Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe with you because it’s a total game-changer for those cozy mornings when you want something nourishing yet indulgent. These pancakes are packed with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and a medley of spices, all while being free from eggs and dairy — perfect if you or someone at your table has dietary restrictions or simply wants a wholesome start to the day.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it balances health and flavor. The whole wheat flour gives you that hearty texture and added fiber, while the pumpkin puree keeps the pancakes moist and tender. Whether you’re whipping up a weekend breakfast or surprising your family on a chilly autumn morning, these pancakes really hit the spot and keep everyone asking for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Egg & Dairy-Free: Perfect for those avoiding common allergens without sacrificing flavor or texture.
  • Wholesome Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour and pumpkin, giving you fiber and nutrients in every bite.
  • Easy & Quick: Comes together in under 10 minutes, great for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
  • Adaptable Flavors: The warm spices invite so many tweaks, making it easy to customize to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a special role, from the pumpkin puree adding moisture to the whole wheat flour bringing hearty goodness. I always recommend using fresh spices if possible — it truly makes a difference in flavor!

  • Pumpkin Puree: Not only adds moisture and body but delivers that signature fall flavor and a boost of vitamin A.
  • Plant Milk: Use your favorite unsweetened variety like almond or oat milk to keep it dairy-free and creamy.
  • Water: Thins out the batter to the perfect consistency without adding calories.
  • Applesauce: Acts as a fantastic egg replacer and adds a subtle natural sweetness.
  • Agave or Maple Syrup: Gives a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and spices.
  • Vanilla Extract: Elevates the overall flavor with a warm, fragrant touch.
  • Whole Wheat Flour: For that dense, nutty flavor and added fiber to keep you feeling full longer.
  • Baking Powder: Essential for making these pancakes nice and fluffy without eggs.
  • Sea Salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet and spicy notes.
  • Cardamom: Adds a unique aromatic twist that’s slightly sweet and floral.
  • Cinnamon: The classic spice that screams pumpkin season.
  • Ground Ginger: A subtle spicy kick that complements the sweetness perfectly.
  • Nutmeg: A warm, nutty flavor that rounds out the spice mix.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to switch things up depending on what I have on hand or who I’m feeding. Don’t be afraid to experiment — that’s part of the fun with this Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe.

  • Gluten-Free Version: I once tried swapping whole wheat flour for a gluten-free blend, and it turned out wonderfully fluffy, just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum for binding.
  • Add-ins: Sometimes I toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or dairy-free chocolate chips to add texture and a little surprise to each bite.
  • Spice Mix Adjustments: If you prefer more cinnamon or less ginger, feel free to tweak the spice levels — that’s how you make it truly yours.
  • Sweetener Swap: Maple syrup works beautifully instead of agave, and if you want to cut back on sugar, you can reduce the amount slightly without compromising taste.

How to Make Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together your pumpkin puree, plant milk, water, applesauce, agave (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract in a large bowl until everything is smooth and well combined. I find that taking the time here ensures the batter is uniform and helps avoid any clumps of pumpkin or applesauce later on.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, sift in the whole wheat flour, baking powder, sea salt, and all your aromatic spices — cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir everything gently with a fork or large spoon until you have a creamy batter. Don’t overmix here; a few small lumps are totally fine and help keep your pancakes tender.

Step 3: Cook Your Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and spray it lightly with oil. After about 2 minutes, pour about 1/3 cup of batter for each pancake onto the pan. You’ll want to watch closely for small bubbles forming on the surface before flipping, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook until the other side is golden brown, then remove and set aside. Repeat until all batter is used — you’ll have about a dozen pancakes!

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Pro Tips for Making Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe

  • Perfect Batter Consistency: If your batter feels too thick, add a splash more plant milk to help it spread evenly without becoming runny.
  • Pan Temperature: Medium-high heat works best; too hot and your pancakes might burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
  • Flip Timing: Wait for bubbles to burst on the surface before flipping — it’s the best way to ensure a fluffy texture.
  • Non-Stick Skillet Prep: I learned that lightly spraying oil after every couple of pancakes prevents sticking without saturating your pancakes in oil.

