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Spiced Pear Pancakes

Start your morning off right with these delicious Spiced Pear Pancakes. You’ll add grated fresh pear, cardamom, and ginger to a whole wheat batter for the tastiest fall-inspired pancakes.

Finished pancakes topped with yogurt and syrup on a white serving plate.

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Are you a breakfast eater? Do you enjoy a hearty breakfast in the morning, or do you just want a bite or two with a cup of coffee? For me, it depends. It depends a lot on the weather, how much time I have, and just plain whether or not I feel like cooking.

See, I don’t “wake up well.” It takes me a little bit of time to get going. I need to ease into my day, whereas BeeBop jumps right out of bed, raring to go. He’s learned over the years to give me a bit of time and space in the morning and then everything works out fine.

When I do feel like cooking, have plenty of time, and the weather isn’t blistering hot, I enjoy making a nice breakfast. More often than not, it’s something with eggs, bacon, and grits, but occasionally it’s a treat like these Spiced Pear Pancakes.

The pear grated right into the batter gives a nice flavor with some extra moisture, and the cardamom and ginger add just the right amount of spice for me. Topped with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey, they are a perfect start to the day.

❤️ Why We Love This Recipe


  • Autumnal Flavors – Welcome the fall season with a combination of sweet pears, cardamom, and ginger.
  • Customizable — Be creative. Use apple instead of pear, or change up the spices.
  • Quick and Easy — Whip up a satisfying breakfast in about 15 minutes with this easy-to-make recipe.

🛒Ingredient Notes


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  • Ripe Pear: Any variety of pears work for this recipe — Bartlett, Anjou, and Bosc work equally well. Do make sure that the pear is nicely ripe and sweet.
  • Flours: You’ll use both all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour for a balanced texture and heartiness. All whole wheat flour can be heavy.
  • Spices: Cardamom and ginger are warm fall spices that complement the pear’s sweetness. 
  • Sugar: The sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the batter. The amount may need to be adjusted according to the sweetness of the pear. 
  • Cooking Fat: You can use either butter or oil to grease your griddle or pan. This step prevents sticking and adds a bit of richness to the pancakes.
  • Toppings: Greek yogurt and honey provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the pancakes’ sweetness. Alternatives like maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit are also good options.

You’ll find detailed measurements for all ingredients in the printable version of the recipe at the bottom of this post.

🔪 How to Make Spiced Pear Pancakes


A fresh pear grated onto a paper towel.
  1. Using the coarse side of a box grater, grate the pear onto a paper towel. You don’t even need to peel it, just grate everything except the core.
  2. Let the grated pear sit and drain on the paper towel for a few minutes while you measure the rest of the ingredients for the recipe.

👉 PRO TIP: You could also use a grated apple in these pancakes and change out the cardamom and ginger for cinnamon and nutmeg.

Dry ingredients in a mixing bowl.
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flours, sugar, baking powder, salt, cardamom, and ginger.

👉 PRO TIP: If the pear is very sweet you may not need to add any sugar. I think two tablespoons is a good place to start, but it’s totally up to you.

Wet ingredients and a whisk in a mixing bowl.
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, and egg. Add the grated pear and stir it in.
Wet and dry ingredients combined in a mixing bowl.
  1. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Be careful not to over mix.
Pancakes cooking on a griddle.
  1. Let the batter rest while you heat the griddle or pan. If using an electric skillet, preheat to 325-350 degrees. If using a nonstick skillet, place it over medium high heat.
  2. When the griddle is hot, add a pat of butter. When the butter melts, measure out 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle or pan. Cook until the surface shows a few bubbles, about 2 minutes.
  3. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook until the underside has browned, about 1-2 minutes more. Repeat until all the batter is used adding more butter to the griddle as needed. As the pancakes cook, transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm in a low (180-200 degrees) oven.
  4. Top stacks of pancakes with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. Makes about 12 pancakes.
Finished pancakes topped with yogurt and syrup on a white serving plate.

