Name: Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Whole Wheat Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 1 pinch Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 pinch Ground Ginger; 1 pinch Ground Cloves; 1/4 cup Almond Milk; 1/4 cup Plain Fat-Free Greek Yogurt; 1/2 cup Canned Pumpkin; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 large Egg; Oil or melted butter for the pan Oil or Melted Butter; 60-70 pieces Dark Chocolate Chips

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There’s something magical about a cozy morning filled with the warm aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen, especially when it comes to making Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes. Growing up, my favorite weekends were those crisp fall mornings when we would gather as a family, and my mom would whip up a batch of these delicious pancakes. The golden brown color of the pancakes, combined with the slight crunch of dark chocolate chips, always made my mouth water in anticipation. As the pancakes sizzled on the skillet, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg lingered, wrapping us in a comforting embrace. It isn’t just a breakfast; it’s a cherished tradition that brings everyone together.

These Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes have a delightful texture that’s both fluffy and hearty, making them a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch. They are the kind of pancakes that can easily turn a simple morning into a special occasion. Whether you’re serving them with maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt, the combination of pumpkin and dark chocolate will surely satisfy your cravings. I often make a double batch on weekends so that I can enjoy them throughout the week. Trust me, once you try making these pancakes, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation for years to come.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
6g g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
5g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

The Best Thing About This Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes

It’s a Fall Classic

When the leaves change color, it’s a sign that pumpkin season is upon us. These Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes are a staple in our household during the fall. The flavor of pumpkin combined with spices creates a cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. I love how they capture the essence of the season.

Nourishing Ingredients

This recipe embraces wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour and almond milk. Not only do they add nutritional value, but they also enhance the flavors. The use of Greek yogurt instead of oil makes them lighter while still ensuring they’re moist and delicious.

Perfectly Fluffy

The secret to these pancakes’ fluffy texture lies in the gentle mixing of the batter. I always emphasize not to overmix the batter; it should remain slightly thick. This ensures that each pancake puffs up beautifully when cooked.

Chocolate Chips Galore

Let’s be honest; who doesn’t love chocolate? Adding dark chocolate chips to the pancakes elevates them to another level. Every bite offers a delightful surprise of melted chocolate that pairs perfectly with the spiced batter.

Easy to Customize

This recipe is adaptable to fit your preferences. You can add chopped nuts for extra crunch or even swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous. You can easily make these pancakes your own!

Perfect for Meal Prepping

What I love the most is that these pancakes can be made ahead of time and frozen for later. Just heat them up, and you have a hearty breakfast ready in minutes. They are perfect for busy weekdays!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes

The ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes come together in harmony to create a delicious, nutritious breakfast option. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from enhancing texture to adding flavor. The star of the show, pumpkin, not only adds moisture but also a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.

Whole Wheat Flour: 3/4 cup – This flour adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content of the pancakes.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon – This leavening agent helps the pancakes rise, making them fluffy.
Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon – It adds a hint of caramel sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Salt: A pinch – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon – A warm spice that complements the pumpkin.
Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon – This spice adds a lovely depth to the flavor profile.
Ground Ginger: A pinch – Contributes a zesty warmth to the mix.
Ground Cloves: A pinch – Adds a strong aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Almond Milk: 1/4 cup – A dairy-free alternative that keeps the pancakes moist.
Plain Fat-Free Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup – Adds creaminess and protein without extra fat.
Canned Pumpkin: 1/2 cup – The main ingredient that gives moisture and a rich flavor.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Infuses sweetness and depth into the batter.
Egg: 1 – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
Oil or Melted Butter: For the pan – Provides a non-stick surface to cook the pancakes.
Dark Chocolate Chips: 60-70 – Optional, but they add a delicious surprise in every bite!

How to Make Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes

Making Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warmth and joy. Follow these steps for perfectly fluffy and flavorful pancakes that everyone will love:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well incorporated. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Add your ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and ground cloves to the flour mixture and whisk again. The spices will contribute to the warm flavors that make these pancakes special.
In a separate bowl, mix together the canned pumpkin and plain fat-free Greek yogurt. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined. This will serve as the wet ingredients that add moisture and flavor.
Next, add the egg to the pumpkin and yogurt mixture, along with the brown sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until blended, ensuring the egg is fully incorporated.
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Alternate adding the flour mixture and almond milk to the wet ingredients. Start and end with the flour mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined; be careful not to overmix! The batter should be somewhat thick but still pourable.
Heat a non-stick skillet or pan over medium heat. Once hot, add about 1 teaspoon of oil or 2 teaspoons of melted butter to coat the surface. It’s important to ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the batter.
Using a measuring cup, pour about 1/4 cup of the batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Use a spoon to spread the batter slightly if necessary. Sprinkle 6 to 7 dark chocolate chips on top of each pancake before flipping.
When the edges of the pancakes start to bubble and the surface looks set, carefully flip them over using a spatula. Cook until both sides are golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on your stove.
Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a plate and keep them warm in an oven set to 200 degrees F while you finish cooking the rest of the batch. This helps to keep them fluffy and warm.
Enjoy your Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes with a big glass of milk or your favorite toppings. They are delicious on their own, but feel free to add maple syrup or whipped cream if you desire!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t Overmix: Gentle mixing is key. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your wet ingredients, like Greek yogurt and almond milk, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter.
Check Skillet Temperature: Ensure your skillet is at the right temperature before adding batter. If it’s too hot, the pancakes may burn; too low, and they won’t cook through.
Batch Cooking: If you’re making a large batch, keep pancakes warm in a low oven while cooking the rest. This keeps them fluffy and ready to serve.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster or microwave.

Helpful Hints

Cooking can often come with its own set of challenges, but these tips will help you make the most out of your experience making Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes.

Storage: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze these pancakes for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Pairing: These pancakes pair wonderfully with fresh fruits like bananas or berries, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions: For a special touch, serve these pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
Customization: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch!

What Goes Well With This Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes

When it comes to serving Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes, there are several delightful options to consider that will complement their flavors and enhance your breakfast experience:

Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over the pancakes adds a sweet finish that perfectly balances the spices.
Fresh Fruits: Serve with sliced bananas or mixed berries for a refreshing touch and added nutrition.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the richness and adds an indulgent element to your pancakes.
Yogurt: Pairing pancakes with a side of yogurt offers a creamy contrast and additional protein.
Nut Butter: For a nutty flavor, spread almond or peanut butter on the pancakes before topping with syrup.
Seasonal Occasions: These pancakes are perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or holiday breakfasts, especially during the fall season.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to help the pancakes hold together.

Store any leftover Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to place parchment paper between the pancakes to prevent them from sticking together.

Yes! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and add a crunchy texture to your Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes. Just fold them into the batter before cooking.

There are so many delicious toppings you can pair with Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes. Maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a spread of nut butter are all fantastic options. Get creative and enjoy!

Conclusion

The Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. The combination of spices and chocolate creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home as it has in mine.