The Best Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes: An Irresistible Fall Breakfast Recipe
Welcome to the cozy world of autumn flavors with these incredible Pumpkin Spice Pancakes! Imagine sinking your teeth into a stack of perfectly tall, wonderfully soft, and unbelievably fluffy pancakes, each bite bursting with the warm, inviting essence of fall. What makes these pancakes truly special is not just the aromatic blend of pumpkin pie spices, but also the generous addition of real pumpkin puree. This magical ingredient ensures every pancake is supremely moist and tender, creating a breakfast experience that feels like a warm hug on a crisp morning.
Get ready to make these your go-to seasonal treat. Once you taste their comforting blend of sweet pumpkin and rich spices, you’ll be craving them all season long. So, make sure your pantry is stocked with pumpkin, because these fluffy pumpkin pancakes are about to become a beloved tradition in your home!
Why These Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Will Become Your Fall Favorite
As someone who proudly wears the “Pancake Queen” crown in a house full of eager eaters, I’ve had my fair share of pancake adventures. From perfecting the classic Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes to mastering delicate Swedish Pancakes and even savory Potato Scallion Pancakes, I’ve explored countless variations. I even have a popular Mason Jar Cranberry Chocolate Chip Pancake mix that my friends and family absolutely adore!
Note: Looking for more pancake inspiration? Be sure to check out my extensive collection of pancake recipes at the bottom of this post!
With years of pancake-making experience under my belt, you can trust me when I say these homemade pumpkin spice pancakes are truly exceptional. They stand out for several reasons:
- Unbeatable Moisture: The star ingredient, pumpkin puree, ensures these pancakes are incredibly moist, preventing them from drying out like some traditional recipes. This gives them a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply divine.
- Rich Autumnal Flavor: Infused with a harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove, every bite evokes the quintessential tastes and aromas of fall. It’s like a warm hug in pancake form!
- Perfectly Fluffy Texture: Despite being packed with pumpkin, these pancakes rise beautifully, thanks to the right balance of leavening agents and careful mixing. They are light, airy, and stack up wonderfully.
- Easy to Make: Designed with simplicity in mind, this recipe uses straightforward ingredients and steps, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to create breakfast perfection.
- Versatile & Customizable: While they are magnificent on their own, these pumpkin pancakes are a fantastic base for a wide array of toppings, from classic maple syrup to more adventurous seasonal delights.
Imagine waking up tomorrow morning to the comforting scent of pumpkin and spices wafting through your home. Pair a steaming hot mug of tea or coffee with a towering stack of these delicious flapjacks, and you’ll experience love at first bite. These aren’t just pancakes; they’re a celebration of the season!
More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes to Try
- Easy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Pumpkin Biscuits with Whipped Maple Butter
- Pumpkin Bread and Cream Cheese Caramel Icing
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Scones
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
My goal is always to create recipes that are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, and this one is no exception! You won’t find any obscure ingredients here, just common pantry staples with one star exception: pumpkin puree. Make sure you grab the right kind – pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor profile of these homemade pumpkin spice pancakes.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Adds a hint of wholesome, nutty flavor and a bit more substance to the pancakes.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the classic light and tender texture we all love in a fluffy pancake.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents are crucial for achieving that signature tall, fluffy rise. Baking soda reacts with the acidic buttermilk to create extra lift.
- Buttermilk: Key for both flavor and texture. Its acidity reacts with the baking soda to create a light, tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then filling it with regular milk to 1¼ cups. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps keep the pancakes moist. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall salt content of the recipe.
- Honey: A touch of natural sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully. It also contributes to the pancakes’ moist texture.
- Large Egg: Acts as a binder, adding structure and richness to the batter, resulting in a more tender pancake.
- Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! This provides the unmistakable pumpkin flavor and contributes significantly to the pancakes’ incredible moisture. Remember: pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling!
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors, adding a comforting aroma and depth.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger, Clove): This warm blend is what gives these pancakes their classic “pumpkin spice” character, making them truly taste like autumn. You can adjust the quantities to suit your personal preference.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Making these easy pumpkin pancakes is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a perfect fall breakfast every time!
Step 1: Prepare Your Griddle for Success
Preheat your griddle or a large non-stick skillet over low to medium-low heat. This slow and steady preheating ensures an evenly heated surface, which is crucial for perfectly cooked pancakes that are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. A well-heated surface prevents sticking and promotes beautiful browning. While it preheats, gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Gently Combine Your Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove until well combined. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, honey, egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a whisk or spatula, mix until they are just combined. It is perfectly normal, and actually desirable, for there to be a few lumps in the batter. Overmixing is the enemy of fluffy pancakes, so stop as soon as the dry ingredients are mostly moistened.
Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection
Lightly grease your preheated griddle or pan with a small amount of butter or cooking spray if needed. Pour ¼ cupfuls of batter onto the hot griddle, leaving some space between each pancake. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on the first side. You’ll know it’s time to flip when small bubbles begin to form on the surface of the pancakes and the edges look set and slightly dry. Gently flip each pancake with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through in the center. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve Warm and Enjoy!
As each batch finishes cooking, transfer the hot pumpkin spice pancakes to a plate. To keep them warm while you cook the rest, you can place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F/90°C). Serve immediately with a generous drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or any of your favorite toppings. Prepare for an instant burst of autumnal deliciousness!
