Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Butter are a delightful breakfast treat that captures the warm spices and flavors of gingerbread in a fluffy pancake form. Topped with a rich maple butter, these pancakes are perfect for cozy mornings, especially during the holiday season. They are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends!

Ingredients List

For the Gingerbread Pancakes

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Maple Butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• Pinch of salt

Timing

Preparing Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Butter takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Maple Butter

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Chill: Place the maple butter in the refrigerator to firm up slightly while you prepare the pancakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, molasses, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

1. Heat the Griddle: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little butter.
2. Pour Batter: For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle.
3. Cook: Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until golden brown.
4. Repeat: Continue until all the batter is used, keeping the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven if needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Pancakes: Stack the pancakes on plates.
2. Top with Maple Butter: Add a generous dollop of maple butter on top of the warm pancakes.
3. Enjoy: Serve immediately, optionally drizzling with extra maple syrup or adding toppings like whipped cream or chopped nuts.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Butter (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	6g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for an extra treat.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Spice Variations: Adjust the spices to your liking; add cloves or allspice for additional warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Butter pair well with:

• Crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast.
• Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries for added freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the pancakes fluffy.
2. Cooking on Too High Heat: Medium heat is best; too high can burn the pancakes before they cook through.
3. Not Letting the Batter Rest: Allowing the batter to rest for a few minutes can help improve the texture of the pancakes.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Gingerbread Pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave before serving. The maple butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Butter, a festive and delicious breakfast that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Perfect for holiday mornings or any day you want to indulge in something special!

FAQs

Can I make the pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking.

Can I freeze the pancakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked pancakes in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the toaster or microwave when ready to enjoy.

What can I substitute for molasses?

You can use honey or dark corn syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make the maple butter in advance?

Yes! The maple butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.