If you are dreaming of cozy mornings filled with the warm flavors of fall, this Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These pancakes are irresistibly soft and tender, with just the perfect hint of pumpkin and spice that makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast or a special occasion brunch, this recipe brings the comforting taste of pumpkin combined with a fluffiness that feels like a gentle morning hug. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be reaching for this Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to unlocking the magic of these pancakes. Each ingredient is simple but plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that oh-so-appealing golden color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure but keeps pancakes tender.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: Brings that familiar, cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances warmth and depth to every bite.
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder: The secret to lightness and fluffiness by helping the batter rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the yogurt for an airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds everything together and adds richness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (divided): Adds silky moisture and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling): The star ingredient delivering that unmistakable pumpkin flavor and moisture.
- 1 ½ cups plain yogurt (room temperature, not Greek yogurt): Adds tanginess and tenderness while keeping the batter moist.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional garnish): Provides a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
- Whipped cream (optional garnish): For a luscious, creamy topping that makes brunch feel indulgent.
How to Make Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients
Begin by whisking together the flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures that all your dry flavors are evenly distributed, which is essential for perfectly flavored pancakes throughout.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
Next, melt 3 tablespoons of the butter gently in the microwave or on the stove. In a medium bowl, whisk this melted butter with the eggs, pumpkin puree, and yogurt until smooth and well blended. The room temperature eggs and yogurt help the batter stay smooth and come together effortlessly.
Step 3: Combine wet and dry ingredients gently
Carefully fold the wet pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients to avoid overmixing. You want everything just combined to keep your pancakes tender and light. Bits of flour are okay—this means you’re on the right track for softness!
Step 4: Let the batter rest
This little pause of about five minutes is key. It allows the baking powder and baking soda to activate, bubbles start forming, and the batter gets a bit puffy, which means your pancakes will be extra fluffy when cooked.
Step 5: Prepare the skillet
While the batter rests, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Using moderate heat prevents burning and helps those pancakes cook evenly and beautifully golden.
Step 6: Cook the pancakes
Pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Using a soft silicone spatula, gently flatten the pancake just a little. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until the edges begin to brown and bubbles pop on the surface. Flip carefully and cook the other side to golden perfection.
Step 7: Keep pancakes warm
Transfer cooked pancakes to an oven set at 200°F to keep them warm and fluffy while you finish cooking the rest. This keeps the whole batch perfect for serving all at once, super important when feeding friends and family!
Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Toss those pancakes onto plates and get ready to dive into the wonderful flavors that this Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe brings to your table!
How to Serve Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of pumpkin pancakes is how well they play with toppings. Crushed pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the warm spices perfectly. For an extra touch of indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream melts gently on top, making each bite rich and dreamy.
Side Dishes
Pair your pancakes with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears for a crisp contrast, or a drizzle of pure maple syrup for classic sweetness. A side of crispy bacon or savory sausage offers a fantastic balance to the sweet and spiced pancakes, creating a harmony of flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack the pumpkin pancakes and layer them with cream cheese spread or a cinnamon honey glaze between each pancake layer. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh herbs like mint or thyme for visual appeal. You could also serve mini pumpkin pancakes skewered on sticks at brunch parties—they’re cute, bite-sized, and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover pumpkin pancakes (and trust me, that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To help keep them moist, place a paper towel between layers to absorb excess moisture without drying them out.
Freezing
These pancakes freeze beautifully! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before stacking in freezer-safe bags. This prevents sticking and means you can enjoy warm pumpkin pancakes any morning with zero fuss.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a toaster or oven at a low temperature so they warm through evenly and maintain their fluffy texture. Avoid the microwave when possible as it can make pancakes rubbery or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree because pumpkin pie filling has added sugars and spices that can affect the flavor balance and texture of your pancakes.
Why does this recipe use yogurt instead of milk?
Yogurt adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the pumpkin flavor while keeping the pancakes incredibly tender and fluffy. Milk tends to make the batter thinner and can compromise that fluffiness.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. You may need to check the consistency of your batter and adjust slightly with extra flour or liquid.
How do I prevent my pancakes from sticking?
Melt your butter over medium-low heat and ensure your skillet is well-coated before adding batter. Patience with cooking temperature is key to achieving a golden crust that doesn’t stick.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit?
Yes! Chocolate chips, blueberries, or even diced apples can be folded into the batter for added flavor and texture, but be careful not to overmix after adding them.
Final Thoughts
This Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe is a joyful way to embrace the flavors of the season any time you want. The rich pumpkin, warm spices, and soft texture come together to create a breakfast treat that feels both festive and comforting. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find your new favorite pancake tradition!
Print
Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes are a perfect seasonal breakfast treat, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon with a light, airy texture. Made with pumpkin puree, yogurt, and a balance of spices, these pancakes are delightfully moist and fluffy, ideal for a cozy morning. Garnish with chopped pecans and whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 ½ cups plain yogurt (room temperature, not Greek yogurt)
Optional Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, whisk in the eggs, pumpkin puree, and yogurt until fully blended.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet pumpkin mixture into the dry flour mixture until they are just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to maintain fluffiness in the batter.
- Rest Batter: Let the batter rest for five minutes while you preheat your skillet. The batter is ready when it looks puffy and small bubbles start forming on the surface.
- Heat Skillet and Melt Butter: Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat, allowing it to bubble but not brown.
- Cook Pancakes: Scoop about 1/3 cup of batter into the skillet and flatten slightly with a soft silicone spatula or flipper. Cook on low heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the edges brown and bubbles form on top, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
- Keep Warm: As you cook the remaining pancakes, keep the finished ones warm by placing them in an oven set to 200° F.
- Serve: Serve the pancakes warm, garnished with chopped pecans and whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Do not over-mix the batter to keep pancakes fluffy.
- Use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.
- Allowing the batter to rest helps develop a better rise during cooking.
- Optional garnishes like pecans and whipped cream add flavor and texture.
- Cook pancakes on low heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
