Name: Pumpkin Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 tsp Baking Powder; 3/4 tsp Baking Soda; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 3/4 tsp Ground Ginger; 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg; 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves; 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree; 1 1/2 cups Buttermilk; 3 Tbsp Butter (melted); 2 large Eggs; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

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There’s something special about waking up to the aroma of freshly made Pumpkin Pancakes wafting through the house. It reminds me of cozy autumn mornings spent with family, gathered around the breakfast table. The golden-brown pancakes, fluffy and warm, are perfect for drizzling with maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, I often find myself in the kitchen, whipping up a batch of these delightful pancakes. They are not just a treat for breakfast; they can easily transition into a comforting brunch or even a festive dessert. The addition of pumpkin puree gives them a rich flavor and gorgeous color that’s simply irresistible. I love how versatile they can be, too—perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a special holiday feast. Plus, everyone seems to enjoy them, making them a crowd-pleaser in our home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
225 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Food Processor, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

What Sets This Pumpkin Pancakes Apart

They’re Perfect for Fall

As the weather cools down, there’s nothing more inviting than the taste of fall flavors. These Pumpkin Pancakes bring the essence of autumn right to your plate. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg combined with the sweetness of pumpkin create a dish that’s perfect for those chilly mornings.

Easy to Make

You don’t have to be an expert in the kitchen to whip up these delicious pancakes. The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. You can have them on the table in no time, making them a great choice for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.

Endless Customization

Another reason I adore these pancakes is the flexibility they offer. Feel free to add in chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of granola for extra texture. You can also adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, making each batch unique.

Great for Special Occasions

Whether it’s Thanksgiving morning or a festive family gathering, these Pumpkin Pancakes are sure to impress your guests. They can easily be served alongside your favorite breakfast sides, creating a beautiful spread that everyone will love.

Healthy and Satisfying

Made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and buttermilk, these pancakes are not just delicious but also provide nutritional benefits. The pumpkin adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a satisfying choice to start your day.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they store beautifully in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat them in the toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast option throughout the week.

Shopping List for Pumpkin Pancakes

When it comes to making Pumpkin Pancakes, the ingredients are simple yet essential for achieving that delicious flavor and fluffy texture. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect pancake. The key players in this recipe include pumpkin puree, which provides rich moisture, and a blend of spices that give these pancakes their signature taste.

All-Purpose Flour – 1 3/4 cups (248g): This is the base of the pancakes, providing structure and fluffiness when combined with the other ingredients.
Baking Powder – 2 tsp: A leavening agent that helps the pancakes rise, making them light and fluffy.
Baking Soda – 3/4 tsp: This acts in conjunction with the buttermilk to create a wonderfully soft texture.
Salt – 1/2 tsp: Enhances the overall flavor of the pancakes.
Ground Cinnamon – 1 1/2 tsp: Adds warmth and spice, giving the pancakes that comforting fall flavor.
Ground Ginger – 3/4 tsp: Provides a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Ground Nutmeg – 1/4 tsp: A classic spice that brings depth and richness to the flavor.
Ground Cloves – 1/4 tsp: Offers a unique aromatic flavor that perfectly balances the other spices.
Light Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup (55g): Adds sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall texture of the pancakes.
Pumpkin Puree – 1 cup (245g): The star ingredient that not only adds flavor but also provides moisture and nutrients.
Buttermilk – 1 1/2 cups (350ml): Contributes to the pancakes’ fluffiness and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
Butter – 3 Tbsp (42g), melted: Adds richness and flavor. More cold butter is needed for greasing the griddle.
Large Eggs – 2: Help bind the ingredients together and add richness.
Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp: Adds a nice depth of flavor that complements the spices and pumpkin.

How to Make Pumpkin Pancakes

Making Pumpkin Pancakes is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and aromas that evoke the essence of fall. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious stack of pancakes that will become a family favorite.

Preheat a non-stick electric griddle to 375 degrees. This temperature is ideal for achieving that golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside fluffy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Make a large well in the center of the mixture and set aside. This well will hold the wet ingredients later, ensuring everything combines smoothly.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, buttermilk, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
Pour the pumpkin mixture into the well in the dry mixture. Whisk gently just until combined. The key is to keep the batter slightly lumpy; over-mixing can lead to flat pancakes. Let the batter rest for 3 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid and improve the pancake’s texture.
Butter the griddle with some cold butter before pouring the batter. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter for each pancake onto the griddle. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to spread the batter outward slightly. This helps create evenly shaped pancakes.
Cook the pancakes until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set.
Flip the pancakes and cook the opposite side until golden, about 2 to 3 minutes longer. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, adjusting the heat as necessary.
Remove the pancakes from the griddle and repeat the process until all of the batter has been used. You can keep the finished pancakes warm in a 200-degree oven if you need to make multiple batches.
Serve warm with butter and maple syrup or your favorite toppings. Enjoy every bite of these fluffy, flavorful pancakes!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing your batter can lead to tough pancakes. Aim for a slightly lumpy texture for the best results.
Resting the Batter: Let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to hydrate, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
Temperature Matters: Cooking at the right temperature is crucial. Too high can burn the pancakes, while too low will leave them soggy.
Griddle Tips: Make sure the griddle is well greased with butter before pouring in the batter for an easy release.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To get the most out of your Pumpkin Pancakes, here are some handy tips and tweaks that can elevate your pancake game:

Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster or microwave before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the pancakes for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Pairing: These pancakes pair wonderfully with crispy bacon, fresh fruit, or a dollop of yogurt.
Variations: Experiment with different spices or add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a twist.
Serving Style: Serve the pancakes stacked high with a drizzle of maple syrup, and sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra gourmet touch.
Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar level in the batter according to your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar.
Fluffy Pancakes: For extra fluffy pancakes, separate the egg whites from the yolks, beat the whites to soft peaks, and fold them into the batter just before cooking.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pancakes

Serving Pumpkin Pancakes is just as important as making them! Here are some delicious ideas on how to enjoy these festive treats:

Breakfast Delight: Serve pancakes hot off the griddle as a delightful breakfast option paired with fresh fruits like bananas or strawberries.
Brunch Favorite: They’re perfect for brunch gatherings, making your table look inviting and festive with their vibrant color and aroma.
Snack Time: Enjoy them as a snack throughout the day—great for kids and adults alike, especially when served with a side of warm maple syrup.
Holiday Treat: During Thanksgiving, serve these pancakes alongside your traditional meals for a fun twist that guests will appreciate.
Creative Toppings: Top them with seasonal toppings such as whipped cream, pecans, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge or freezer as mentioned, then reheat before serving for a quick meal.
Spiced Whipped Cream: For an elegant touch, make spiced whipped cream by adding a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg to your whipped cream for serving.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before using, as some settling may occur. Alternatively, you can make the pancakes ahead of time, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave when ready to serve!

Pumpkin Pancakes can be served with a variety of delicious toppings. Traditional accompaniments include warm maple syrup, butter, and whipped cream. For a seasonal twist, consider adding spiced apple compote or a sprinkle of chopped pecans. Fresh fruits like bananas or berries also make great pairings!

Yes, you can customize the Pumpkin Pancakes by substituting some ingredients. If you want a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend. You can also replace buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor. However, be aware that changing ingredients may affect the texture and flavor slightly.

To prevent sticking, ensure your griddle is adequately preheated, and use enough butter or oil to grease the surface. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray for an easy release. If your pancakes are still sticking, it may be a sign that you need to adjust the heat – too hot can cause sticking.

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Pancakes recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their fluffy texture and warm spices, they offer comfort and satisfaction in every bite. I encourage you to try making them soon; they’ll surely become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire!