Golden Sweet Potato Pancakes

Embrace the Cozy Flavors of Fall with These Irresistible Sweet Potato Pancakes!

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a comforting, warm breakfast to start your day. These Sweet Potato Pancakes are more than just a meal; they’re an experience, perfect for cozy fall brunches or any morning you crave something truly special. Combining the natural sweetness and wholesome goodness of roasted sweet potatoes with the aromatic warmth of pumpkin pie spice and a touch of brown sugar, these humble pancakes are transformed into a crave-worthy, nutritious, and incredibly delicious treat that will delight your senses and nourish your body. They’re surprisingly light and fluffy, never dense or heavy, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional pancakes.

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A delightful scattering of toasted pecans lends a satisfying nutty crunch to these lightly sweetened Sweet Potato Pancakes. They are unbelievably good, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite. Beyond their incredible taste, these pancakes offer a wonderful nutritional boost from wholesome roasted sweet potatoes, a superfood packed with vitamins and fiber. Forget heavy, flat pancakes; ours are wonderfully light, supremely fluffy, and utterly fabulous. Whether you drench them in warm syrup and melting butter, crown them with fresh fruit, or simply enjoy them plain, these pancakes stand out as a truly satisfying and memorable breakfast.

These sweet potato pancakes are not just a breakfast item; they are a celebration of seasonal flavors, a perfect way to bring warmth and comfort to your family’s table. Their subtle sweetness and inviting aroma make them a hit with both kids and adults, providing a wholesome start to any day.

Essential Ingredients for Your Sweet Potato Pancakes

Crafting the perfect batch of sweet potato pancakes begins with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that coveted light texture, subtle sweetness, and warm, inviting flavor.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of our pancake batter, providing structure. For a slightly healthier twist, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Pecans: Chopped and, crucially, toasted! Toasting pecans beforehand intensifies their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible crunch that complements the soft pancakes beautifully. If pecans aren’t your preference, walnuts or even a mix of seeds can be used.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent is key to achieving those wonderfully light and fluffy pancakes. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
• Pumpkin pie spice: The star spice that brings all the quintessential fall flavors together. This blend typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, creating a warm and aromatic profile. If you don’t have it, a combination of cinnamon and nutmeg works well.
• Kosher salt: A pinch of salt is essential to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors in the batter, preventing the pancakes from tasting bland.
• Sweet potatoes: Cooked and mashed until smooth. Roasting or baking sweet potatoes brings out their natural sugars and yields a drier, more flavorful puree compared to boiling. This concentrated flavor is what makes these pancakes truly special. Aim for a smooth consistency, free of lumps, for a uniform batter.
• Milk: Any type of milk will work here – whole milk for richer pancakes, or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk for a lactose-free option. The milk helps hydrate the flour and contributes to a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes and fall spices. Lightly packed brown sugar is usually sufficient. You can adjust the amount slightly to your sweetness preference.
• Melted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the pancakes, contributing to their tender texture and delicious flavor. Make sure it’s cooled slightly before adding to the wet ingredients.
• Eggs: Act as a binder, holding the batter together, and also contribute to the fluffiness and richness of the pancakes. Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a subtle warmth and sweetness that rounds out the spice blend.

Crafting the Perfect Sweet Potato Pancakes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these delightful pancakes is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear steps for a batch of light, fluffy, and flavorful sweet potato pancakes every time.

1. Prepare the 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 to ensure they are well mixed and evenly distributed. This step is crucial for consistent leavening and flavor throughout your pancakes.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate, second bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato puree, cooled melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until all the wet ingredients are completely smooth and well integrated. This ensures a consistent texture in your final batter.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl containing 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 fine.
4. Fold in the Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans into the batter. This ensures they are evenly distributed, adding a delightful crunch to every bite without crushing them.
5. Heat the Skillet: Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the bottom, just enough to lightly coat the cooking surface. Allow the skillet to heat up properly; a drop of water should sizzle gently.
6. Portion the Batter: Using a 1/3 cup measuring scoop, pour portions of the batter onto the heated skillet. Leave approximately 2 inches between each pancake to allow for spreading and easy flipping.
7. Cook to Perfection: Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until you see small bubbles forming on the surface and the edges begin to set and turn golden brown.
8. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip each pancake with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through in the middle.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a warm plate. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings such as hot maple syrup, a dollop of butter, or a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans. Enjoy the comforting flavors!

