Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Whipped Cream

As the crisp air of autumn begins to envelop us, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of warm, spiced flavors to start the day. Enter pumpkin spice pancakes, a seasonal delight that has quickly become a favorite in households across the country. My family, for instance, eagerly anticipates the arrival of fall not just for the vibrant foliage and cozy sweaters, but for the indulgence of these fluffy, aromatic pancakes topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves melds beautifully with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, creating a breakfast experience that feels both indulgent and heartwarming. Each bite is reminiscent of pumpkin pie, yet the pancakes remain light and fluffy, making them an instant hit at the breakfast table. Whether enjoyed leisurely over a weekend brunch or as a quick weekday treat, these pancakes have a way of making everyone feel a little more connected to the spirit of the season.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect pumpkin spice pancakes requires a blend of traditional and seasonal ingredients that marry together seamlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing you to enjoy homemade pumpkin spice pancakes without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s how to make them:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This dry mixture forms the base of your pancake batter.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense pancakes.
  4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
  5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. Remove pancakes from the skillet and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
  7. Serve the pancakes warm, topped with a generous spoonful of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, with each serving containing around 250 calories. These numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

Preparation Time

From start to finish, you’ll need about 25 minutes to whip up these delightful pancakes. This includes around 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying breakfast!

How to Serve

These pumpkin spice pancakes are versatile and can be served in a variety of delicious ways. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience:

  • Classic Style: Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup for a traditional approach.
  • Nutty Delight: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
  • Fruity Twist: Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a burst of freshness.
  • Chocolaty Indulgence: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise.
  • Yogurt and Honey: Dollop with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a healthier alternative.

Additional Tips

To ensure your pumpkin spice pancakes turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

  • Do Not Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until the batter comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
  • Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you love cinnamon, add a touch more!
  • Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you have fresh pumpkin available, consider using it instead of canned puree for an enhanced flavor.
  • Keep Pancakes Warm: Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a warm oven to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings. Try adding caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for a special touch.

FAQ

Q: Can I make the batter in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the batter a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might separate slightly.

Q: Can I freeze leftover pancakes?

A: Absolutely! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the toaster or oven as needed.

Q: What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

A: If you’re out of pumpkin puree, sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree can be used as substitutes with similar results.

Q: Are these pancakes gluten-free?

A: This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free. Ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Q: How can I make these pancakes vegan?

A: To make vegan pumpkin spice pancakes, use a plant-based milk, replace the egg with a flax egg, and substitute the butter with coconut oil or another vegan alternative.

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