As the leaves turn and there's a crisp chill in the air, nothing says October like the cozy warmth of Pumpkin Spice Pancakes. These pancakes are the epitome of fall comfort, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices into a fluffy, satisfying breakfast treat.
The all-purpose flour forms the base of our pancake batter, providing structure. Sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the spices. Baking powder and baking soda are our leavening agents, creating fluffy pancakes. A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor.
For that quintessential fall flavor, we have ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger — a trio of spices that scream autumn. Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, while pumpkin puree not only brings in the flavor of fall but also gives the pancakes a beautiful orange hue.
A large egg binds everything together, and unsalted butter, melted, adds richness to the mix. Finally, a splash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors with a sweet, aromatic note.
These pancakes pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. For a full autumnal breakfast, serve them alongside crispy bacon or a side of sautéed apples. A warm cup of chai or a pumpkin spice latte makes for the perfect beverage accompaniment.
Start by whisking together your dry ingredients in a large bowl: the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: buttermilk, pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir them until smooth — you want a nice, even mixture without lumps of pumpkin.
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few small lumps in the batter are perfectly okay. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Once the pan is hot, pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until you see bubbles forming on the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 2 minutes until they’re golden brown.
Serve your pancakes warm, drizzled with maple syrup and perhaps a pat of butter on top for extra indulgence.