Pumpkin Pancakes
As the leaves turn golden and a crisp chill fills the air, nothing warms the soul quite like a stack of Pumpkin Pancakes. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats for my family on a sleepy autumn morning. The aroma of spices wafted through the kitchen, coaxing everyone out of their beds and into the heart of our home. It felt like a celebration of the season, each fluffy pancake layered with the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices. When we gathered around the table, laughter and stories blended with the sound of forks clinking against plates, making it a moment I cherish. Now, I love to share this tradition with friends, inviting them to experience the joy of Pumpkin Pancakes that bring everyone together on cozy mornings.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Medium
320 kcal
7 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk
These pancakes are not just a dish; they’re a memory in the making. The vibrant orange hue of the pumpkin, paired with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, makes them a visual treat as well. They’re fluffy, light, and perfect for drizzling with pure maple syrup or topping with the luxurious, homemade maple cinnamon whipped cream that I simply can’t get enough of. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, these Pumpkin Pancakes are bound to become a favorite at your table.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Medium
320 kcal
7 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk
Why We Love This Pumpkin Pancakes
1. Seasonal Delight
Every bite of Pumpkin Pancakes captures the essence of fall. The use of fresh pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes them a perfect fit for this season, and they evoke feelings of coziness and comfort. It’s like a hug on your plate, perfect for chilly mornings.
2. Homemade Whipped Cream
One of the standout features of this recipe is the maple cinnamon whipped cream. It’s incredibly easy to make and elevates the pancakes to a whole new level. The combination of heavy cream, maple syrup, and a hint of cinnamon creates a light yet rich topping that pairs beautifully with the pancakes.
3. Versatile and Fun
These pancakes are incredibly versatile. You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving a crowd or making a special breakfast for yourself, Pumpkin Pancakes can be easily adapted to please everyone.
4. Family Tradition
Making Pumpkin Pancakes has become a cherished family tradition for me. It’s a great way to gather everyone together in the kitchen, whether it’s for a holiday breakfast or a lazy Sunday brunch. Cooking together and sharing these pancakes has created lasting memories for my family.
5. Healthy Comfort Food
These pancakes incorporate wholesome ingredients, making them a healthier choice than many breakfast options. With real pumpkin providing fiber and nutrients, you can enjoy these indulgent pancakes without the guilt.
6. Quick and Easy
Despite their gourmet taste, Pumpkin Pancakes are surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. You can whip them up in no time, making them ideal for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
Everything You Need for Pumpkin Pancakes

Creating the perfect stack of Pumpkin Pancakes starts with choosing the right ingredients. Each one plays a role in building the warm flavors and fluffy texture that we all love. The combination of fresh pumpkin, spices, and wholesome ingredients makes these pancakes a delightful breakfast option any time of the year, especially in the fall.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for your pancakes, giving them structure and a fluffy texture.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a rich sweetness that complements the earthiness of the pumpkin.
- Baking Powder – Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.
- Baking Soda – Works in conjunction with the acidic buttermilk to create a light texture.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of warm spices that gives these pancakes their signature flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the pancakes tender.
- Pumpkin Puree – The star of the dish, providing flavor, moisture, and a beautiful orange color.
- Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor and moisture to the batter as well as for cooking the pancakes.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely aroma.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Used to make the whipped cream topping, adding richness.
- Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that pairs perfectly with pancakes.
- Ground Cinnamon – A sprinkle on top adds extra warmth and flavor.
Preparation Steps for Pumpkin Pancakes

Making Pumpkin Pancakes is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. Follow these easy steps to create a delectable breakfast that will leave everyone smiling.
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt. This dry mix creates the foundation for your pancakes, and combining these ingredients properly ensures a uniform flavor throughout. Make sure no large lumps remain, especially in the baking powder and baking soda.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. As you combine these wet ingredients, you’ll notice their vibrant colors. The mixture should be smooth, and you might see a few small lumps, which is perfectly fine. This is where the magic of flavor begins.
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; a few small lumps are okay. This step is crucial for ensuring your pancakes remain fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes, which we want to avoid.
Set the pancake batter aside and allow it to rest at room temperature for ten minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and the baking powder to activate, leading to fluffier pancakes. You might notice the batter thickens slightly.
While the batter rests, preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Grease the pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray. The pan should be hot but not smoking, ensuring your pancakes cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
When the pan is hot, use a quarter-cup measure to add mounds of batter to the pan. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about two to three minutes. You’ll see the edges begin to set; this is a good indicator that it’s time to flip the pancakes.
Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional one to two minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The pancakes should be fluffy and firm to the touch. You can adjust the heat as needed to ensure they don’t burn.
Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as necessary. Keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest. You can stack them high on a plate, and the smell will undoubtedly draw everyone to the table.
For the maple cinnamon whipped cream, place the heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form, about three minutes. This whipped cream is not only light and fluffy but carries the essence of fall.
Serve the Pumpkin Pancakes topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup. The contrast of the warm pancakes and cold whipped cream is a delightful experience. Enjoy them with your loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Things Worth Knowing
- Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest for about ten minutes is essential for fluffy pancakes. This lets the gluten relax, resulting in a lighter texture.
- Pan Temperature: Make sure your pan is at the right temperature. If it’s too hot, the pancakes will burn before they cook through. If it’s too cool, they may turn out flat.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can create tough pancakes that aren’t fluffy.
- Serving Suggestions: Try serving these pancakes with sliced bananas, walnuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added flavor and texture.
Making Adjustments

While Pumpkin Pancakes are delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some tips to help you get creative.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about two to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pancakes for up to a month. Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking.
- Pairing: Serve these pancakes with crispy fried apples or a side of sausage for a complete breakfast experience.
- Variations: Add chocolate chips, pecans, or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these pancakes gluten-free.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to make the pancakes more or less sweet according to your taste.
What Goes Well With This Pumpkin Pancakes
- Maple Syrup: A classic topping that pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin and spices.
- Fresh Fruits: Consider serving with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
- Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds a creamy texture and tanginess that complements the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Breakfast Meats: Serve alongside some turkey sausage or scrambled eggs to make it a hearty breakfast.
- Seasonal Decor: Enhance the autumn experience by serving on festive plates or with decorative pumpkins on the table.
- Brunch Buffets: These pancakes are perfect for brunch gatherings during the fall, allowing guests to customize their toppings.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Pumpkin Pancakes are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall while creating lasting memories with loved ones. Their light, fluffy texture and rich flavor make them a perfect breakfast or brunch option that everyone will adore. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—once you do, they may just become your new family tradition!

Pumpkin Pancakes
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- ¼ cup Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1½ teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1¼ cups Buttermilk
- ½ cup Pumpkin Puree
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Set the pancake batter aside and allow it to rest at room temperature for ten minutes.
- While the batter rests, preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- When the pan is hot, use a quarter-cup measure to add a few mounds of batter to the pan.
- Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional one to two minutes.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as necessary.
- For the maple cinnamon whipped cream, place the heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Serve the pancakes topped with a dollop of whipped cream and some maple syrup.
Notes
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about two to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pancakes for up to a month. Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking.
- Pairing: Serve these pancakes with crispy fried apples or a side of sausage for a complete breakfast experience.
- Variations: Add chocolate chips, pecans, or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these pancakes gluten-free.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to make the pancakes more or less sweet according to your taste.


