Irresistible Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pancakes : The Perfect Fall Breakfast

If you’re looking for a breakfast that tastes like autumn on a plate, these chocolate chip pumpkin pancakes are exactly what you need. Fluffy, lightly spiced, and dotted with melty chocolate chips, they’re a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. Whether you’re planning a slow Sunday morning, whipping up a holiday brunch, or simply craving a sweet yet comforting start to your day, these pancakes will make you fall in love with cozy fall baking all over again.

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Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Pumpkin and chocolate may sound like an unexpected combination, but together they create one of the most delicious pumpkin chocolate chip recipes. The pumpkin purée adds a rich, moist texture and warm spiced flavor, while chocolate chips bring bursts of sweetness in every bite.

These pancakes are:

• Perfect for fall mornings and cozy weekends.
• Kid-friendly and fun with melty chocolate inside.
• Versatile—you can serve them for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
• Seasonal yet timeless, making them ideal for Thanksgiving pancakes or as a fun Halloween-inspired breakfast idea.

If you’ve already fallen in love with recipes like Pumpkin French Toast Roll-Ups, then you’ll adore these fluffy pumpkin pancakes just as much.

Ingredients You Need for Easy Pumpkin Pancakes

Making these pancakes requires simple pantry ingredients along with pumpkin purée and chocolate chips.

Pantry Staples and Pumpkin Purée

• 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (can sub gluten-free blend if needed)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ginger
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
• 2 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Choosing the Best Chocolate Chips

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (mini or regular)
  • Mini chips spread more evenly through the batter.
  • Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor.
  • Dairy-free chocolate works perfectly for vegan eaters.

Pro tip: Toss chocolate chips lightly in flour before folding into the batter to prevent sinking.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pancakes

These pancakes come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or a festive fall brunch.

Mixing the Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin purée, milk, egg, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined.

Cooking Pancakes to Perfection

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
2. Scoop about 1/4 cup batter for each pancake.
3. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, then flip.
4. Cook an additional 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

Adding Chocolate Chips for the Best Flavor

• Fold chocolate chips directly into the batter OR sprinkle them on top after pouring batter onto the skillet for gooey chocolate puddles.

Want more fall breakfast ideas? Try these Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats for a no-fuss make-ahead option.

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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Recipes for Fall Mornings

Pumpkin and chocolate is a classic fall pairing. Beyond pancakes, you can enjoy this combo in:

• Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
• Pumpkin Brownies
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles

Each one is cozy, rich, and absolutely perfect for seasonal baking.

Variations and Fun Twists

Mini Pumpkin Waffles

Turn the same batter into waffles using a mini waffle maker. Top with whipped cream or cinnamon sugar.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Swap flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too.

Thanksgiving Pancakes With Spiced Toppings

Serve with cinnamon butter, maple syrup, and candied pecans for an unforgettable Thanksgiving pancakes dish.

Halloween Inspired Recipes: Pumpkin Pancakes With a Twist

For a spooky twist, make mini pancakes and arrange them into a pumpkin face. You can also drizzle with orange-tinted icing or use chocolate chips for jack-o’-lantern eyes. Pair with Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts for a fun Halloween breakfast spread.

Fall Pancake Recipes Worth Trying

These pancakes are a highlight of fall pancake recipes, but you can mix things up by trying:

• Apple cinnamon pancakes
• Gingerbread pancakes in December
• Mini Pumpkin Bread With Cinnamon Swirl for a quick slice-and-serve alternative

Cozy Fall Baking: Why Pumpkin + Chocolate Is a Match Made in Heaven

Pumpkin adds warmth and moisture, while chocolate chips bring sweetness and richness. Together, they’re irresistible. This is why cozy fall baking always circles back to pumpkin and chocolate—whether in pancakes, muffins, or cakes.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Ideas Beyond Pancakes

Pumpkin chocolate chip lovers can also bake:

• Pumpkin Protein Muffins
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
• Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for lunchbox treats

Savory Fall Recipes to Pair With Pancakes

Balance sweetness with savory fall recipes like:

• Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
• Healthy Smashed Carrots
• Vegetable Casserole

Tips for Serving and Storing

• Serve hot with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze pancakes with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the toaster or microwave for a quick breakfast.

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FAQs About Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Why are my pancakes dense?
Overmixing the batter can make pancakes heavy. Stir gently until just combined.

Can I prep the batter ahead?
It’s best to cook right away, but you can mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine just before cooking.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

These chocolate chip pumpkin pancakes are warm, fluffy, and packed with autumn flavor. Whether you enjoy them on a crisp fall morning, serve them at a festive brunch, or make them part of your Thanksgiving pancakes spread, they’ll bring joy to your table.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family and subscribe to the blog for more cozy fall recipes.

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