HOT CAKES:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tbsp. sugar
1 1/2 tbsp. corn starch
1/2 tsp. salt (or less)
1 egg, beaten
3/4 cup milk (or a little more for thinner pancake)
2 tbsp. cooking oil (I prefer canola)

In one mixing bowl, mix first five ingredients. Mix thoroughly.

In separate mixing bowl, beat egg, add milk and shortening. Mix well.

Add dry ingredients and stir in gently just to dampen the flour mixture - do not overbeat. If necessary, add a little more milk to make batter thinner.

Drop by spoonfuls onto hot griddle. Flip once when bottom side is lightly brown and top is side bubbly.

HOMEMADE MAPLE SYRUP:

2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1 tsp. maple flavoring (Adams Extract is best)

Bring water and sugar to a boil and boil one minute. Add maple flavoring and stir. Serve over pancakes while hot.

Submitted by: Charles Haynes