To avoid making a mess of your morning pancakes when trying to flip them in the pan as they cook, skip flipping the pancake itself and flip the pan, instead.

Simply let your pancakes cook until bubbles begin to form, then slide your spatula beneath the pancake and lift it. With your other hand, firmly grip the handle of your skillet.

Turn the skillet handle over the pancake and gently tip them both over, so the raw side of the pancake is now against the surface of the pan, and place it back on the burner.

You can also use this trick with a nonstick pan so long as you prime the pan well. Just be sure to heat the pan thoroughly and lightly brush it with some butter or oil.