Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes are the kind of breakfast that can transform an ordinary morning into a cozy, festive experience. Each fluffy, warmly spiced bite is pure autumn on a plate, and they’re just as perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch as for a cheerful weekday treat. There’s something special about how the pumpkin, spices, and a hint of sweetness come together—and even better, you don’t need to be a culinary whiz to master them! Let’s walk through everything you need to make them the star of your next breakfast spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With a handful of pantry staples and an extra dose of pumpkin, you’re only minutes away from pumpkin pancake bliss. Every ingredient balances flavor and texture, making these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes uniquely irresistible.

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your pancakes, giving them that tender yet sturdy bite.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle caramel richness that perfectly complements the pumpkin and spices.
• Baking Powder: A key lift for super-fluffy pancakes you can’t resist stacking high.
• Baking Soda: Works with the other leaveners to keep each pancake light and tender.
• Salt: Don’t skip this—it brightens up every other flavor in the mix.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: The aromatic blend that makes these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes unforgettable. If you don’t have it, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves will do the trick.
• Milk: Use your favorite dairy or non-dairy option for smooth, pourable batter.
• Pumpkin Purée: The star ingredient for that rich color, silky texture, and classic fall flavor. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• Egg: Binds everything together for pancakes that flip easily and stay moist.
• Melted Butter: Infuses each bite with buttery goodness and helps prevent sticking when cooking.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors with mellow, sweet depth.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, bring together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and that glorious pumpkin pie spice. Give everything a good whisk to evenly distribute the flavors. This step sets the stage for perfectly balanced Pumpkin Spice Pancakes.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the milk, pumpkin purée, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. The pumpkin purée makes the batter thick and silky—you’ll see the deep orange color that signals cozy flavors ahead!

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Grab a spoon or spatula and gently stir it together just until combined. Don’t aim for a perfectly smooth batter—a few lumps are totally fine here and help keep those Pumpkin Spice Pancakes tender.

Step 4: Preheat and Pour

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium and add a little more butter. Once hot, pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. As they cook, you’ll see lovely golden edges forming—your kitchen will smell like a fall bakery!

Step 5: Flip and Finish

Watch for bubbles on the surface and set edges (usually after 2–3 minutes). Slide a spatula underneath, flip, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until both sides are golden brown. Keep the finished pancakes warm under a clean towel as you work through the rest of the batter.

Step 6: Time to Serve

Stack your Pumpkin Spice Pancakes as high as you dare and go wild with toppings! Maple syrup is a must, and a swirl of whipped cream or a sprinkle of candied pecans takes them totally over the top.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

Garnishes

Let’s have a little fun with garnishes. A generous pour of warm maple syrup is a classic, but these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes also shine with a dollop of vanilla whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Try butter melting on top or a dusting of powdered sugar for a café-style finish.

Side Dishes

These pancakes can easily be the star of a brunch menu. Pair them with crispy bacon or turkey sausage for a savory balance. You can also serve fresh fruit on the side—think sliced apples or pears—to round out the meal and add a juicy contrast to the spiced stack.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, try making a pancake “cake” by layering Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with thin spreads of cream cheese frosting in between. For mini stacks, use smaller dollops of batter and serve with tiny pitchers of syrup. Or get the kids involved and let them garnish their own with fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Extra Pumpkin Spice Pancakes keep beautifully in the fridge. Let them cool completely, then layer with parchment or wax paper in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days—perfect for quick weekday breakfasts.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange completely cooled pancakes on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag or container, separating layers with paper so they don’t stick. These pancakes freeze well for up to two months, and you can grab just what you need on busy mornings!

Reheating

Reheat Pumpkin Spice Pancakes straight from the fridge or freezer. The microwave works in a pinch, but if you want that freshly-cooked texture, pop them in a toaster or warm them in a low oven. They emerge warm, fluffy, and ready for your favorite toppings.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Pancakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend (make sure it includes xanthan gum or a binder). The rest of the ingredients work perfectly, and you’ll enjoy all that pumpkin spice goodness without the gluten.

Can I use homemade pumpkin purée instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure your homemade pumpkin purée is smooth and not watery. If it’s too loose, let it drain in a fine sieve for a few minutes before adding it to your batter—this keeps your pancakes from getting soggy.

What’s the best milk to use?

Both dairy and non-dairy milks work great! Regular milk gives a classic richness, while almond, oat, or soy milk make these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes totally dairy-free and just as delicious.

Can I prep the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine right before cooking. This way, your leaveners stay active and your pancakes fluff up perfectly. You can mix both parts ahead and store in the fridge overnight—just stir together in the morning.

How do I know when to flip the pancakes?

Keep an eye out for bubbles forming on the pancake’s surface and edges looking a bit dry. That’s your cue to flip! Use a gentle, swift motion for the perfect, golden result.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to bring warmth and a little festive joy to your breakfast routine, these Pumpkin Spice Pancakes truly deliver. They’re easier than you think and always leave the kitchen smelling incredible. Whip up a batch and see just how quickly they become a favorite in your home!

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