The moment the first chill of fall graces the air, my thoughts drift to cozy breakfasts filled with the warmth of rich spices. That’s when I whip out my favorite fall recipe: Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes. These fluffy delights are a comforting hug on your plate, infused with aromatic pumpkin pie spice and an unexpected twist—the addition of creamy pudding mix.
Whipping up a batch takes a mere 35 minutes, transforming an ordinary morning into a memorable feast. Each pancake boasts a tender texture and a cozy flavor, perfect for indulging yourself or impressing guests at brunch. Topped with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream, these pancakes become a festive centerpiece that captures the essence of the season. So, grab your skillet and let’s create a breakfast that not only satiates your cravings but also captures the spirit of fall!
Why are Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes irresistible?
Comforting, cozy flavors: The combination of pumpkin pie spice and pudding creates a warm hug for your taste buds.
Effortless preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, it’s a quick way to elevate your morning routine.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Perfect for family breakfasts or impressing brunch guests, they’re a guaranteed hit!
Versatile toppings: Enjoy them with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for a customized treat.
Perfectly fluffy texture: The addition of pudding ensures each pancake is light, moist, and absolutely delightful!
Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes Ingredients
• Gather these key ingredients to create your delicious pancakes infused with seasonal flavors!
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pancakes; whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; feel free to substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffy pancakes; always check its freshness for optimal results.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Gives these pancakes their signature seasonal flavor; cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can also work in a pinch.
- Salt – A little dash enhances the overall flavor of the batter.
- Milk – Adds moisture and helps bind ingredients; switch to almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and the rich, comforting pumpkin flavor; canned pumpkin saves time, while fresh requires cooking and pureeing.
- Vanilla Pudding Mix (instant) – Contributes to the fluffiness and binds the batter together; omit if you need a gluten-free option, but be mindful of texture changes.
- Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan twist.
- Melted Butter – Adds richness and buttery flavor; for a lighter variation, choose vegetable oil instead.
Serving Suggestions
- Maple Syrup – The classic sweet drizzle to enhance the pancakes’ flavor.
- Whipped Cream – A delightful topping for extra creaminess; consider adding a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for that fall flair.
- Cinnamon – Dust lightly on top for an aromatic touch that ties everything together.
These Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes are sure to be a hit at your breakfast table, providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined. This ensures evenly distributed flavors in your pancakes.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla pudding mix, egg, and melted butter until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful, fluffy texture.
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Incorporate Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and will help keep your pancakes fluffy.
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Prepare Cooking Surface: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring perfect, golden pancakes.
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Pour and Cook: For each pancake, pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges appear set (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side (about 2 more minutes).
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Repeat: Continue cooking pancakes with the remaining batter, adjusting the heat if necessary to avoid burning. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the delicious aroma of pumpkin spice!
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Serve Warm: Enjoy these delightful pancakes topped with maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
Optional: Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes—aim for a few lumps in the batter.
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Fresh Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal fluffiness. Test it by dropping it in water; if it bubbles, it’s good to go!
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Adjust Cooking Heat: If pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat. This ensures they cook through without burning.
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Perfect Portioning: Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup for consistent pancake sizes. Consistency helps with even cooking and presentation.
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Keep It Warm: Place finished pancakes in a preheated oven (200°F) to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest of the batter.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra flavor and texture in your pumpkin spice pudding pancakes!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes?
Pair your warming, spiced pancakes with delightful sides that enhance their rich flavors and cozy essence!
- Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pancakes, adding a satisfying contrast.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of apples, pears, and berries provides a refreshing burst of color and natural sweetness alongside the pancakes.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spiced flavors of chai complement the pumpkin spice deliciously, creating a heartwarming drink pairing.
- Maple Pecan Granola: For an added crunch, sprinkle on some granola. The nuttiness and sweetness harmonize beautifully with each bite.
- Cream Cheese Spread: A whipped cream cheese spread adds a rich and creamy touch, enhancing the pancakes while balancing their sweetness.
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole: For an indulgent brunch spread, serve alongside a warm cinnamon roll casserole that will have everyone asking for more!
Gather these delightful accompaniments to elevate your breakfast experience, making your Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes the star of the show!
Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these pancakes to suit your taste buds!
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Chocolate Chip: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet and decadent twist. The melted chocolate adds an indulgent richness.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture and a delightful crunch. Nuts provide a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute almond milk and vegetable oil for a completely dairy-free version, allowing everyone to enjoy these cozy pancakes. They’ll remain just as fluffy and flavorful!
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Spice It Up: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne or a dash of ginger to the batter for that warm, spicy finish. It adds an exciting twist that balances the sweetness.
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Pumpkin Cream Cheese: Swirl a dollop of sweetened cream cheese into the batter just before cooking for a creamy surprise. This luscious addition takes the pancakes to a new level of indulgence.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Combine a bit of brown sugar and cinnamon, swirl it into half the batter before cooking, creating a sweet cinnamon ribbon in each pancake. It’s like having cinnamon rolls for breakfast!
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Coconut Bliss: Fold in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that complements the spices perfectly. The coconut adds a lovely chewiness and flavor boost.
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Berry Boost: Top your pancakes with fresh berries or mix them into the batter for a fruity contrast to the warm pancake spices. Berries add a refreshing pop and brightness to each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped in advance to save you time! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt) up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container. Additionally, the wet ingredients (milk, pumpkin puree, pudding mix, egg, and melted butter) can be combined and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply whisk the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and cook as directed. This approach not only maintains the cozy flavors and fluffy texture but also allows you to enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes
Fridge: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh for breakfast or snacks.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat pancakes in the toaster or microwave. For the toaster, toast on a low setting until warm; in the microwave, heat on medium for about 20-30 seconds.
Enjoy Anytime: With proper storage, your Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes can be enjoyed any time of the day, bringing fall flavors back to your table!
Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect pumpkin for my pancakes?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for canned varieties labeled 100% pumpkin without additives. If using fresh pumpkin, choose a small sugar pumpkin and bake it until tender, then scoop and puree it until smooth. A ripe pumpkin should feel heavy and have a firm, unblemished skin.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes?
You can store your pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a toaster or microwave works well. Simply toast them on a low setting or heat in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm. Enjoy them like fresh!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes?
Yes, you can! Place your pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat them thoroughly in a toaster or microwave before enjoying!
What if my pancakes turn out too dense?
If your pancakes are dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined and enjoy those lumps! Additionally, make sure your baking powder is fresh—perform a quick water test to see if it bubbles; if it does, it’s good to use!
Are these pancakes safe for my allergies?
Great question! If you have specific allergies, you can adapt the Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes accordingly. Substitute almond milk for dairy-free needs, use a flax egg for vegan options, and select gluten-free flour to make them gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Can I use other spices instead of pumpkin pie spice?
Very much so! If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Combine these spices in a 1:1 ratio until you achieve that warm, spiced flavor you love. This flexibility allows you to customize the pancakes to your preference!
Pumpkin Spice Pudding Pancakes: Your Cozy Fall Breakfast Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla pudding mix, egg, and melted butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don't overmix!
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Continue cooking pancakes with the remaining batter.
- Serve warm topped with maple syrup, whipped cream, and cinnamon.