If you’re craving that cozy, comforting flavor of fall on your breakfast plate, this Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the warm spices you love with the tender, fluffy texture of homemade pancakes and the rich, velvety taste of pumpkin puree, these pancakes are like a hug in food form. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or a special holiday morning, they effortlessly bring that autumn magic right to your kitchen. Let’s dive in and turn simple ingredients into a stack of sunshine and spice!

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating pancakes that are fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. From dry to wet components, the mix strikes a balance between hearty pumpkin flavor and that signature pumpkin spice warmth.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and lightness.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the spices.
2 teaspoons baking powder: The gentle lift that ensures fluffy pancakes every time.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic pumpkin spice essential for warmth and depth.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty warmth that enhances flavor complexity.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a touch of zing to balance the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Important for amplifying all the flavors and balancing sweetness.
1 1/4 cups milk: Hydrates the batter while keeping it tender and smooth.
1 large egg: Helps bind ingredients and offers richness.
3/4 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient; provides moisture, flavor, and beautiful color (draining excess moisture helps keep pancakes fluffy).
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together all your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and the trio of spices plus salt—in a large bowl. This step is key because mixing the spices evenly into the flour ensures every bite is bursting with that delightful pumpkin spice taste.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, beat the egg and then stir in the milk, pumpkin puree, and oil or melted butter. The pumpkin puree gives the batter its signature moistness and eye-catching hue, making these pancakes irresistible even before they hit the griddle.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Without Overmixing

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together with a spatula. It’s important not to overmix here; a slightly lumpy batter means your pancakes will be fluffy and tender, just like they should be.

Step 4: Adjust the Batter Consistency

If your batter feels too thick and struggles to spread in the pan, splash in a bit more milk until it reaches a pourable consistency that’s not too runny. This adjustment makes sure the pancakes cook evenly and stay tender.

Step 5: Preheat the Pan

Heat your griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. You want a hot surface but not so hot that the pancakes burn before cooking through. A gentle sizzle when batter hits the pan is your cue to start cooking.

Step 6: Cook the Pancakes

Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until you see bubbles appearing on the surface and the edges start to dry—usually 2 to 3 minutes. This is the perfect time to flip!

Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking

Using a spatula, carefully turn the pancakes and cook the other side for about 2 minutes. Look for that gorgeous golden-brown color and make sure they’re firm but still spring back slightly when you press them.

Step 8: Keep Warm and Serve

Transfer finished pancakes to a warm plate and keep covered while you cook the rest. This way, every stack you serve stays warm and inviting.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe

Garnishes

Top your pancakes with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar to add texture and visual appeal. A drizzle of real maple syrup or a splash of pure vanilla yogurt complements the pumpkin spice flavor beautifully, making each bite decadent and layered.

Side Dishes

Consider serving your pancakes with crispy bacon or savory sausage for a perfect sweet-savory balance. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears, or even a compote made from berries, brightens the plate and adds a touch of freshness that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the pancakes high and skewer them with cinnamon sticks or rosemary sprigs for a festive touch. For a fun twist, serve mini pumpkin spice pancakes on skewers as a playful breakfast appetizer. You can also spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting in between stacks for a luscious surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pancakes, cool them completely before stacking and wrapping tightly with plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to 2 days and are perfect for quick reheats.

Freezing

To enjoy these pancakes later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, making it easy to indulge in the Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe whenever you want without starting from scratch.

Reheating

Reheat your pancakes in a toaster or toaster oven to maintain their crispy edges, or warm them in a pan over low heat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pancakes a bit soggy. Either way, a quick reheat brings back that fresh-from-the-griddle magic.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe?

Absolutely! Just use canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), and make sure to drain any excess moisture if it’s very watery to keep the batter from getting too runny.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

No worries! Cinnamon is the most important, but you can adjust according to what you have. Even just cinnamon and nutmeg will give you a lovely pumpkin spice flavor.

Can I make these pancakes vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg or mashed banana, use a plant-based milk, and replace the butter with a vegan alternative or oil. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still taste amazing.

How do I know when the pancakes are cooked through?

Look for bubbles forming on the surface and edges starting to set before flipping. After flipping, cook until golden brown and the pancake springs back lightly when pressed.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely! Just make sure your mixing bowl is large enough and you may need to cook the pancakes in batches, adjusting your heat as needed to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a batch of Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe from scratch. From the aroma that fills your kitchen to the first warm, spiced bite, it’s a delightful way to bring a touch of fall into any morning. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s not only easy but truly brings joy to your breakfast table, turning an ordinary day into something special.

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Recipe