Expert Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Achieving perfectly fluffy, moist, and flavorful pumpkin pancakes is easy with a few simple tricks. Here are my top tips to elevate your breakfast game:
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: This is arguably the most crucial tip for any pancake recipe. Mixing the batter too much develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, flat pancakes. A few lumps are good! Mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened.
- Correct Griddle Temperature is Key: A medium-low heat is ideal. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. If it’s too cool, the pancakes will be dense and absorb too much oil. Test with a drop of water – it should sizzle gently.
- Rest the Batter (Optional, but Recommended): Letting your pancake batter rest for 5-10 minutes after mixing allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to relax, which can contribute to a lighter, fluffier pancake.
- Use Fresh Spices: Spices lose their potency over time. For the most vibrant autumnal flavor, ensure your cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove are fresh and fragrant. A quick sniff test will tell you if they’re still good.
- Measure Flour Correctly: For accurate results, spoon your flour into the measuring cup and then level it off with the back of a knife. Scooping directly from the bag can compact the flour, leading to too much flour and a denser pancake.
- Pumpkin Puree, Not Pie Filling: As mentioned, this is vital! Pumpkin puree is just cooked, pureed pumpkin. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which will change the flavor and sweetness of your pancakes significantly.
- Warm Serving Plates: To keep your pancakes warm and enjoyable from the first to the last bite, warm your serving plates in a low oven (around 150°F/65°C) while you cook.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Absolutely! You can mix the batter the night before. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, give it a gentle stir – avoid overmixing – and you might need to add a splash more buttermilk or milk if it has thickened too much. Then, heat your griddle and cook as directed. This is a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings!
Allow your leftover pumpkin spice pancakes to cool completely to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Then, store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To prevent them from sticking together in the freezer, place parchment paper between each pancake layer.
The number one secret to light and fluffy pancakes is to not overmix the batter! When you see a few lumps, resist the urge to keep stirring until it’s perfectly smooth. Those lumps are fine; overmixing develops gluten, which leads to tough, chewy pancakes. Additionally, the combination of baking powder, baking soda, and the acidity of buttermilk works wonders to create air pockets, resulting in that desirable airy texture.
Yes, you can often adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet. You’ll need to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (one that contains xanthan gum works best) to replace both the whole wheat and all-purpose flours. The consistency might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be wonderful.
No problem! You can easily make a substitute for buttermilk. Simply measure 1 cup of regular milk (dairy or non-dairy works) and stir in 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. Use this mixture in place of the buttermilk in the recipe. It will provide the necessary acidity for the baking soda to react and create fluffy pancakes.
Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
While these pumpkin spice pancakes are utterly delicious on their own, a little creativity with toppings can elevate your breakfast into an unforgettable culinary experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them:
- Classic Maple Syrup: You can never go wrong with a generous pour of warm, pure maple syrup. It’s a timeless pairing that truly shines with pumpkin.
- Homemade Pumpkin Butter: For an extra boost of seasonal flavor, spread a dollop of creamy Pumpkin Butter on top.
- Whipped Cream or Cream Cheese Glaze: A cloud of homemade whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence. Alternatively, a simple cream cheese glaze (cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla) takes them to dessert-level deliciousness.
- Crunchy Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and a nutty complement to the spices. Candied pecans are particularly divine!
- Seasonal Fruit: Sautéed apple slices with a hint of cinnamon, fresh pear chunks, or a sprinkle of dried cranberries can add freshness and a tangy note.
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Version: Gently fold some chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white chocolate) into your batter before cooking for a delightful pumpkin chocolate chip pancake experience – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- Healthy Boost: Top your pancakes with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of crunchy pumpkin granola. It adds texture, protein, and fiber to your breakfast, making it more satisfying.
- Salty-Sweet Perfection: For those who, like me, adore a salty/sweet combination, serve your pumpkin pancakes alongside crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage.
- Pair with a Warm Beverage: Enhance the autumnal vibes by serving your pancakes with a mug of Slow Cooker Apple Cider or a rich chai latte.
More Pancake Recipes You’ll Absolutely Love
If you’ve enjoyed these pumpkin spice pancakes, you’re in for a treat! My kitchen is a pancake paradise, and I have many more delicious recipes for you to explore, perfect for any mood or occasion:
- PB&J Pancakes
- Strawberry Whole Wheat Pancakes
- High Protein Cottage Cheese Pancakes
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
- Gingerbread Pancakes
No matter what you’re craving, there’s a pancake recipe here for you!
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Fluffy & Moist Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 3/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon each of ground nutmeg, ginger, and clove
Instructions
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Preheat a griddle or large non-stick pan over low to medium-low heat. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown crust on your pancakes.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and all the spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove). Whisk well to ensure they are evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, honey, egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a whisk or spatula until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly normal and actually preferred for fluffy pancakes – avoid overmixing!
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Lightly grease your preheated griddle or pan if necessary. Pour ¼ cupfuls of batter onto the hot griddle, ensuring there is enough space between each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until you start to see small bubbles forming on the top surface and the edges appear set. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter.
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Serve your warm, fluffy pumpkin spice pancakes immediately. Drizzle generously with maple syrup (or your favorite toppings!) and enjoy the delightful taste of autumn.
Notes
