Gingerbread pancakes bring all the warm holiday flavors you love into a comforting breakfast that feels like a winter treat from the very first bite. Soft, fluffy, and rich with spices, these pancakes turn an ordinary morning into something festive. The blend of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates that unmistakable gingerbread aroma that fills the kitchen as soon as the batter hits the warm pan. A hint of molasses ties everything together, giving the pancakes depth, sweetness, and a beautiful golden color.
What makes gingerbread pancakes so delightful is their balance of warmth and softness. The edges cook to a gentle crisp while the center stays tender and almost cake-like. They pair perfectly with a drizzle of maple syrup, but you can also lean into the season by adding whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a spoonful of raspberry compote. Fresh orange zest on top brings a bright, citrusy contrast that complements the spice beautifully.
These pancakes fit seamlessly into a cozy December morning, a relaxed holiday brunch, or a cheerful breakfast for visiting family. They also reheat well, so you can easily make a batch ahead of time. Warm them in a skillet or toaster oven and they taste just as fresh as when they were made. If you want to add texture, mix in chopped or candied pecans or walnuts. For something extra comforting, serve them with a pat of cinnamon butter that melts slowly over the warm stack.
Gingerbread pancakes are an easy way to bring nostalgic holiday flavor to the table without any fuss. They feel special but come together quickly, making them ideal for busy winter mornings when you still want something homemade and festive. The combination of spices, sweetness, and soft texture captures everything people love about the season. Light candles, pour a mug of hot chocolate or coffee, and let these pancakes set the tone for a slow, cozy start to the day.
Serve gingerbread pancakes with warm apple compote, vanilla yogurt, or a simple fruit salad with oranges and pomegranate. For a beverage, pair them with a chai latte, dark roast coffee, or hot apple cider for a comforting winter match.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter, buttermilk, molasses, and egg.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease if necessary.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your choice of toppings such as maple syrup or whipped cream.
Nutrition
Not my favorite, missed the original pancake taste. I think they are too spicy.
Gingerbread pancakes? What a weird combo. I’ll just stick to regular pancakes, thanks.
Pancakes are great! Fluffy and delicious!
I totally agree! Fluffy pancakes are the best! Can’t wait to make these gingerbread ones! 🥞
These pancakes were amazing! I added chocolate chips and my kids loved them!
So good! Perfect for the holidays! I had them with maple syrup and whipped cream, yum.
I accidentally used regular milk instead of buttermilk and they still turned out alright.
That’s great to hear! Pancakes can be pretty forgiving. What toppings did you use?
I don’t get why everyone loves this recipe. The ginger was overpowering and they were too thick.