Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Indulge in the warm flavors of fall with these Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes. This delightful recipe combines the rich taste of canned pumpkin with warm spices, making it perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. These light and airy pancakes are sure to impress family and friends alike with their fluffy texture and sweet aroma. Serve them with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch. Ideal for any occasion, these pancakes are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making them a great choice for busy mornings.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
2 cups (all-purpose, sifted)
granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (for sweetness)
baking powder
4 teaspoons (for leavening)
salt
1 teaspoon (to enhance flavor)
cinnamon
1 teaspoon (for warm spice flavor)
milk
1 1/2 cups (whole or low-fat, lukewarm)
canned pumpkin
1 cup (pure puree, not pie filling)
eggs
4 (slightly beaten)
margarine
1/4 cup (melted)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
2
In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, slightly beaten eggs, melted margarine, and canned pumpkin until smooth and well combined.
3
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
4
Preheat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or cooking spray.
5
Pour about 1/3 cup of the batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook until the edges begin to set and bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
6
Flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the opposite side until golden brown.
7
Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and keep warm while you repeat with the remaining batter. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes?
They are light and airy breakfast pancakes made with canned pumpkin puree and warm autumn spices like cinnamon.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of canned pumpkin?
No, this recipe specifically calls for pure pumpkin puree. Pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor and consistency.
What is the secret to making these pancakes fluffy?
The secret is to avoid overmixing the batter. Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine and help create a light texture.
What type of flour should I use?
The recipe recommends using 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
Can I substitute margarine with butter?
Yes, you can substitute 1/4 cup of melted butter for the margarine if you prefer a richer taste.
What kind of milk is best for this recipe?
You can use 1 1/2 cups of whole or low-fat milk. It is best if the milk is lukewarm to prevent the melted margarine from solidifying.
How many eggs are required?
This recipe requires 4 eggs that should be slightly beaten before being added to the wet ingredients.
What spices give it the pumpkin spice flavor?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, which perfectly complements the canned pumpkin.
How much baking powder is needed for leavening?
The recipe calls for 4 teaspoons of baking powder to ensure the pancakes rise and stay fluffy.
What temperature should the griddle be?
Preheat your non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat for the best results.
How long should I cook each side?
Cook the first side for about 2-3 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
How do I know when to flip the pancakes?
Wait until the edges begin to set and small bubbles appear on the surface of the batter.
Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook them and keep them warm in a low-temperature oven, or freeze them for later use.
What are some recommended toppings?
Popular toppings include maple syrup, whipped cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Absolutely! These pancakes are perfect for a cozy fall-themed brunch or a special weekend breakfast.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 4 people.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Yes, adding chocolate chips or even chopped pecans is a great way to add extra texture and flavor.
What should I do if the batter is too thick?
If the batter seems too thick to pour, you can add a tiny splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Why is salt included in a sweet recipe?
One teaspoon of salt is included to enhance the overall flavors of the pumpkin and spices.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
You can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat, but note that the pancakes may be denser.
Is it necessary to grease the griddle?
Even with a non-stick surface, lightly greasing with oil or cooking spray helps ensure a perfect golden-brown finish.
How much batter should I use for each pancake?
Using about 1/3 cup of batter per pancake produces a good size that is easy to flip.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can use a granulated sugar substitute, though it may slightly alter the browning and texture.
What makes these pancakes airy?
The combination of 4 teaspoons of baking powder and 4 beaten eggs creates a significant amount of lift and airiness.
Are these pancakes quick to prepare?
Yes, they are relatively quick and easy, making them ideal for busy mornings.
Can I add nutmeg or ginger to the batter?
While the recipe specifies cinnamon, you can certainly add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to increase the spice profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
How do I reheat frozen pancakes?
You can reheat them in a toaster, microwave, or in a 350 degree oven until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of oil for greasing?
Yes, any neutral cooking oil or even a small amount of butter will work for greasing the skillet.
Why do I need to whisk dry ingredients first?
Whisking the dry ingredients ensures the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed, preventing pockets of salt or leavening agent.