Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful recipe that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin with the sweetness of a cream cheese glaze. This dish is perfect for breakfast on chilly mornings, lazy weekends, or even as a special treat during the fall season. It’s not just about the taste; it’s also about the experience of enjoying fluffy pancakes with a beautiful swirl of cinnamon and a rich glaze.
The comforting aroma of spices fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to come and enjoy a meal together. It’s an easy way to impress your family or friends, making them feel loved and cared for. Plus, this recipe is versatile; whether you are a pumpkin enthusiast or just looking for a new pancake variation, everyone will adore these delicious pancakes.
HOW TO MAKE Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze
Ingredients
- For the Pancakes:
- 2 cups preferred pancake batter with half of oil/butter replaced with pumpkin puree, OR from scratch:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 Tablespoons pumpkin puree
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 Tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 2 Tablespoons cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Milk (optional, to thin out)
DIRECTIONS
- Start out by making the cinnamon swirl mixture. Melt the butter in a pan over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined and smooth. Once mixed, set aside to cool.
- Heat your pancake skillet over medium heat. Add oil or nonstick spray if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Make your pancake batter. In a large bowl, combine all the pancake ingredients with a wooden spoon. Mix until smooth, but don’t over-mix.
- Scoop a 1/3 to 1/2 cup portion of the batter onto the skillet. Let the pancake cook for a couple of minutes until small bubbles form on the surface.
- While the pancake cooks, take the cinnamon swirl mixture and place it into a piping bag or a plastic bag. Cut a small hole in one corner if using a plastic bag.
- When the pancake is almost fully cooked on one side, squeeze the cinnamon swirl mixture in a spiral pattern on top of the pancake. Allow it to set for at least one minute before flipping.
- Flip the pancake carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, about two more minutes.
- Repeat the process for the rest of the pancakes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a small bowl, mix the room temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract. If the glaze is too thick, add a little milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the pancakes hot, drizzling the cream cheese glaze over them.
HOW TO SERVE Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze
These pancakes taste best when served hot right off the skillet. Stack them high on a plate and generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon or even chopped nuts for added crunch. For a festive touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. Serve with warm maple syrup on the side for those who want an extra sweetness boost.
Consider pairing these delightful pancakes with a hot cup of fresh coffee or a warm spiced apple cider. The warmth of the drink complements the rich flavors of the pancakes perfectly.
HOW TO STORE Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store the pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess. For longer storage, you can freeze the pancakes. Place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to keep them from sticking together, and then wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
To reheat, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds or until warm. You can also heat them on a skillet for a couple of minutes on each side. If the cream cheese glaze is too thick after refrigerating, stir in a little milk to thin it out before drizzling.
TIPS TO MAKE Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Measure Ingredients Properly: For best results, ensure that you correctly measure your ingredients. This will help in achieving the right texture and flavor of pancakes.
- Don’t Over-Mix the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to tough pancakes. Stir just until combined for fluffy results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and spices yield the best flavors. Check expiration dates, especially on baking powder and spices, for optimal results.
- Cook on Medium Heat: If your skillet is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains raw. Medium heat maintains even cooking.
- Piping Bag for Cinnamon Swirl: Using a piping bag helps in creating a beautiful design. If you don’t have one, any plastic bag with a snipped corner will work.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to personalize this recipe by incorporating different flavors or ingredients. Here are some fun variations:
- Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Add chocolate chips to the pancake batter for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Pancakes: Add crushed walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for gluten-sensitive or celiac individuals.
- Sweet Spices: For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the pancake batter.
- Fruit Toppings: Top the pancakes with fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, or blueberries alongside the cream cheese glaze.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pancake mix for this recipe?
Yes! Using a store-bought pancake mix is a great shortcut. Just be sure to follow the instructions for the batter and substitute half of the oil or butter with pumpkin puree.
How do I fix pancakes that are too thick?
If your pancake batter seems too thick, simply add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency. This will help make the pancakes lighter and fluffier.
Can I make the cream cheese glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cream cheese glaze ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to use, stir well and thin out with a little milk if necessary.
How do I adjust the spices for a more intense flavor?
Feel free to adjust the spices in this recipe according to your taste. If you love cinnamon, add more than the recipe calls for. You can also try increasing the amount of pumpkin spice or adding other spices to make the flavor more pronounced.