Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Syrup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm stack of pancakes on a cozy morning, and these gingerbread pancakes with maple syrup take that comfort to the next level. Infused with classic gingerbread spices and sweetened with rich molasses, these pancakes capture the nostalgic flavors of the holidays while remaining perfect for any chilly morning throughout the year.

Soft, fluffy, and gently spiced, gingerbread pancakes strike a beautiful balance between sweetness and warmth. Paired with real maple syrup, they become an irresistible breakfast that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether served for a festive weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a slow winter morning, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table.

Unlike overly sweet pancakes, this version relies on spice and molasses for depth rather than sugar alone. The result is a pancake that feels cozy, aromatic, and satisfying without being heavy.

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Why Gingerbread Pancakes Are So Special

Gingerbread flavors are deeply nostalgic. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves instantly evokes warmth and comfort. When those spices are folded into pancake batter, they transform a simple breakfast into something memorable.

Here’s why gingerbread pancakes deserve a spot in your breakfast rotation:

• Warm spices create cozy flavor
• Molasses adds richness without overpowering
• Perfect for holidays and winter mornings
• Easy enough for everyday breakfasts
• Pairs beautifully with maple syrup and butter

These pancakes feel festive without requiring complicated techniques or special equipment.

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The Role of Molasses in Gingerbread Pancakes

Molasses is the heart of gingerbread flavor. It adds deep sweetness with subtle bitterness that balances the spices beautifully. In pancakes, molasses also contributes moisture and color, giving the pancakes their signature warm brown hue.

Use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor. Blackstrap molasses is too strong for this recipe and can overpower the delicate balance of spices.

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Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Milk
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Molasses
• Vanilla extract
• Pure maple syrup (for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, eggs, melted butter, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Let batter rest for 5 minutes to allow pancakes to become fluffier.
5. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
6. Pour batter onto skillet using a measuring cup.
7. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
9. Serve warm with butter and maple syrup.

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Texture Tips for Perfect Pancakes

• Avoid overmixing to keep pancakes light and fluffy
• Let batter rest briefly before cooking
• Cook on medium heat to prevent burning
• Flip only once for the best rise

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Spice Balance Matters

The key to great gingerbread pancakes is balance. Ginger provides warmth, cinnamon adds sweetness, nutmeg brings depth, and cloves add subtle spice. Together, they create a layered flavor that’s comforting rather than overpowering.

You can adjust spice levels to taste, but keeping them balanced ensures classic gingerbread flavor.

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Variations to Try

• Extra Fluffy: Separate eggs and fold in whipped egg whites
• Chocolate Chip Gingerbread Pancakes: Add mini chocolate chips
• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and oil

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Serving Suggestions

These pancakes shine with simple toppings:

• Warm maple syrup
• Soft butter
• Whipped cream
• Candied pecans or walnuts
• Orange zest or cranberry compote

For a festive brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or fruit salad.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze pancakes up to 2 months
• Reheat: Toast or warm in skillet for best texture

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Gingerbread Flavors Beyond the Holidays

Although gingerbread is often associated with the holidays, these pancakes prove that warm spices belong on the breakfast table all winter long. Their comforting aroma and cozy flavor make them perfect for snowy mornings, relaxed weekends, or anytime you crave something special.

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Final Thoughts

These gingerbread pancakes with maple syrup are fluffy, warmly spiced, and deeply comforting. Easy enough for everyday breakfasts yet special enough for festive mornings, they bring classic gingerbread flavor into a simple, satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Once you make them, they’ll quickly become a cold-weather breakfast favorite.