Thickening an overly watery pancake batter without adding more flour requires some creativity. Here are a few alternative methods to achieve the desired consistency:
Mashed Banana: Adding mashed ripe banana can help thicken the batter while also adding some natural sweetness to your pancakes. The banana's binding properties and creamy texture work well for this purpose.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Incorporating a spoonful or two of Greek yogurt or sour cream can add thickness and richness to the batter. Make sure to whisk it well to avoid lumps.
Cottage Cheese or Ricotta Cheese: Blending cottage cheese or ricotta cheese can give your batter a thicker consistency and provide a pleasant texture to your pancakes.
Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can serve as a binder and add moisture while helping to thicken the batter. It's an especially good option for fruit-flavored pancakes.
Ground Flaxseeds or Chia Seeds: Mix some ground flaxseeds or chia seeds with water and let it sit for a few minutes to form a gel-like substance. Then, incorporate it into the pancake batter for added thickness and nutritional benefits.
Egg: Adding an extra egg (or just the egg white) can improve the batter's consistency and provide a fluffier texture to your pancakes.
Cornstarch: Although it's not flour, cornstarch is a thickening agent that can be used sparingly to thicken pancake batter. Be cautious not to overdo it, as it can alter the taste and texture.
Powdered Milk: Mixing some powdered milk into the batter can add thickness without the need for more flour. It also contributes to the overall flavor.
Remember that when adding any of these ingredients, start with small amounts and adjust according to your desired consistency. Additionally, be mindful of the flavor profile of your chosen thickening agent and how it complements the overall taste of your pancakes.