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for Flawless Pancakes

Achieving pancake perfection is easy with these insider tips and tricks:

• Utilize Leftover Sweet Potatoes: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked sweet potatoes! Whether roasted, baked, or even microwaved, simply mash or puree them in a blender or food processor until smooth for this recipe. It’s a delicious way to prevent food waste.
• Sweet Potato Preparation Matters: For the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend using roasted or baked sweet potatoes. These methods concentrate their natural sweetness and result in a drier puree, which is ideal for pancake batter. While you can use well-drained canned sweet potatoes as a convenient alternative, I advise against using boiled sweet potatoes, as they tend to absorb too much water and can dilute the flavor of your pancakes.
• Pecan Preference: Not a fan of pecans? No problem! You can easily omit them from the recipe or substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• The Power of Toasted Pecans: To truly unlock the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, always toast them before adding them to your batter. You can do this quickly in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until fragrant, or spread them on a baking sheet and toast them in a low 325°F (160°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The aroma will tell you when they’re ready!
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: For light and fluffy pancakes, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable and even desirable. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, chewy pancakes instead of tender ones.
• Rest Your Batter: If you have time, let your pancake batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to start working, resulting in even fluffier pancakes.
• Perfect Skillet Temperature: Achieving the right skillet temperature is crucial. Too hot, and your pancakes will burn on the outside before cooking through; too cool, and they’ll be dense and greasy. Medium heat is usually ideal. Test with a small drop of water – it should sizzle gently and evaporate.
• Consistent Portions: Use a measuring cup (like 1/3 cup) or an ice cream scoop for each pancake to ensure they are uniform in size and cook evenly.

Recommended Pairings & Recipes

Elevate Your Brunch: Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Pancakes

These Sweet Potato Pancakes are truly satisfying on their own, but they also make a fantastic foundation for a complete and hearty breakfast or brunch spread. Here are some delicious ideas to pair them with:

• Classic Breakfast Meats: Serve alongside crispy bacon, savory sausage patties, or even our smoked breakfast sausage for a perfect sweet and savory balance.
• Fresh Fruit: Complement the natural sweetness of the pancakes with a vibrant medley of fresh berries, sliced bananas, or warm apple compote.
• Whipped Toppings: A dollop of homemade whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a swirl of Greek yogurt can add a touch of indulgence.
• Syrup & Spreads: Beyond maple syrup and butter, consider honey, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a spiced cranberry sauce for an extra festive touch. Nut butters like almond or peanut butter can also add protein and richness.
• Breakfast Casseroles: For a grander brunch, pair them with a fluffy egg casserole or a cheesy potato gratin.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee, a spiced chai latte, or a comforting herbal tea are the perfect beverages to accompany these cozy pancakes.

Storage and Reheating Made Easy

One of the best things about these Sweet Potato Pancakes is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick breakfast.
• Freezing: These pancakes freeze like a dream! Allow them to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between each pancake to prevent sticking. Place the stack in a freezer-safe plastic bag or an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to a month. Freezing them individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag can also prevent them from sticking together.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: For a quick reheat, place 1-2 pancakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
  • Toaster or Toaster Oven: For a crispier exterior, pop frozen or refrigerated pancakes into a toaster or toaster oven on a medium setting until hot and lightly toasted.
  • Skillet: Reheat pancakes in a lightly buttered skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through. This method also helps to restore some of their original texture.

Step-by-Step Visual Process

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4.83 from 39 votes

Sweet Potato Pancakes with Pecans

Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these Sweet Potato Pancakes are a delightful and nutritious addition to your breakfast or brunch routine! Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall any time of year.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword leftover sweet potatoes, pancakes, pecans, sweet potato pancakes, sweet potatoes

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 463kcal

Author Chef Jenn

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, roasted or baked for best flavor
• 1 cup milk any kind, dairy or non-dairy
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter melted and slightly cooled
• 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 they are thoroughly mixed and evenly distributed.
• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, second bowl, whisk the sweet potato puree, melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and well combined.
• Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix gently using a spatula or spoon until just combined and a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are fine.
• Add Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
• Heat Skillet: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt a small amount of butter or add a thin layer of oil to coat the bottom surface.
• Cook Pancakes: Pour 1/3 cup of batter per pancake onto the heated skillet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
• Flip and Finish Cooking: Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the edges start to bubble and set, and the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip each pancake with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the pancake is cooked through in the middle.
• Serve: Serve the hot sweet potato pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings, such as warm maple syrup, a pat of butter, or fresh fruit, and enjoy!

Notes

These tips are key to perfecting your sweet potato pancakes:

• This is a fantastic way to use leftover sweet potato. Simply save some roasted, baked, or microwaved sweet potato and mash or puree it until smooth.
• For best flavor and texture, use roasted or baked sweet potatoes. While canned sweet potatoes can be used if well-drained, boiled sweet potatoes are not recommended as they lack intense flavor.
• If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to skip them or substitute with walnuts or chocolate chips.
• Always toast pecans in a dry skillet or a 325°F (160°C) oven until fragrant and crunchy to enhance their flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the batter for light and fluffy pancakes; a few lumps are fine.
• Allow the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes if possible, to hydrate the flour and activate the leavening agents.
• Maintain a consistent medium heat on your skillet for even cooking without burning.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 3pancakes | Calories: 463kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 104mg | Sodium: 520mg | Potassium: 441mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 8657IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 269mg | Iron: 3mg

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 values can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Want More Delicious and Easy Recipes?

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• Lobster Chowder: Indulgent and rich, perfect for a special occasion.
• Smoked Shotgun Shells: A fun and flavorful dish for BBQ enthusiasts.

These Sweet Potato Pancakes with Pecans offer a unique twist on a breakfast classic, combining nutritional benefits with comforting flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special fall brunch or a simple weekday morning, they’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Enjoy the process of creating these fluffy, spiced pancakes, and delight in every delicious bite!