Mix the dry ingredients by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
Combine the wet ingredients by whisking together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined.
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter.
Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake, cook until bubbles form and edges begin to set (about 2–3 minutes), then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Stack the pancakes and serve with syrup, honey, fresh fruit, or other toppings.