If you’re craving something cozy and absolutely delicious, you’re going to want to try my Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe. These pancakes are everything I adore about fall in breakfast form—soft, fluffy, and bursting with that perfect blend of cinnamon, ginger, and allspice. Trust me, once you make these, your weekends will have a whole new level of comfort and joy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Pumpkin Flavor: The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtly sweet pumpkin punch without overpowering.
- Perfect Warm Spices: A careful blend of cinnamon, ginger, and allspice makes these pancakes feel like a warm hug.
- Fluffy Yet Hearty: These aren’t your thin crepes—expect fluffy stacks that hold up beautifully under syrup and butter.
- Simple To Make: The recipe is straightforward, so even if pancakes aren’t your usual jam, you’ll nail it with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe are pretty much staples if you love baking or pumpkin everything. Pumpkin puree adds a great texture and moisture, while the mix of warm spices creates that signature cozy flavor you want to wake up to. Grab fresh spices if you can—they make all the difference!
- Whole milk: Provides tenderness and richness to the batter; full-fat works best for creamy pancakes.
- Pumpkin puree: Use canned or homemade—just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Large eggs: Helps bind ingredients and adds structure to keep pancakes fluffy.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Melt before mixing for smooth batter and that buttery flavor in every bite.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash amps up the sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the pancakes; measure accurately for the perfect texture.
- Baking powder: Your leavening agent to make those pancakes rise fluffy and light.
- Baking soda: Works with acidic elements like pumpkin to lighten the batter.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness without overwhelming.
- Sea salt: Balances the sweet and spicy flavors for a perfect taste profile.
- Ground allspice: One of those warming spices that gives pumpkin dishes their depth.
- Ground cinnamon: No fall recipe is complete without it—adds warmth and sweetness.
- Ground ginger: Adds a gentle spicy kick that livens up the stack.
- Salted butter (for cooking and serving): Helps the pancakes brown nicely and tastes amazing melted on top.
- Maple syrup: The classic pancake partner that you won’t want to miss.
Variations
I love how versatile pumpkin pancakes can be, and this Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe invites all kinds of tweaks. Sometimes I throw in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch. Other times, I swap out the milk for a plant-based option to keep it dairy-free. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Nutty Twist: Adding toasted pecans inside the batter gives a lovely texture contrast and deepens the flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond or oat milk and coconut oil instead of butter; it works surprisingly well!
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit more heat, a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or cloves can elevate the warm spices.
- Sweet Add-Ins: Chocolate chips or dried cranberries folded into the batter turn these pancakes into a real treat.
How to Make Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Start by whisking together the milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. I like to do this part first because it helps the pumpkin blend beautifully with the liquids and creates a smooth base for the dry ingredients. Make sure your melted butter isn’t too hot, or it might scramble the eggs—lukewarm is perfect.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients Separately
In another medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, allspice, cinnamon, and ground ginger. I like to whisk these together first to distribute the spices evenly. This step is key because you don’t want pockets of baking powder or sugar sneaking through the batter—this keeps every bite consistent.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently whisk until just combined. Don’t overmix here – it’s tempting to stir until perfectly smooth, but a few lumps are okay and actually help keep your pancakes tender and fluffy. Overworking the batter leads to tough pancakes, and trust me, I learned that the hard way!
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a griddle or large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Once it’s melted and slightly foamy, use a ¼ cup measuring cup to scoop the batter onto the griddle, leaving about 3 inches between pancakes so they don’t merge. You’ll see small bubbles forming on the surface after around 2–3 minutes—that’s your cue to flip them gently. Cook the other side for about 2 minutes until golden brown. Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning—I’ve found medium heat is just right for cooking through without charring.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once your stacks are cooked, serve immediately with a pat of butter and plenty of real maple syrup. I can’t stress enough how the warm spices and buttery melt create that perfect balance with the syrup. If you’re making a big batch, keep pancakes warm in a single layer on a baking sheet in a low 200°F oven while you finish up the rest.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: They mix more smoothly with other wet ingredients, preventing clumps.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined to maintain fluffy texture; lumps are totally okay.
- Control Your Heat: Medium heat works best; too hot burns the outside while leaving the inside underdone.
- Keep Pancakes Warm: Use a low oven to hold cooked pancakes without drying them out or making them soggy.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe
Garnishes
I always pile my pancakes high with a pat or two of salted butter so it melts right over the warm stack. A drizzle of good-quality maple syrup is a must, but I also love sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or a few fresh cranberries on top for extra texture and a pop of color. Sometimes a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt feels indulgent, especially on chilly mornings.
Side Dishes
These pancakes pair beautifully with crispy bacon or sausage if you enjoy something savory alongside. I also like a side of roasted spiced apples or a simple fresh fruit salad to balance the warm spices with some brightness. For an extra cozy meal, a cup of chai tea or rich coffee rounds everything out perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve made mini pumpkin pancakes stacked with layers of mascarpone and drizzled with caramel sauce. They’re perfect for brunch guests and look picture-perfect on a wooden board with cinnamon sticks for garnish. Another fun idea is to serve them skewered on sticks dipped in melted chocolate—it’s playful and delightful for kids and adults alike!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pumpkin pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2 days. I like to separate each pancake with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to eat, they’re just as comforting as fresh once reheated.
Freezing
Freezing is a lifesaver! Lay cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They keep great up to a month. When you want a quick breakfast, just pop a few in the toaster or microwave, and you’re good to go.
Reheating
Reheating in a toaster oven or skillet works best to restore crisp edges and warm the pancakes evenly. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen to keep texture; if you do microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, flipping halfway through for the best results.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! You’ll want to roast fresh pumpkin chunks until tender, then puree them until smooth. Keep in mind homemade puree is usually a bit thicker and may require slightly adjusting liquid amounts in the recipe. I recommend sourcing sugar pumpkins for the best flavor.
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How can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Some blends work better than others—look for one with xanthan gum included for the best texture. You might need to add a teaspoon more baking powder for fluffiness.
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Can I prepare the batter the night before?
You sure can! Store the batter covered in the fridge overnight. When ready, stir gently (it may thicken a bit) and cook straight from the fridge. This is a great way to save morning time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
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What else can I serve with these pumpkin pancakes?
Besides classic maple syrup and butter, try powdered sugar dusting, whipped cream, nuts, or fresh fruits like sliced bananas or berries. For savory sides, breakfast sausage or bacon complements the spices wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe fills my kitchen with those comforting scents that make you smile first thing in the morning. It’s a recipe that feels special yet is straightforward enough to whip up any day of the week. If you’re looking to treat yourself or impress family with a cozy breakfast, these pancakes will not disappoint. Give them a try—I promise your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Pumpkin Pancakes with Warm Spices Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Pancakes are a delightful twist on classic pancakes, infused with warm spices and rich pumpkin puree. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, they feature a tender texture and a beautifully balanced flavor profile enhanced with cinnamon, allspice, and ginger. Serve them warm with butter and maple syrup for a comforting seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1½ teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
For Cooking and Serving
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, plus more for serving
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, sea salt, ground allspice, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger to ensure even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
- Combine Batter: Slowly pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, whisking gently until just combined. Be careful not to over mix to keep the pancakes tender and fluffy.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of salted butter and allow it to melt, coating the surface evenly.
- Cook Pancakes: Using a ¼ cup measure, scoop the batter onto the griddle, spacing the pancakes about 3 inches apart. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until small bubbles appear on the surface. Flip each pancake and continue cooking for another 2 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat and Serve: Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter and salted butter. Serve pancakes warm topped with extra butter and maple syrup for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- For fluffier pancakes, avoid over mixing the batter; small lumps are okay.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for best flavor or canned pumpkin puree labeled ‘100% pumpkin.’
- Adjust the spices to taste; add more cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F) if cooking in batches.
- These pancakes freeze well; reheat in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg