Introduction
As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of pumpkin spice to usher in the fall season. These Pumpkin Spice Pancake Bites are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of autumn while providing a quick and delightful breakfast option for busy mornings or lazy weekends alike. With the kid-friendly, bite-sized goodness, these mini pancakes are not only adorable but also packed with the rich taste of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla, ensuring each bite is a cozy, flavorful experience. Whether enjoyed on their own or drizzled with maple syrup, topped with a dollop of whipped cream, or accompanied by a side of fresh fruit, these pancake bites are sure to become a seasonal favorite for the whole family. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to whip up a batch of these delicious treats that will have everyone smiling at the breakfast table this fall!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: Maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
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- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
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- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, canned pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until everything is just combined (a few lumps are okay!).
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- Preheat your mini muffin tin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease each cup with a bit of melted butter.
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- Once preheated, fill each muffin cup with about 2 tablespoons of pancake batter, ensuring not to overfill to allow room for rising.
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- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the pancake bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before gently removing the pancake bites from the muffin tin.
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- Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 24 bites
Key Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the pancakes, providing structure.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: To help the pancake bites rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Adds warm, aromatic flavors synonymous with fall.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pancakes.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, adding moisture and a rich, autumnal taste.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: For a touch of sweetness and caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: To achieve the desired batter consistency; can use dairy or non-dairy milk based on preference.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the mixture together and contributes to a fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and moisture to the pancake bites.
- Optional toppings: Maple syrup, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for serving.
Baking Process
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have all your ingredients ready before starting. You’ll need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for added texture
2. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of your pancake bites.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This step is crucial for evenly distributed flavor and ensuring your pancake bites rise perfectly.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a wonderful depth of flavor to your pancake bites.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Carefully pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, now is the time to fold them in.
6. Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a small scoop or spoon, fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with the pancake batter. This allows room for them to rise while baking.
7. Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pancake bites are puffed up and lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating they are cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Gently run a butter knife around the edges of the bites to help them release from the pan. Turn the tin upside down to pop them out onto a wire rack.
Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent fall breakfast delight. Enjoy your pumpkin spice pancake bites!
Storage
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. They’re perfect for a quick grab-and-go breakfast during busy autumn mornings!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Pumpkin Spice Pancake Bites and make your fall breakfast even more delightful, consider the following serving suggestions:
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic pairing, drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancake bites for a sweet and rich flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: Top each pancake bite with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra seasonal touch.
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Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice.
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Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of sliced apples, bananas, or pears. The natural sweetness and freshness will balance the warm spices.
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Yogurt or Greek Yogurt: A spoonful of vanilla or pumpkin-flavored yogurt not only adds creaminess but also makes for a deliciously nutritious addition.
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Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, scatter mini chocolate chips on top or fold them into the batter before cooking.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Mix cinnamon with powdered sugar and dust it lightly over the pancake bites for an aromatic finish.
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Apple Butter or Pumpkin Butter: Instead of syrup, serve with a scoop of apple butter or pumpkin butter for an autumn-inspired alternative.
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Ice Cream or Gelato: For a special treat, serve warm pancake bites with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce.
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Coffee or Spiced Tea: Pair your pancake bites with a warm cup of coffee, chai, or spiced tea to round out the fall theme.
With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Spice Pancake Bites will not only be a delicious breakfast, but also a delightful centerpiece for a cozy fall gathering! Enjoy!
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Spice Pancake Bites are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall in a delightful and convenient format. Not only are they light, fluffy, and bursting with warm spices, but they also bring the nostalgic essence of autumn right to your breakfast table. Whether you serve them drizzled with maple syrup, topped with whipped cream, or sprinkled with powdered sugar, these pancake bites are sure to impress your family and friends.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this seasonal treat and enjoy the cozy vibes of fall in every bite. Perfect for lazy weekend mornings or as a fun breakfast for gatherings, these Pumpkin Spice Pancake Bites are a must-try for all pancake lovers. So grab your mixing bowls and embrace the spirit of the season—you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!
