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If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, warmly spiced breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate, this Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture fluffy, golden-brown pancakes infused with the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread spices and just the right hint of molasses sweetness. It’s a perfect treat for chilly mornings or any time you want to bring a bit of festive cheer to your kitchen. These pancakes are simple to whip up, yet they bring such a wonderful depth of flavor that everyone will be asking for seconds.

Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating texture, warmth, and that signature holiday flavor. From the fragrant spices to the rich molasses, every item adds its own magic.

2 1/4 cups flour: The base that gives the pancakes structure and a tender crumb.
2 teaspoons cinnamon: Adds sweet warmth and depth, a must-have in gingerbread flavor.
2 teaspoons Gingerbread Spice Mix: A blend that brings together ground ginger, clove, nutmeg, and allspice for that classic gingerbread aroma.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your pancakes are light and fluffy.
1/4 cup brown sugar (dark brown preferred): Enhances sweetness with a hint of molasses and a moist texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors so the sweetness doesn’t overwhelm.
1 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps dissolve the dry ingredients.
1/3 cup molasses: The heart of the flavor here—use regular molasses for sweetness and rich color (avoid blackstrap as it’s too bitter).
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add a silky texture.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the pancakes tender and helps with browning.

How to Make Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

Start by mixing all the dry ingredients—flour, cinnamon, gingerbread spice mix, baking powder, brown sugar, and salt—in a large bowl until they are well blended. In a separate jug, whisk together the milk, molasses, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This separation streamlines the process and helps avoid overmixing later on.

Step 2: Gently Fold Wet Ingredients into Dry

Pour the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spoon or spatula, fold everything together just until combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps here and there are perfect and will keep your pancakes light and fluffy. This gentle approach makes all the difference for tender bites with that classic gingerbread texture.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes to Golden Perfection

Heat up your griddle or frying pan on medium-low and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or a touch of oil. Pour about 2 to 3 tablespoons of batter per pancake onto the pan. Cook patiently until bubbles start popping on the surface—this usually takes a few minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until they’re beautifully browned on both sides. The aroma now filling your kitchen is pure cozy perfection.

How to Serve Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishes, the sky’s the limit! A dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of warm maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar all complement the deep, spicy notes beautifully. For an extra festive touch, try adding a handful of toasted pecans or a few fresh cranberries. These little bursts of texture and color make the experience even more memorable.

Side Dishes

Pairing your gingerbread pancakes with the right sides can turn breakfast into a full celebration. Fresh fruit like orange slices or spiced apples goes perfectly with the warm spices. On the savory side, crispy bacon or sausage links add a smoky counterpoint that balances sweetness wonderfully. Even a simple glass of hot apple cider makes an inviting accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Stack your pancakes high and drizzle with a cinnamon-infused syrup, or create a pancake bar where everyone tops their own stack with nuts, fruit, and whipped cream. You can even use cookie cutters to shape pancakes for the kids or stack them between layers of mascarpone cheese and cranberry compote for a brunch-worthy dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent sogginess. This way, you can enjoy your Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe even on busy mornings when time is tight.

Freezing

These pancakes freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together and freeze until firm, then stack with parchment paper in between and store in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready to warm you up whenever a gingerbread craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat pancakes gently in a toaster, microwave, or on a low-heat skillet to bring back their soft, fluffy texture. Avoid overheating to keep the flavors vibrant and avoid drying them out. With just a few minutes, they taste almost as good as fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious and full of that warming gingerbread flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have gingerbread spice mix?

You can make your own by combining equal parts ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. This simple blend will perfectly recreate that signature taste in your gingerbread pancakes.

Is molasses necessary in this recipe?

Yes, molasses is key for that deep, rich flavor and color characteristic of gingerbread. Be sure to use regular molasses (not blackstrap) for the right sweetness without bitterness.

Can I make vegan gingerbread pancakes?

Definitely! Replace the milk with a plant-based alternative, swap eggs for flaxseed eggs or applesauce, and use oil as usual. The flavor remains wonderfully spiced and comforting.

How thick should the batter be?

The batter should be thick but pourable. It will hold a bit of shape when spooned onto the pan but still spread slightly as it cooks, ensuring fluffy pancakes with a tender crumb.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe is one of those delightful finds that brings warmth and joy to the breakfast table. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a festive gathering, these pancakes are sure to brighten up your day with their rich spice and sweet molasses notes. So grab your mixing bowl and cook up a batch — I promise you’ll want to make this a regular tradition.