Sweet Potato Pancakes Recipe with Perfect Apple Cider Syrup

Imagine waking up to the cozy aroma of sweet potatoes and warm spices wafting through your kitchen. Sweet Potato Pancakes with Apple Cider Syrup are the ultimate fall breakfast treat that brings comfort and joy to your mornings. I still remember the first time I made these—they were an instant hit with my family, and now, they’re a regular part of our weekend breakfast rotation.

These pancakes are fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, with just the right amount of sweetness. Pair them with a warm, tangy apple cider syrup, and you’ve got yourself a plate of pure autumn bliss. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating your kids to a special breakfast, or simply craving something unique, this recipe is bound to become a favorite!

Let’s dive into how you can whip up these irresistible sweet potato pancakes and take your breakfast game to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never tried sweet potato pancakes before, you’re in for a real treat! Here’s why this recipe deserves to be a staple in your kitchen:

• Easy to Make: No fancy gadgets or hard-to-find ingredients needed. This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The earthy, natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, paired with warm spices, creates a flavor profile that feels like a hug in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These pancakes are just as great for a lazy weekend breakfast as they are for a holiday brunch or a cozy dinner-for-breakfast night.
• Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist the soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness of these pancakes.
• Unique Syrup Pairing: The homemade apple cider syrup elevates the dish, adding a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the pancakes beautifully.

What sets these sweet potato pancakes apart is their texture and flavor. The mashed sweet potato creates a wonderfully moist and tender bite, while the combination of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic twist. And let’s not forget about the apple cider syrup—it’s the kind of topping that makes you want to drizzle it over everything. Once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a delicious breakfast that tastes like fall on a plate. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Pancakes:
• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (roasted or boiled)
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk (use almond milk for dairy-free option)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• For the Apple Cider Syrup:
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. The key is to use fresh, high-quality sweet potatoes and real apple cider for the syrup to get the best flavor.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets to make these pancakes, which is one of the reasons I love this recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowls for the batter
• Whisk or fork for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Non-stick skillet or griddle
• Spatula for flipping pancakes
• Small saucepan for making the syrup

If you don’t have a griddle, a regular frying pan works just as well. I’ve even used a cast-iron skillet for these pancakes, and it gave them a lovely golden crust. Just make sure the surface is non-stick or greased well, so your pancakes don’t stick.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato: Start by peeling and boiling or roasting your sweet potato until it’s fork-tender. Allow it to cool slightly and then mash it until completely smooth. Set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato, egg, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Heat the Pan: Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray.
6. Cook the Pancakes: Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
7. Make the Apple Cider Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry.
8. Thicken the Syrup: Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering syrup, whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the syrup thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
9. Serve: Stack the pancakes on a plate, drizzle generously with apple cider syrup, and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making the perfect sweet potato pancakes doesn’t have to be challenging. Here are my tried-and-true tips:

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can make your pancakes dense instead of fluffy. Stop mixing when the ingredients are just combined.
• Preheat your pan: A hot, well-greased pan is crucial for golden, evenly cooked pancakes. I always sprinkle a drop of water on the surface—if it sizzles, it’s ready!
• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes bring out maximum sweetness and flavor, but boiling works in a pinch.
• Keep them warm: Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to keep them warm while you finish the batch.
• Make the syrup ahead: The apple cider syrup can be made the night before and gently reheated in the morning for convenience.

Trust me, these small tweaks can make a big difference in your pancake game!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this sweet potato pancake recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few ideas to customize it:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s made for baking.
• Vegan-Friendly Swap: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) and use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
• Add Some Crunch: Stir in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
• Make It Tropical: Add shredded coconut and a dash of ground ginger to the batter for a fun twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with adding a pinch of cardamom or cloves for a spicier flavor profile.

I’ve tried adding chopped toasted pecans to the batter, and it added a delightful crunch. You can also top the pancakes with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Sweet Potato Pancakes are best enjoyed warm with a generous drizzle of apple cider syrup. Here’s how I like to serve and store them:

• Serving Temperature: Serve the pancakes hot off the skillet for the best texture and flavor.
• Presentation: Stack them high, drizzle with syrup, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few apple slices for a picture-perfect breakfast.
• Pairings: Serve with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a side of fresh fruit for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the toaster or oven.
• Reheating Tips: Warm pancakes in the microwave, toaster, or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

The flavors of the sweet potato and spices deepen as they sit, so leftovers taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s why these sweet potato pancakes with apple cider syrup are not only delicious but also nutritious:

• Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are a nutrient powerhouse.
• Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Apple Cider: Provides a dose of natural sweetness and antioxidants.
• Low Fat Option: Use coconut oil or low-fat milk to cut down on saturated fat.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily adaptable for those with gluten sensitivities.

These pancakes strike the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome goodness, making them a guilt-free way to start your day.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Pancakes with Apple Cider Syrup are the kind of recipe that makes mornings feel special, no matter the season. The blend of sweet potato, warm spices, and tangy syrup is a combination that’s hard to beat. They’re easy to make, adaptable to your dietary needs, and delicious enough to impress even the pickiest eaters.

I love this recipe because it reminds me of cozy autumn mornings spent with my family, enjoying good food and even better company. I hope you try it and make your own memories with it!

If you give this recipe a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment below and let me know if you tried any variations—or share it with your friends to spread the pancake love!

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato puree?

Yes, canned sweet potato puree works just fine! Just make sure it’s unsweetened and smooth.

What can I use instead of apple cider for the syrup?

If you don’t have apple cider, try using apple juice or pear juice as a substitute. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still be delicious!

How do I know when to flip the pancakes?

Flip the pancakes when bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set. They should lift easily with a spatula.

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them in the oven or toaster for best results.

Are these pancakes gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.

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