Separate the eggs and place the whites in a clean bowl. Keep the yolks in another bowl.
Whisk the yolks with milk and vanilla until smooth.
Sift the flour and baking powder into the yolk mixture and stir gently until just combined.
Beat the egg whites until foamy, then gradually add sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Fold the meringue into the yolk batter in three additions, keeping as much air in as possible.
Preheat a nonstick pan over the lowest heat and lightly oil it.
Scoop tall mounds of batter onto the pan using a spoon or piping bag. Add a teaspoon of water around the pancakes and cover with a lid.
Steam-cook for 6–7 minutes, then gently flip and steam the other side for another 5–6 minutes until golden and jiggly.
Serve warm with butter, syrup, berries, or whipped cream—whatever makes you happy.