These Pumpkin Apple Pancakes are fluffy delights that mix the warm flavors of pumpkin and the sweetness of apples. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy brunch!
I love how these pancakes are like a hug on a plate! Top them with maple syrup or whipped cream, and you’ll be smiling with every bite. Who needs a fancy restaurant? 🥞🍁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your pancakes, giving them structure. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free flour blend, which works well in pancakes.
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but you can also make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. Just ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling!
Apples: I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness that balances the sweetness of the pancakes. If you prefer sweeter pancakes, Fuji or Honeycrisp apples are great choices!
Milk: Whole or 2% milk keeps the pancakes moist. For a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk will work beautifully.
Spices: The spices really elevate the flavor. If you don’t have ground cloves, just leave them out. You can experiment with pumpkin pie spice for convenience, too!
How Do You Make Fluffy Pancakes Without Overmixing?
Overmixing the batter can lead to dense pancakes, so be gentle! Here’s how:
- Whisk the dry ingredients together in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, and stir very gently with a spatula only until no dry flour remains—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
- After mixing, fold in the apples with care to avoid breaking them apart.
This technique keeps air in the batter, resulting in lighter, fluffier pancakes.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pancakes Evenly?
To achieve perfectly cooked pancakes, consider these tips:
- Use a non-stick skillet or griddle to prevent sticking.
- Heat the pan over medium heat, and brush lightly with melted butter—this helps with browning.
- Keep an eye on the bubbles forming on the surface before flipping. If they pop and the edges look set, it’s time to turn!
These steps will help you cook your pancakes evenly without burning them. Happy cooking!
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Apple Pancakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely chopped or grated apple (such as Fuji or Granny Smith)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious stack of pumpkin apple pancakes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and optional cloves. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure a uniform flavor in your pancakes.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will give your pancakes moisture and flavor!
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix—just mix until there are some lumps remaining. This keeps your pancakes light and fluffy.
4. Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in your chopped or grated apples. This adds a delightful sweetness and texture to each pancake!
5. Heat Your Skillet:
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush it lightly with melted butter to prevent sticking.
6. Cook the Pancakes:
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges starting to set, around 2-3 minutes. These are signs they’re almost ready to flip!
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pancakes and let them cook for another 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. You can add a bit more butter to the skillet as needed for the remaining pancakes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, stack your pancakes on a plate, and serve them warm. Top with a pat of butter and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall in every bite!
Now you’ve got a delicious stack of pumpkin apple pancakes to share with family and friends. Enjoy your breakfast! 🎃🍏🥞
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! However, the pancakes may be a bit denser. You might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter texture while still adding some whole grain benefits.
Can I Make These Pancakes Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these pancakes vegan, substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), use almond milk or any plant-based milk, and replace the melted butter with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative.
How to Store Leftover Pancakes?
Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave, and they’ll be ready to enjoy again!
Can I Freeze These Pancakes?
Yes! Let the pancakes cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from the freezer in a toaster or microwave!
