Say goodbye to bland breakfasts and hello to a stack of pure autumnal delight! These Sweet Potato Pancakes are not just incredibly nutritious but also bursting with flavor, making them an ideal choice for cozy fall brunches or any morning you crave something special. Infused with aromatic pumpkin pie spice and sweetened with rich brown sugar, these humble pancakes are transformed into an irresistible breakfast treat that will have everyone asking for more.
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Experience the perfect blend of natural sweetness and satisfying crunch with these delightful Sweet Potato Pancakes. Lightly sweetened and featuring the earthy, delightful texture of toasted pecans, they are truly unbelievably good. Each bite delivers the quintessential flavors of autumn, while the inclusion of roasted sweet potatoes provides a surprising nutritional boost. Unlike dense, heavy pancakes that can weigh you down, these are wonderfully light, airy, and fluffy, making for a breakfast experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Whether you prefer them drizzled with warm maple syrup and a dollop of butter, or simply enjoyed plain as a quick grab-and-go snack, these amazing pancakes are so flavorful they stand perfectly on their own. They offer a unique twist on a breakfast classic, moving beyond traditional buttermilk or plain varieties to introduce a vibrant new favorite to your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Adore These Easy Sweet Potato Pancakes
- **Naturally Appealing for Kids:** The subtle sweetness of the sweet potatoes is a natural crowd-pleaser, providing a gentle flavor rather than an overpowering one. This makes them an excellent way to incorporate a nutritious vegetable into your children’s diet without them even realizing it, perfect for picky eaters!
- **Effortless to Prepare & Freeze:** These pancakes are remarkably simple to whip up, even on a busy morning. What’s more, they are fantastic for meal prepping. You can make a large batch, freeze the extras, and enjoy a delicious, wholesome breakfast or snack anytime. They reheat beautifully, tasting just as good as freshly made.
- **Perfectly Spiced for Any Season:** With a delicate balance of sweetness and a hint of warming pumpkin pie spice, these pancakes capture the essence of fall. However, their inviting flavors are so versatile that they are a wonderful addition to your breakfast rotation year-round. Enjoy them in autumn for a festive touch, or anytime you need a comforting, flavorful start to your day.
- **Nutritious & Wholesome:** Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, turning an ordinary pancake into a healthier, more substantial meal. You get a natural energy boost without the sugar crash often associated with traditional high-sugar breakfast options.
- **Customizable Crunch:** The addition of toasted pecans provides a fantastic textural contrast and nutty depth. However, if pecans aren’t your preference, they can easily be omitted or swapped for other nuts or seeds, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste.
Essential Ingredients for Fluffy Sweet Potato Pancakes
Crafting these delectable sweet potato pancakes requires a thoughtful selection of both dry and wet ingredients that work in harmony to create the perfect texture and flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few notes:
- All-purpose flour: The foundational dry ingredient, providing the structure for your pancakes. For a gluten-free option, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Pecans: Finely chopped and toasted, these add a wonderful nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. Toasting them beforehand truly enhances their aroma and taste.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent is crucial for achieving that signature light and fluffy pancake texture. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A warming blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, this spice blend is the secret to those comforting fall flavors. Adjust the amount to your preference.
- Kosher salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors in the batter.
- Sweet potatoes: Cooked and mashed until smooth. Roasting or baking them brings out their natural sugars and a deeper flavor compared to boiling. About 16 ounces of sweet potatoes will yield roughly 1 ¾ cups of mashed puree.
- Milk: Any type of milk works here – whole milk for richness, skim for a lighter option, or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk for dietary needs.
- Brown sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-rich sweetness that complements the sweet potato and pumpkin spice beautifully. Lightly packed is usually sufficient.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the pancakes. Unsalted butter is generally preferred, allowing you to control the salt content.
- Eggs: Act as a binder, helping to hold the pancakes together and contributing to their tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla elevates the overall flavor profile, adding a sweet and aromatic note.
- **Butter or oil for the skillet:** Essential for greasing your pan and ensuring the pancakes cook evenly without sticking.
