Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe for the Coziest Holiday Breakfast

If you’re looking for a warm, festive breakfast that tastes like the holidays, Gingerbread Pancakes are the answer. These golden, fluffy pancakes are infused with cinnamon, ginger, and rich molasses—bringing all the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread cookies into a soft, stackable form. Whether you’re prepping for Christmas morning, a seasonal brunch, or simply craving something cozy, this easy recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t miss our festive brie with honey and nuts if you’re planning a holiday breakfast spread!

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Why Gingerbread Pancakes Are a Must-Try This Season

A festive twist on classic buttermilk pancakes

Gingerbread pancakes blend the beloved fluffiness of traditional buttermilk pancakes with the warm, comforting spices that define holiday baking. Think of them as the morning version of your favorite holiday treat.

Warm spices that wake up your tastebuds

Cinnamon and ginger bring a bold but balanced flavor, while molasses adds richness and depth. It’s a unique flavor profile that feels both indulgent and seasonal—perfect with a steaming cup of coffee or cider.

Perfect for Christmas morning or cozy weekends

There’s something special about sitting down to a plate of these pancakes while the tree lights twinkle. But they’re not just for the holidays—this recipe is a hit all winter long. You can even make the batter the night before, so you’re ready for breakfast in a snap.

Discover great ideas like Christmas baked salmon for a festive lunch after your pancake breakfast.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Pancakes

Key pantry staples for flavor and texture

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these pancakes to life:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
All-purpose flour	1½ cups	Can sub whole wheat or gluten-free 1:1
Granulated sugar	¼ cup	Balances the strong molasses
Baking powder	3½ tsp	Adds fluffiness
Ground cinnamon	1 tsp	Warm spice #1
Ground ginger	½ tsp	Warm spice #2
Kosher salt	½ tsp	Enhances flavor
Buttermilk	1⅓ cups	Adds tang and activates baking powder
Large egg	1	Room temp works best
Unsalted butter	3 tbsp, melted	Adds moisture
Molasses	3 tbsp	Use unsulfured for best flavor
Cooking spray	As needed	For greasing pan or griddle

Looking for inspiration? Try pumpkin cream cheese muffins as a sweet breakfast side!

Optional add-ins and variations to try

Want to personalize your pancakes?

• Add mini chocolate chips for a gingerbread-cookie-meets-chocolate-chip-cookie effect
• Mix in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for texture
• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the batter while cooking for extra caramelization

You can also mix a bit of vanilla extract or swap molasses for maple syrup if you want a milder flavor.

Ingredient swaps for dietary needs

You can make these pancakes work for most diets:

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk + 1 tsp vinegar as a buttermilk sub
• Gluten-free? Opt for a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose blend
• Egg-free? Replace with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)

Check out super ginger molasses cookies if you’re craving even more gingerbread flavor later in the day.

How to Make Gingerbread Pancakes (Step-by-Step Guide)

Mixing the perfect gingerbread batter

Start by whisking together your dry ingredients in one large bowl—flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and molasses. The secret to fluffy pancakes lies in not overmixing. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Lumps are okay! If the batter feels too thick, add a splash more buttermilk.

Check out cranberry orange preserves as a tangy homemade spread option!

Cooking tips for fluffy, golden pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat—about 300°F if you’re using an electric griddle. Lightly grease the surface with cooking spray or butter. Pour about ⅓ cup of batter per pancake and spread it slightly to form a round, 4-inch circle.

Let the pancake cook undisturbed until bubbles form and begin to pop—this usually takes 3-4 minutes. Flip gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Avoid pressing down on the pancakes while they cook, as that flattens the fluffiness.

Wipe the pan clean between batches for evenly browned pancakes.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Overmixing the batter: This makes pancakes dense and chewy instead of light and fluffy
• Cooking at too high heat: The outside will burn before the inside cooks through
• Flipping too early: Wait for bubbles to pop and edges to look set
• Using cold ingredients: Let eggs and buttermilk come to room temp for even mixing

Don’t miss our Christmas fudge cake dessert recipe for a decadent finish to your festive meal!

Best Toppings to Serve With Gingerbread Pancakes

Classic and creative toppings to enhance flavor

While maple syrup is a traditional favorite, gingerbread pancakes shine even brighter with some holiday-inspired extras:

• Whipped cream
• Spiced or whipped gingerbread butter
• Caramel sauce or apple cider caramel
• Cream cheese glaze (just like on cinnamon rolls)

For even more festive flair, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top right before serving.

Pairing syrups, spreads, and fruits

Balance the warmth of spices with something sweet or tart:

• Banana slices or apple sautéed in cinnamon butter
• Orange zest or a spoonful of cranberry preserves
• Chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy bite
• Molasses drizzle for an extra flavor boost

Looking for inspiration? Try apple crisp dessert to complement your brunch with fall flavors.

Festive sides to complete the meal

Want to turn your breakfast into a full holiday brunch?

• Add a side of spiced sausage links or bacon
• Serve with eggnog or spiced coffee
• Include a fruit salad with cinnamon yogurt dressing

Discover great ideas like wild rice salad for a savory, balanced meal if serving brunch.

How to Store and Reheat Gingerbread Pancakes

Make-ahead tips for busy mornings

Short on time? You can make the batter the night before and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before using. Or better yet, cook the pancakes ahead of time and reheat as needed.

Fridge vs. freezer: what works best

Let leftover pancakes cool completely. Then:

• In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• In the freezer: Place pancakes in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, stack with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag. Good for up to 2 months.

Reheating without drying them out

Here’s how to bring them back to life:

Method	Instructions
Microwave	Wrap in a damp paper towel, heat for 20-30 sec per pancake
Oven	350°F, cover with foil, bake for 8-10 mins
Toaster	Ideal for crisp edges, about 2-3 mins

Check out easy creamy cheesy potato bake recipe to round out your cozy weekend menu!

FAQs About Gingerbread Pancakes

Conclusion: Add Gingerbread Pancakes to Your Holiday Recipe Rotation

Gingerbread Pancakes bring the warmth of the season to your breakfast table with their rich molasses, cozy spices, and soft, fluffy texture. Whether served with classic maple syrup or decked out in festive toppings, they’re bound to be a holiday favorite. Don’t wait for Christmas morning—these pancakes deserve a spot in your regular winter recipe lineup.

Don’t miss our banana nut pancakes recipe if you’re craving more creative pancake twists!

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