ...
By Jessica Dady • Published
-
Black Forest gateau
Our Black Forest gateau has a rich, luxurious chocolate sponge sandwiched with freshly whipped cream and topped with sweet cherries...
By Jessica Dady • Published
-
The Queen’s dinner table rule means this everyday essential isn’t ‘allowed’ for her royal relatives
The Queen reportedly prefers a more 'formal' approach to mealtimes and prioritises traditional etiquette with her nearest and nearest...
By Emma Shacklock • Published
-
Pizza Hut is launching a roast dinner pizza and food fans are torn
By Naomi Jamieson • Published
-
The Revlon Blow Dry Brush the internet lost its mind over is so cheap for Amazon Prime Day
The best-selling Revlon Blow Dry Brush that went viral online has been price slashed
By Caitlin Elliott • Published