How to Serve Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe

A stack of seven thick, round pancakes with a warm, golden brown color sits in the center of a white plate on a white marbled surface. Each pancake has a slightly textured, fluffy appearance with some small holes and syrup dripping down the sides, adding a shiny glaze. On top of the stack is a generous dollop of white whipped cream, lightly speckled with tiny dark spots, and sprinkled with pieces of chopped pecans. Around the plate and on the marbled surface are a few whole pecan nuts. In the background, there is another tall stack of similar pancakes, slightly out of focus, along with blurred bowls and a fork on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

My favorite way to dress these pancakes is with a dollop of vegan whipped cream, a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for crunch. It’s such a cozy combo that reminds me of autumn afternoons with family. You can also try fresh sliced fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar for something simpler but equally tasty.

Side Dishes

I often pair these pumpkin pancakes with a side of fresh fruit like berries or apple slices to add a refreshing contrast. Sometimes I’ll throw together a quick green smoothie or a bowl of nut butter for extra protein, balancing out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve stacked these pancakes into a tall tower, layering each tier with vegan whipped cream and pecans. Adding a dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top makes it look super festive! You can even use cookie cutters for fun shapes and make the breakfast feel extra playful for kids or guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I find popping them in a toaster or warming them gently in a skillet helps bring back a bit of their original crispness.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Lay pancakes flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. That way, you can reheat as many or as few as you like without them sticking together.

Reheating

To keep the texture as close to fresh as possible, I reheat frozen pancakes in a toaster or on a skillet over low heat. Avoid the microwave if you can — it tends to make them a bit soggy.

FAQs

  1. Can I use canned pumpkin for this Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe?

    Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is the most convenient option. Just make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

  2. What is the best substitute for eggs in this recipe?

    In this recipe, unsweetened applesauce acts as the egg replacement, providing moisture and binding. You can’t really skip it without affecting texture, so stick with about 2 tablespoons for best results.

  3. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

    You can, but the texture and flavor will be a bit different — all-purpose flour will yield lighter pancakes, while whole wheat adds nuttiness and more fiber. If using all-purpose, you might want to add a bit more baking powder to help with fluffiness.

  4. How do I avoid pancakes sticking to the pan?

    Use a good quality non-stick skillet and lightly spray it with oil before heating. Also, don’t flip the pancakes too early—wait until bubbles form and the edges start to look set.

Final Thoughts

This Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe has become one of my go-to breakfasts — a recipe I trust to bring comfort, wholesome nutrition, and a bit of that pumpkin spice magic to my mornings. I truly encourage you to give it a try because it’s easy to make, flexible to customize, and most importantly, it tastes so darn good! Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a special treat, these pancakes will make your kitchen smell amazing and put smiles on faces. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe close.

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Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe

Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes (Egg & Dairy-Free) Recipe

4.5 from 83 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pancakes 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Delight in these wholesome Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pancakes, a perfect egg and dairy-free breakfast option bursting with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Made with pumpkin puree and whole wheat flour, these pancakes are moist, flavorful, and topped with vegan-friendly toppings such as pecans, whipped cream, and pure maple syrup for a cozy start to your day.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Pancake Batter

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3/4 cup plant milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tbsp applesauce
  • 2 tbsp agave or maple syrup
  • 1.5 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1.5 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1.5 tsp cardamom
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg

Toppings

  • Chopped pecans
  • Vegan whipped cream
  • Pure maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, plant milk, water, applesauce, agave or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined and smooth.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift whole wheat flour, baking powder, sea salt, cardamom, cinnamon, ground ginger, and nutmeg into the wet mixture. Stir gently with a fork or large spoon until the batter is creamy and well combined, avoiding overmixing.
  3. Preheat Skillet: Spray a non-stick skillet or griddle with cooking oil. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes to ensure it’s hot enough for cooking pancakes.
  4. Cook Pancakes: Using a ladle or 1/3 cup measuring cup, pour batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Repeat until all batter is used.
  5. Serve with Toppings: Transfer pancakes to a plate and top with your favorite toppings such as chopped pecans, vegan whipped cream, and pure maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For fluffier pancakes, avoid overmixing the batter; some lumps are fine.
  • Use oil spray or a small amount of coconut oil to prevent sticking.
  • Feel free to substitute spices to suit your taste preferences.
  • These pancakes freeze well; reheat in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.
  • Adjust the amount of plant milk to achieve desired batter consistency.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pancakes
  • Calories: 82 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 107 mg
  • Fat: 1 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg