As the leaves begin to change and children’s laughter fills the air, I can’t help but be transported back to my childhood. Each autumn, my grandmother and I would gather around her kitchen island, surrounded by warm spices and the scent of butter melting in a skillet. It was during these cherished moments that we would create our beloved pumpkin spice pancakes, a recipe passed down through generations and imbued with memories of cozy breakfasts and family gatherings.
This dish is more than just a breakfast; it’s a celebration of the season. The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger harmonize together, evoking the essence of fall. These pancakes are fluffy, warm, and incredibly delicious, bringing comfort to any morning table. Whether you’re enjoying them on a crisp Saturday morning or surprising your loved ones on a special occasion, these pumpkin spice pancakes are sure to become a staple in your home. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to fill your kitchen with the spirit of autumn!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fluffy and Delicious: Achieve perfect pancakes every time!
- Seasonal Flavors: Captures the essence of fall with pumpkin and spices.
- Kid-Approved: A fun breakfast that kids will love.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal clean-up required!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (or dairy alternative)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for the skillet)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Combine Mixtures
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; small lumps are okay!
4. Heat the Skillet
- Over medium heat, melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet.
5. Cook the Pancakes
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve
- Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup or whipped cream.
Tips & Variations
- Add-Ins: Try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flair.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these pancakes suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Spice Up Your Life: Feel free to experiment with the spices! A pinch of clove or cardamom can elevate your pancake experience.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag; store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Heat pancakes in a microwave or toaster oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories (serving size: 2 pancakes)
- Servings: 4 (8 pancakes total)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked and pureed fresh pumpkin, but canned pumpkin provides a consistent taste and texture.
2. What can I use instead of eggs?
You can replace the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let sit for 5 minutes).
3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it’s best to cook pancakes fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately and mix them when you’re ready to cook.
4. How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking?
Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and place a baking sheet inside. Keep the cooked pancakes warm by stacking them on the baking sheet in the oven.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair these delicious pancakes with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve alongside crispy bacon or fresh fruit to balance the flavors.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy and comfort in making these pumpkin spice pancakes just as my grandmother and I did so many years ago. Each flip of the pancake is a step closer to creating sweet memories with your loved ones. I invite you to share your own variations, tips, or memories in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear how these pancakes have brightened your mornings! Happy cooking!