The Cozy Fall Memory That Started It All
I still remember that crisp October morning when I first made pumpkin spice pancakes from scratch. The kitchen smelled like cinnamon and nutmeg, and the sound of pancakes sizzling on the griddle was pure comfort. It wasn’t a holiday, just a slow Sunday at home with a warm mug of coffee and a craving for something familiar yet festive. I had leftover canned pumpkin and decided to mix it into a basic pancake recipe—what came out was magic. Fluffy, golden, and filled with fall flavor, they became an instant family favorite.
That moment turned into a tradition. Every year, once the leaves started to turn, I’d whip up a fresh batch. I even found ways to tweak the recipe—sometimes adding brown butter, other times folding in chopped pecans. The best part? It doesn’t take much to turn a basic pancake mix into something seasonal and satisfying. If you’re someone who wants to enjoy the taste of fall without spending hours in the kitchen, pumpkin spice pancakes are your go-to. The key is using the right balance of spices and just the right amount of pumpkin purée. (More on that below!)
Just like my Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites, these pancakes blend cozy flavors with an easy process, making them perfect for a fuss-free breakfast or brunch. You’ll also find these pair well with other fall treats like Vegan Pumpkin Sugar Cookies if you’re building out a festive weekend menu.
Table of Contents
Making Pumpkin Spice Pancakes from Mix
How to Add Pumpkin Spice to Pancake Mix
Yes, you can absolutely add pumpkin spice to any boxed pancake mix. For every cup of dry mix, add 1 to 1½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice. This classic blend usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. If your spice rack is well-stocked, you can even mix your own blend:
| Spice | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | ¼ tsp |
| Ginger | ¼ tsp |
| Clove | ⅛ tsp |
Adding the spices to the dry mix ensures even flavor distribution. Stir thoroughly before combining with wet ingredients. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract and a tablespoon of brown sugar for that café-style sweetness.
How Much Pumpkin Purée to Add to Pancake Mix
To make your pancakes extra moist and flavorful, mix in ¼ to ½ cup of canned pumpkin purée per cup of dry pancake mix. It’s important to reduce the liquid slightly—about 2 tablespoons less than the package calls for—to keep the texture fluffy rather than dense. If the batter still feels thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach a pourable consistency.
Avoid using pumpkin pie filling—it’s pre-sweetened and spiced, and can overpower your mix. Stick to plain pumpkin purée for best results. These same flavor notes work beautifully with Healthy Pumpkin Smoothies, which is another breakfast win when you’re short on time.
IHOP Pumpkin Spice Pancakes – Worth the Hype?
Are IHOP Pumpkin Spice Pancakes Actually Good?
Every fall, IHOP brings back its seasonal pumpkin spice pancakes, and for good reason—they’re incredibly popular. But are they actually good? If you enjoy soft, classic diner-style pancakes with a subtle pumpkin flavor, then yes—they’re delicious. The pancakes are warm, fluffy, and have just the right amount of spice. They’re served with whipped topping and sweet syrup, which gives them a dessert-like feel. While they don’t have that “homemade with love” charm, they definitely hit the spot when you’re craving a fall-flavored breakfast away from home.
That said, their flavor leans more toward cinnamon and nutmeg, with less of the rich, earthy pumpkin taste you get in homemade versions. If you’ve tried recipes like Banana Walnut Bread or Moist Sour Cream Coffee Cake, you’ll probably notice IHOP’s version is a little milder and more uniform. But it’s that familiar simplicity that makes them comforting for many.
Does IHOP Still Serve Pumpkin Spice Pancakes?
Yes, but only seasonally. IHOP usually rolls out its pumpkin spice pancakes in early fall—think September through November. The availability can vary depending on location, so it’s smart to check their website or call your local restaurant. They’re often part of a fall menu that includes other autumn-themed dishes.
If you’re hoping for IHOP-style pancakes at home, you can easily replicate the taste by adding pumpkin spice and vanilla to your own batter. Bonus tip: top with maple syrup and whipped cream to match their signature finish. Or, go further and try a warm fall dessert like Caramel Apple Dip to pair with your homemade breakfast spread.
Pumpkin Spice Pancake Variations & Creative Toppings
Easy Add-Ins to Customize Your Pancakes
Pumpkin spice pancakes are already packed with flavor, but adding just a few extras can take them from tasty to unforgettable. If you want a little texture, mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Craving a chocolate twist? Fold in some mini chocolate chips. They melt into the batter and balance the spice with a hint of sweetness.
