Name: Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups buttermilk; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 2 each eggs; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt; Butter and maple syrup (for serving)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly made Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes wafting through the house. Each autumn, I find myself drawn to the warm and comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. On those crisp mornings, I gather around the kitchen with my family, eager to flip some pancakes and share stories over a steaming cup of coffee. The joy of preparing Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes has become a cherished tradition, one that evokes memories of laughter and togetherness. I can still hear my kids giggle as they watch the pancakes bubble away on the griddle, waiting excitedly for their turn to dig in. This recipe is not just about the pancakes themselves; it’s about creating moments and filling hearts with warmth during the fall season.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why This Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Works

Comfort in Every Bite

One bite of these Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes and you’ll understand why they’re a family favorite. The fluffy texture combined with the rich pumpkin flavor creates a delightful breakfast experience that’s both comforting and satisfying. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up these pancakes. The steps are simple and quick, allowing even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen. Just mix the ingredients, pour, flip, and serve. It’s that easy!

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

Whether it’s a cozy breakfast for two or a bustling brunch with friends, Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes are the perfect dish to bring people together. They’re festive enough for any fall celebration, making them a go-to option for gatherings.

Customizable Delight

This recipe serves as a fantastic base that you can easily customize. From adding chocolate chips to incorporating nuts or different spices, you can create variations that suit your taste. It’s a pancake recipe that grows with you and your family’s preferences!

Delicious Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house), these pancakes reheat beautifully. Just pop them in the toaster or microwave for a delicious breakfast any day of the week. Who doesn’t love waking up to a pre-made breakfast?

Shopping List for Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the perfect stack of Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful flavor and fluffy texture. The star ingredient, pumpkin puree, brings moisture and flavor, while the buttermilk adds a tangy richness. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend that results in pancakes you’ll crave all season long.

2 cups buttermilk – This creamy base helps to create a tender pancake. If you don’t have buttermilk, a quick mix of milk and vinegar can work as a substitute.
1 cup pumpkin puree – The heart of the recipe, providing that classic pumpkin flavor and vibrant color.
2 each eggs – These help bind the ingredients together, contributing to the fluffiness.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Melted for richness in the batter and used for cooking, adding a delicious buttery flavor.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – This ingredient elevates the overall sweetness and flavor profile.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The main structure of the pancakes, giving them a fluffy texture.
1/3 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the pancakes just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
1 tablespoon baking powder – This leavening agent makes the pancakes rise, ensuring they’re light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the buttermilk to create a nice lift.
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice – A blend of spices that brings warmth and depth to the pancakes.
1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt – Enhances all the flavors in the batter.
Butter and maple syrup for serving – These are perfect finishing touches to your stack of pancakes.

Making This Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes

Creating Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes is a joyous process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Let’s dive into the steps of making these delightful pancakes that will become a staple in your breakfast repertoire.

To start, grab a large bowl and add the buttermilk. If you’re using the vinegar plus milk option, allow it to sit for about ten minutes so the milk can transform into buttermilk.
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Take a whisk and stir everything together until nicely combined. You want a smooth and creamy mixture that will be the base of your pancakes.
In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. This includes the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir these together well so that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Pour the dry mixture over the wet ingredients. Now, gently mix them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will ensure your pancakes remain light and fluffy.
Let the batter rest for about five minutes. This resting period allows the baking powder to activate, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
While the batter rests, heat a non-stick griddle to three hundred twenty-five degrees or set a large frying pan over medium heat. If your frying pan isn’t non-stick, melt a little butter on the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
Once hot, use a one-third cup measuring cup (or a trigger-handled ice cream scoop, which I love) to pour the batter onto the griddle or frying pan. Make sure to leave some space between each pancake.
The pancakes are ready to flip when you see they look a little dry around the edges and start to form small bubbles, typically after one to two minutes. Flip them carefully!
Cook on the other side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take another one to two minutes.
When they’re done, serve your Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes topped with butter and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of your creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Resting the batter: Allowing the batter to rest for about five minutes before cooking helps the baking powder activate, leading to fluffier pancakes.
Temperature matters: Ensure your griddle or pan is preheated to the right temperature to get that perfect golden brown color.
Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined allows for a lighter texture. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
Watch for bubbles: Look for bubbles forming on the surface of the pancakes to determine when to flip them.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

One of the best things about Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes is their adaptability. Here are some ideas to make them your own:

Add chocolate chips: A sweet surprise! Throw in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Use whole wheat flour: For a healthier option, swap half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat.
Mix in nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the pancakes.
Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. More cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor.
Try different syrups: Instead of traditional maple syrup, experiment with flavored syrups like caramel or even fruit syrups.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive diets.

What to Serve With Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes

Breakfast beverages: Pair your pancakes with steaming coffee or a spiced chai latte. Both complement the warm flavors beautifully.
Fruit toppings: Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a fruity touch that balances the richness of the pancakes.
Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt can introduce a creamy texture and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor.
Seasonal sides: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or sausage for a heartier breakfast.
Brunch gatherings: These pancakes are a perfect addition to any brunch spread, accompanied by a variety of sides, such as fruit salads or savory breakfast casseroles.
Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; they reheat wonderfully!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can easily make Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes dairy-free by substituting the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk combined with a little vinegar. Use dairy-free butter for cooking as well. The pancakes will still be delicious and fluffy!

If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can substitute it with mashed sweet potatoes or even applesauce for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that each alternative will bring its unique taste, but they all create tasty pancakes!

Yes, you can freeze Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast!

The key to knowing when Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes are done is to look for bubbles forming on the surface and for the edges to look a bit dry. That’s your signal to flip them. After flipping, cook until the other side is golden brown. This ensures you have perfectly cooked pancakes!

Conclusion

Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes offer a warm and inviting taste of fall that makes every breakfast feel special. The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a delightful flavor that pairs beautifully with syrup and butter. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it a part of your autumn traditions. Trust me, once you taste these pancakes, they’ll quickly become a family favorite!