Crafting the Best Sweet Potato Pancakes: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these delicious sweet potato pancakes is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are uniformly blended, ensuring the leavening and spices are evenly distributed. This step is crucial for consistent flavor and rise.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate, second bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato puree, melted butter (ensure it’s not too hot), milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until all these wet ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold and mix until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough pancakes. A few small lumps are perfectly acceptable.
- Fold in Pecans: Once your batter is mostly smooth, gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter for that delightful crunch in every bite.
- Heat Skillet: Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Allow it to heat thoroughly for a few minutes. Add a small pat of butter or a teaspoon of oil to the skillet, letting it melt and coat the bottom evenly. You can test the heat by dropping a tiny bit of water; it should sizzle immediately.
- Portion Batter: Using a 1/3 cup measuring scoop, pour portions of the batter onto the hot skillet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each pancake to allow for spreading and easy flipping. Work in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook and Flip: Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until you see small bubbles forming on the surface and the edges appear set and lightly golden brown. Carefully slide a spatula underneath each pancake and flip it. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, or until golden brown and cooked through in the middle.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings, such as hot maple syrup, a pat of butter, a sprinkle of extra pecans, or fresh fruit. Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Pancakes!
Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for Perfect Pancakes
Achieving pancake perfection is easy with these insider tips from Chef Jenn, designed to help you get the most out of your sweet potato pancake recipe:
- **Utilize Leftover Sweet Potatoes:** This recipe is truly a fantastic way to use up any leftover cooked sweet potatoes you might have. Whether they were roasted, baked, or microwaved, simply mash them thoroughly or puree them in a blender or food processor to achieve a smooth consistency for your batter. This not only prevents food waste but also saves you prep time!
- **Sweet Potato Preparation Matters:** While cooked sweet potatoes are key, the method of cooking can affect flavor. You can certainly use well-drained canned sweet potatoes if you’re short on time, but for the best flavor, I highly recommend using roasted or baked sweet potatoes. These methods concentrate their natural sweetness and offer a richer taste. Avoid using boiled sweet potatoes, as they tend to absorb too much water and can lack the depth of flavor needed for these pancakes.
- **Pecan Preference:** The chopped pecans add a delightful nutty crunch and dimension to these pancakes. However, if pecans aren’t to your liking, or if you have a nut allergy, feel free to skip them entirely. The pancakes are delicious even without them. Alternatively, you could substitute them with other chopped nuts like walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips for a different kind of treat!
- **The Magic of Toasted Pecans:** To elevate the flavor of your pecans, always take a few extra minutes to toast them. You can do this easily in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and lightly browned (about 3-5 minutes). Alternatively, spread them on a baking sheet and toast them in a low oven (around 325°F or 160°C) for 5-8 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. Toasting brings out their essential oils, intensifying their nutty flavor and enhancing the overall experience of the pancakes.
- **Don’t Overmix:** When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are combined. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, chewy pancakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
- **Rest the Batter:** If you have 10-15 minutes, allow your batter to rest after mixing. This gives the baking powder a chance to activate and the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in an even fluffier pancake.
- **Proper Skillet Temperature:** Maintaining a consistent medium heat is vital. Too low, and the pancakes will be greasy and flat. Too high, and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through on the inside. A good indicator is when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates immediately.
Recommended Pairings & Other Delicious Recipes
If you’re loving the cozy flavors and ease of these Sweet Potato Pancakes, you might enjoy exploring some of our other favorite recipes:
Serving Suggestions for an Unforgettable Brunch
While these Sweet Potato Pancakes are hearty enough to shine as the star of your meal, they also pair beautifully with a variety of breakfast and brunch favorites. Here are some ideas to complete your spread:
- Classic Combos: Serve them alongside crispy bacon, savory smoked breakfast sausage, perfectly cooked eggs (scrambled, fried, or poached), or a side of crispy home fries or roasted breakfast potatoes.
- Sweet Toppings: Beyond traditional maple syrup and butter, consider a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, a swirl of cinnamon sugar, or a drizzle of honey. Fruit compotes (like apple, pear, or berry) or fresh fruit slices (bananas, berries) are also fantastic additions.