For those who love a little tang, swirl in cream cheese or add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the batter. This also helps with moisture and gives a tender, rich texture. If you’re baking for kids, adding festive fall sprinkles on top or shaping them into mini pancakes makes breakfast extra fun.
Another smart tweak? Swap milk with buttermilk or a splash of apple cider. Buttermilk gives a fluffy rise, while apple cider boosts that cozy, orchard, like flavor. Just remember to reduce the liquid slightly if you’re adding anything thick like pumpkin purée or yogurt to maintain the right batter consistency.
Top It Off Like a Pro
The real fun begins with toppings. While maple syrup is a classic, try whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon for that coffee shop flair. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dollop of spiced apple butter can also bring deep fall flavor to every bite.
For a healthier option, go with plain Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola or toasted pumpkin seeds. This adds crunch, protein, and a great balance of textures. Fresh banana slices, sautéed apples, or even a spoonful of cranberry compote can transform your stack into a seasonal masterpiece.
Whether you like it simple or fully loaded, pumpkin spice pancakes offer endless ways to keep breakfast interesting all season long.
Serving Suggestions and Storing Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
The Best Way to Serve Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Once your pancakes are golden and stacked high, it’s all about how you serve them. The classics—maple syrup and butter—are always a hit, but pumpkin spice pancakes welcome all kinds of creativity. A dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of warm caramel, or even a smear of cinnamon butter takes them from breakfast to a cozy dessert.
If you’re making brunch for a group, offer a toppings bar with sliced bananas, pecans, chocolate chips, and flavored syrups. For an elegant twist, layer pancakes with cream cheese frosting and serve like a pancake cake. It’s a showstopper without much extra effort.
Pair your pancakes with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte to lean into the fall vibes. If you’re going savory, bacon or turkey sausage adds a salty contrast that balances the sweet spices.
How to Store and Reheat Without Losing Texture
Pumpkin pancakes store surprisingly well, making them a great meal prep option for busy mornings. Once they’ve cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for one hour—this prevents sticking. Then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
To refrigerate, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster or a dry skillet over medium heat to maintain crisp edges and soft centers. Avoid microwaving if possible—it makes them rubbery.
Want to make mornings even easier? Double your batch and freeze half. It’s a comforting feeling knowing you’ve got pumpkin spice pancakes ready to go whenever you need a fall-flavored pick-me-up.
Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine pancake mix and pumpkin pie spice.
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, egg, milk, brown sugar, and vanilla.
- Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Let batter rest for 5 minutes while heating the skillet.
- Lightly grease skillet and pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake.
- Cook on medium heat until bubbles form on the surface, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes or until golden.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings like maple syrup or whipped cream.
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!Pumpkin Pancake FAQ
Can you add pumpkin spice to pancake mix?
Yes! Just stir in 1 to 1½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice per cup of mix before adding the wet ingredients. It blends beautifully with most store-bought mixes.
Are IHOP pumpkin spice pancakes good?
They’re soft, sweet, and lightly spiced—perfect if you enjoy a classic diner-style stack. While not as bold as homemade, they’re a solid seasonal option.
Does IHOP have pumpkin spice pancakes?
Yes, but only during fall. Availability typically runs from September through November.
How much pumpkin purée should I add to pancake mix?
Start with ¼ to ½ cup per cup of mix. Be sure to reduce the liquid slightly to maintain a pourable batter.
Conclusion: Why These Pancakes Deserve a Spot on Your Fall Table
Pumpkin spice pancakes aren’t just another seasonal trend—they’re a cozy ritual worth repeating every autumn. Whether you’re using boxed mix or starting from scratch, adding pumpkin and spice instantly transforms your morning. They’re versatile enough for a quiet breakfast or a festive brunch, and easy enough to make even on a lazy Sunday.
The warmth, the aroma, the simplicity—it’s everything fall should taste like. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and great for meal prep. So the next time you’re craving comfort food, skip the cereal and whip up a batch of these fall favorites.
And if you’re into exploring pancake creativity beyond the classic stack, you’ll love Food Network’s viral TikTok Pancake Spaghetti recipe—a fun twist on tradition that proves pancakes are anything but boring.
From one cozy kitchen to another—happy flipping!