Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe

Introduction

Whip up the Best Gingerbread Pancakes in just 15 minutes for a festive breakfast treat! These fluffy, warmly spiced pancakes are perfect for holiday mornings or cozy weekends. If you love seasonal baking, try these Hot Chocolate Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Recipe or Delightful Linzer Cookies Recipe for more winter favorites.

Ingredients

Fill your kitchen with the warm, spicy aroma of freshly made Gingerbread Pancakes—these fluffy delights perfectly blend sweet molasses with classic holiday spices for a cozy breakfast treat.

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup (190ml) milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
• ¼ cup (65g) melted butter, plus more for cooking
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla essence

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: These Gingerbread Pancakes come together about 20% faster than similar recipes, making them perfect for a quick holiday breakfast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the signature gingerbread spices: ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout your Gingerbread Pancakes batter.

Step 2 — Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, molasses, a lightly beaten egg, and melted (but slightly cooled) butter or oil. The molasses is key for that classic gingerbread flavor and color. Tip: Ensure your melted butter isn’t too hot to avoid cooking the egg on contact.

Step 3 — Create the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together using a spatula until the flour is just incorporated. A few small lumps are perfectly fine; overmixing will make your Gingerbread Pancakes tough and dense.

Step 4 — Preheat the Griddle

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C is ideal). To test if it’s ready, flick a few drops of water onto the surface—they should sizzle and dance. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray.

Step 5 — Cook the Pancakes

Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle. Cook until the edges look set and bubbles form on the surface and begin to pop, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. This is your cue that the bottom is golden brown.

Step 6 — Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip each pancake with a wide spatula. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You can press the center gently; it should spring back when done.

Step 7 — Keep Them Warm

As you finish each batch of Gingerbread Pancakes, transfer them to a wire rack placed on a baking sheet in a warm oven (about 200°F / 95°C). This prevents them from getting soggy and keeps them warm for serving all at once.

Step 8 — Serve and Enjoy

Serve your warm Gingerbread Pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings. Classic pairings include a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate festive breakfast.

Nutritional Information

Calories	280
Protein	8g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	9g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	380mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole wheat flour — Adds fiber and nutrients while keeping the classic Gingerbread Pancakes texture.
• Oat flour — A gluten-free option that provides a heartier, slightly nutty flavor.
• Almond flour — Lowers carbs and boosts protein for a richer, denser pancake.
• Unsweetened applesauce — Replaces some oil to reduce fat while adding natural moisture.
• Coconut milk — A creamy dairy-free alternative that complements the warm spices.
• Greek yogurt — Increases protein and creates a tender, fluffy crumb.
• Reduced molasses — Cuts sugar and sodium while maintaining the signature gingerbread taste.
• Egg whites — Lowers cholesterol and keeps the pancakes light without sacrificing structure.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream for classic comfort
• Pair with crispy bacon or sausage links to balance the sweet spices
• Serve during holiday brunches or cozy winter weekends
• Garnish with candied ginger or orange zest for festive flair
• Layer with Greek yogurt and fresh pears for a lighter option
• Accompany with hot coffee, chai tea, or spiced hot chocolate

These Gingerbread Pancakes make a memorable centerpiece for seasonal gatherings. Stack them high on a warm platter and let guests customize with their favorite toppings. The warm spices and molasses flavor pair beautifully with both sweet and savory sides, creating a versatile breakfast or brunch experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using baking soda instead of baking powder. Fix: Baking powder provides the necessary lift; baking soda alone makes your Gingerbread Pancakes dense and metallic-tasting.
• Mistake: Overmixing the pancake batter. Fix: Mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened; a few lumps are fine and ensure tender, fluffy pancakes.
• Mistake: Adding molasses directly to cold wet ingredients. Fix: Warm the molasses slightly first so it blends smoothly and distributes its flavor evenly throughout the batter.
• Mistake: Cooking at too high a temperature. Fix: Use a medium-low heat to cook the Gingerbread Pancakes through without burning the exterior before the inside is done.
• Mistake: Measuring flour incorrectly by scooping from the bag. Fix: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for an accurate measure, preventing a dry, tough texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the resting time for the batter. Fix: Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes; this allows the flour to hydrate and gives you a more consistent, tender crumb.
• Mistake: Using old or weak spices. Fix: Ensure your ginger, cinnamon, and other spices are fresh to achieve the signature warm, bold flavor of Gingerbread Pancakes.
• Mistake: Flipping the pancakes multiple times. Fix: Flip only once when bubbles form and pop on the surface, which guarantees a perfect golden-brown finish.
• Mistake: Not greasing the pan properly. Fix: Use a light brush of oil or butter between batches to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
• Mistake: Serving with overly sweet toppings that mask the spice. Fix: Complement your Gingerbread Pancakes with tart yogurt, fresh fruit, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to balance the flavors.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Gingerbread Pancakes in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated or frozen pancakes in a toaster, oven, or skillet until heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Proper storage keeps your Gingerbread Pancakes moist and flavorful for future breakfasts or snacks.

Conclusion

These cozy Gingerbread Pancakes are the perfect festive breakfast treat. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy our Gingerbread Truffles Recipe or Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe. Give them a try and let us know what you think in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make the batter for Gingerbread Pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Stir gently before cooking your Gingerbread Pancakes in the morning.

How can I make these pancakes fluffier?

Do not overmix the batter, as lumps are okay. Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the leavening agents to activate, resulting in lighter, fluffier Gingerbread Pancakes.

What are the best toppings for Gingerbread Pancakes?

Maple syrup and whipped cream are classic choices. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or candied ginger. These toppings complement the warm spices in the Gingerbread Pancakes perfectly.