- Nutty Additions: A sprinkle of extra toasted pecans, walnuts, or even a spoonful of almond butter can add more texture and protein.
- Yogurt & Granola: For a lighter, yet satisfying, twist, serve them with a side of Greek yogurt and homemade granola.
- Coffee or Tea: Don’t forget a warm beverage! A hot cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or your favorite herbal tea will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the pancakes.
Storage and Reheating for Future Enjoyment
One of the many benefits of these Sweet Potato Pancakes is how well they store and reheat, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week. Properly storing your leftovers ensures you can savor these delicious treats long after they’re made.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, place parchment paper between each pancake to prevent them from sticking together.
- Freezing: These pancakes freeze like a dream! Once cooled completely, stack them with parchment paper between each pancake. Place the stacks into a freezer-safe plastic bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to a month without losing much quality. This is an excellent way to prepare healthy breakfasts in advance for busy mornings.
- Reheating from Fridge: To reheat, simply pop them into the microwave for 30-60 seconds per pancake, or toast them in a toaster oven for a crispier exterior. You can also warm them gently in a skillet over low heat.
- Reheating from Freezer: From frozen, you can reheat pancakes directly in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or use a toaster oven for about 5-7 minutes. If using a skillet, cover the pan to help them steam and warm through without drying out.
Visual Guide: Step-by-Step Process
Pin Recipe
Sweet Potato Pancakes with Pecans
Light, fluffy, and a touch sweet, these Sweet Potato Pancakes are a delightful addition to your breakfast or brunch routine! Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 3/4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 16 ounces)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for the skillet
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until well mixed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a second bowl, whisk the sweet potato puree, melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla until well combined and smooth.
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until a smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt a bit of butter or add a teaspoon of oil to coat the bottom.
- Pour Pancakes: Pour 1/3 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot skillet, ensuring pancakes are about 2 inches apart.
- Cook and Flip: Cook until the edges start to bubble and are lightly golden, then carefully flip and cook until the second side is golden brown and the pancakes are set in the middle.
- Serve: Serve immediately with warm syrup and butter, and enjoy your delicious homemade pancakes!
Recipe Notes
Chef Jenn’s Tips
- This is a great **leftover sweet potato recipe**. Save some roasted, baked, or microwaved sweet potato and mash it up or puree it in a blender or food processor for this recipe.
- You can use well-drained canned sweet potatoes in place of baked or roasted. I don’t recommend using boiled sweet potatoes as they tend to be watery and don’t have a lot of concentrated flavor.
- Don’t like pecans? Feel free to skip them or substitute with other chopped nuts like walnuts.
- For enhanced flavor, toast the pecans in a **dry skillet** over medium-low heat or on a baking sheet in a low 325°F (160°C) oven until nutty and crunchy. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
Nutrition Information
Serving: 3 pancakes |
Calories: 463 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 61 g |
Protein: 11 g |
Fat: 20 g |
Saturated Fat: 6 g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g |
Trans Fat: 0.2 g |
Cholesterol: 104 mg |
Sodium: 520 mg |
Potassium: 441 mg |
Fiber: 4 g |
Sugar: 20 g |
Vitamin A: 8657 IU |
Vitamin C: 2 mg |
Calcium: 269 mg |
Iron: 3 mg
A Note on Nutritional Information
Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed, as actual values may vary based on specific ingredients used and preparation methods.
Want More Delicious and Easy Recipes to Elevate Your Meals?
If you enjoyed making these Sweet Potato Pancakes and are looking for more approachable, flavorful recipes to add to your collection, Chef Jenn has plenty more to offer. Explore some of our other popular dishes that are sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. From savory sides to hearty mains, there’s something for every palate and occasion!
- Smoked Asparagus: A surprisingly simple side dish with incredible depth of flavor.
- Over the Top Chili: A unique and delicious twist on classic chili that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Smoked Cream Cheese: An easy, viral appetizer that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
- Lobster Chowder: A rich and creamy seafood delight, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal.
- Smoked Shotgun Shells: A fun and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for BBQ enthusiasts.