Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Who can resist a sky-high stack of fluffy, moist, tender pancakes?! These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes are easy to make, freezer-friendly, and totally irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy fall treat, these pancakes combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with the delightful sweetness of chocolate chips. Enjoy them with maple syrup or your favorite toppings for a delicious morning meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious pancakes ready in no time.
• Flavorful combination: The blend of pumpkin and chocolate creates a unique and satisfying taste experience.
• Versatile serving options: Top these pancakes with syrup, yogurt, or fruit for added flavor and nutrition.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a large batch and freeze leftovers for a quick breakfast option on busy mornings.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike love the sweet chocolate chips mixed into the spiced pumpkin batter.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes effortlessly, gather the following tools and equipment. Having the right tools will ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick griddle or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick griddle or skillet: Ensures easy flipping of pancakes without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Required for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps to blend wet ingredients smoothly for an even batter.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups pancake mix
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp. cloves

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup 100% canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/4 cup whole milk

Add-ins

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the pancake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, brown sugar, and milk until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until moistened; avoid over-mixing.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the mini chocolate chips carefully so they are evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 5: Prepare Griddle

Grease your nonstick griddle with baking spray. Heat it over medium heat.

Step 6: Cook Pancakes

Pour batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the hot griddle. Cook until bubbles form on top and the bottoms are golden brown—around 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking

Flip the pancakes carefully using a spatula. Cook until both sides are golden brown—about another 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm with your choice of toppings like additional chocolate chips, syrup, Greek yogurt, or whipped cream. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Serving Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes can be as delightful as making them. These pancakes pair well with a variety of toppings, allowing you to customize each bite to your liking.

Toppings and Syrups

• Maple Syrup: The classic choice that adds sweetness and complements the pumpkin flavor.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream creates a light and airy finish.
• Greek Yogurt: For a tangy twist, add Greek yogurt for creaminess and protein.
• Peanut Butter: Spread on top for a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate chips.

Fruits and Nuts

• Banana Slices: Fresh bananas add a fruity touch that enhances the pancake experience.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans bring a crunchy texture to every bite.
• Berries: Fresh strawberries or blueberries offer a burst of freshness and color.

Additional Treats

• Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips on top for an indulgent treat.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and pairs well with the spices.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

To make the best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes, consider these helpful tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking mix and spices are fresh for the best flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter: Gently stir until just combined; this keeps your pancakes light and airy.
• Preheat your griddle properly: A hot griddle ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Add chocolate chips last: Folding them in gently prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the batter.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes can create a balanced breakfast experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs add protein and complement the sweetness of pancakes.
2. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links provide a hearty contrast to sweet pancakes.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers vibrant flavors and balances richness.
4. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon is a delicious pairing with fluffy pancakes.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola creates a nutritious side that’s also pleasing to the eye.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl filled with fruits is a healthy choice that adds variety to your meal.
7. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toast provides healthy fats and bright flavors alongside pancakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve pancake perfection.

• Using stale pancake mix: Always check the expiration date on your pancake mix. Stale ingredients can affect the fluffiness of your pancakes.
• Overmixing the batter: Stir just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes, not fluffy ones.
• Skipping the greasing step: Even nonstick griddles need a bit of grease. Skipping this step can cause pancakes to stick and break.
• Not preheating properly: Ensure your griddle is hot before pouring in the batter. This helps create that beautiful golden color and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring cooking times: Keep an eye on your pancakes while they cook. Cooking them too long or too short will affect both texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

• Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pancakes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pancakes on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin puree if you have it! Just make sure it’s well-pureed and not overly watery.

How do I make gluten-free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes?

Substitute regular pancake mix with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What toppings pair well with Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes?

Consider serving them with whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate chips, or even yogurt for added flavor!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans would add great texture and flavor. Feel free to get creative!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or add-ins like nuts or spices. Their fluffy texture combined with the rich chocolate makes them a breakfast favorite that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try, and you won’t be disappointed!