Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe – Fluffy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Fall
1. Introduction
When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing quite like a stack of Pumpkin Spice Pancakes to make your morning feel extra cozy. These pancakes are the perfect blend of warm spices and pumpkin flavor, making them a true fall favorite. With the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of pumpkin, these pancakes are not just a breakfast – they’re a celebration of the season.
The best part? These Pumpkin Spice Pancakes are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re preparing them for a leisurely weekend breakfast, a fall brunch, or a special holiday morning, this recipe will give you light, fluffy, and flavorful pancakes every time. And, of course, you can always customize them to suit your taste, making them the perfect addition to any breakfast spread.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the simple process of making these pumpkin spice pancakes, share tips for perfecting them, and suggest delicious variations to make them your own. Let’s get started on this fall-inspired recipe!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
To create these delicious Pumpkin Spice Pancakes, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll use and some tips for customization:
For the Pancakes:
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for these pancakes. It provides structure and helps create a fluffy texture. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier pancake or use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder: Baking powder helps the pancakes rise and gives them that light, airy texture. Be sure to use fresh baking powder for the best results.
- Cinnamon: The star spice of this recipe! Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the pancakes, enhancing the pumpkin flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on how much spice you like.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg complements the cinnamon perfectly, giving the pancakes a cozy, fall flavor. A pinch of nutmeg goes a long way, so be sure not to overdo it.
- Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and bring out the flavors of the spices.
- Pumpkin Puree: The key ingredient that gives these pancakes their signature flavor and color. Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices. You can also make your own homemade pumpkin puree if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture to the pancakes, helping them hold together while remaining tender.
- Milk: Whole milk adds richness to the batter, giving the pancakes their soft, fluffy texture. If you prefer a dairy-free version, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are great substitutes.
- Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the pancakes. You can substitute with vegetable oil if you prefer, though butter adds a deliciously comforting taste. You can also use dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s a small addition but makes a big difference in the overall taste of the pancakes.
- Maple Syrup: Though optional, maple syrup adds a perfect touch of sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin and spices. You can also use honey or agave syrup if preferred.
Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk or oat milk and dairy-free butter to make this recipe dairy-free.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Pumpkin Spice Pancakes is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps for perfect pancakes every time!
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, giving the pancakes a uniform flavor and texture. - Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until smooth. The pumpkin puree should be well incorporated into the mixture. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in dense pancakes. It’s okay if there are a few lumps – the batter should be thick but pourable. - Heat the Griddle or Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil. To test if the pan is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface – if they sizzle, the pan is hot and ready for the batter. - Cook the Pancakes
Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pour the batter onto the hot pan for each pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, or until small bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges begin to look set. Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown on both sides. - Serve the Pancakes
Remove the pancakes from the pan and place them on a warm plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter. Serve the pancakes warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, and any toppings you like!
4. Tips and Variations
Here are some expert tips and variations to make these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes even better:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense pancakes, so a few lumps are okay.
- Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re a fan of chocolate, add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a fun, sweet twist.
- Make It Vegan: To make these pancakes vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set aside for 5 minutes) and use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
- Make It Extra Fluffy: For extra fluffy pancakes, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and gently fold them into the batter at the end. This will make your pancakes lighter and airier.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have cinnamon and nutmeg on hand, you can substitute with pumpkin pie spice. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice to get that classic fall flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions
While these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes are delicious on their own, here are some ideas for what to serve alongside them:
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup is the perfect topping for these pancakes, adding just the right amount of sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Top your pancakes with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
- Candied Pecans or Walnuts: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle candied pecans or walnuts on top of the pancakes.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit like banana slices, berries, or even a handful of pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness and color.
- Bacon or Sausage: For a more savory pairing, serve the pancakes with crispy bacon or sausage links. The salty contrast to the sweet pancakes makes for a satisfying breakfast.
- Chai Tea or Coffee: These pancakes pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or coffee, complementing the spices in the pancakes.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: If you have leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a skillet over low heat until warm.
- Freezer: You can also freeze these pancakes for up to 1 month. Place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between each pancake to prevent them from sticking together. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or toaster for a quick breakfast.
- Reheating: If you’re reheating frozen pancakes, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead: You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before cooking the pancakes in the morning.
- Best with Freshly Grated Nutmeg: For the best flavor, freshly grate your nutmeg instead of using pre-ground nutmeg. Freshly grated nutmeg has a stronger, more vibrant flavor.
- Use a 6-Inch Pan for Perfect Pancakes: For the perfect size pancakes, use a 6-inch skillet. This ensures each pancake cooks evenly and doesn’t get too large or too small.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 180 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbs | 25g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Calcium | 80mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Whisk dry ingredients together.
- Mix wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Cook pancakes on a heated griddle or skillet.
- Serve with toppings of choice.
Notes:
- Can be prepped ahead.
- Best with freshly grated nutmeg.
Nutrition:
Calories: 180 | Fat: 7g | Protein: 4g | Carbs: 25g
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Vegetarian
- Dairy-Free (with substitutions)
- Gluten-Free (with substitutions)
🌿 Health Benefits
- Rich in fiber and vitamin A from pumpkin
- High in protein from eggs
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, canned pumpkin works perfectly. Just be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
2. Can I make these pancakes without eggs?
Yes! You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or applesauce as an egg substitute.
3. Can I freeze leftover pancakes?
Absolutely! Let the pancakes cool completely, then store them in the freezer with parchment paper between them for easy separation. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
4. How can I make these pancakes fluffier?
For fluffier pancakes, make sure you don’t overmix the batter. Lumps are okay! Also, using a little extra baking powder can help achieve more rise.
10. Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Spice Pancakes are the perfect way to celebrate the fall season. With their comforting flavors and light, fluffy texture, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy weekend treat, these pancakes are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Let me know how they turn out for you in the comments below! Enjoy!