🍽️ How to Serve


  • Crispy bacon or savory sausage links are a classic breakfast choice.
  • Scrambled, fried, or poached eggs make a hearty addition.
  • Indulge your sweet tooth with a dollop of whipped cream topped with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
  • The classic pancake companion, pure maple syrup, is always an option in place of the honey.
  • Spread almond butter, peanut butter, or any nut butter of your choice on top for a creamy, nutty twist.

🍚 How to Store


To store leftover pancakes, allow them to cool to room temperature. Place in an airtight container with parchment or waxed paper between the pancakes to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until frozen. Transfer frozen pancakes to a freezer-safe container with waxed or parchment paper between each. Freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat: If frozen, allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave for 20-23 seconds or in a very low oven until warmed through.

❓ Questions About Spiced Pear Pancakes


How do I know when it’s time to flip the pancakes while cooking?

Pancakes are ready to flip when you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges appear slightly set. Use a spatula to lift a corner gently and check if it has begun to brown. Once these signs appear, carefully flip the pancake and cook the other side until it’s also lightly browned.

What’s the best type of griddle or pan to use for making pancakes?

A nonstick skillet or griddle is ideal because it allows for easy flipping and minimal sticking. An electric griddle with temperature control is great for cooking a large batch all at once.

Can I use a milk alternative in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute any milk alternative such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk in this recipe. Make sure it’s unsweetened and unflavored.

Are there any gluten-free variations of this recipe?

To make these pancakes gluten-free, replace the all-purpose and whole wheat flours with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

Can I make these pancakes without eggs for a vegan version?

Yes. Use your favored egg substitute. Common egg substitutes in pancake recipes include mashed bananas, applesauce, or flaxseed meal mixed with water.

Lana Stuart.

More Questions? I’m happy to help!

If you have more questions about the recipe, or if you’ve made it and would like to leave a comment, scroll down to leave your thoughts, questions, and/or rating!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

📖 Recipe

Finished pancakes topped with yogurt and syrup on a white serving plate.

Spiced Pear Pancakes

My Spiced Pear Pancakes have grated fresh pear, cardamom, and ginger added to a whole wheat batter for the tastiest fall-inspired pancakes.
5 from 6 votes
Print It Rate It Save Text It
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 467kcal
Author: Lana Stuart

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe pear
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup whole wheat flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cardamom
  • ¼ teaspoon ginger
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil for greasing griddle or pan
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup honey

Instructions

  • Using the coarse side of a box grater, grate the pear onto a paper towel. Let the grated pear sit while you measure the rest of the ingredients for the recipe.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flours, sugar, baking powder, salt, cardamom, and ginger.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, and egg. Add the grated pear. Stir to combine.
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Do not overmix.
  • Let the batter rest while you heat the griddle or pan. If using an electric skillet, preheat to 325-350 degrees. If using a nonstick skillet, heat over medium-high heat. When hot, add a pat of butter. When the butter has melted, measure out 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle or pan. Cook until the surface shows a few bubbles, about 2 minutes. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook until the underside has browned, about 1-2 minutes more.
  • As the pancakes cook, transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm in a low (180-200 degrees) oven. Continue until all batter is used.
  • Top stacks of pancakes with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
  • Makes about 12 pancakes.

Notes

  • If your pear is very sweet you may not need to add any sugar. I think two tablespoons is a good place to start, but it’s totally up to you.
  • You could also use a grated apple in these pancakes and change out the cardamom and ginger for cinnamon and nutmeg.

Nutrition Information

Serving 1 | Calories 467kcal | Carbohydrates 75g | Protein 10g | Fat 16g | Saturated Fat 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat 3g | Monounsaturated Fat 7g | Trans Fat 1g | Cholesterol 63mg | Sodium 606mg | Potassium 280mg | Fiber 4g | Sugar 49g | Vitamin A 347IU | Vitamin C 2mg | Calcium 237mg | Iron 2mg

Nutrition information is calculated by software based on the ingredients in each recipe. It is an estimate only and is provided for informational purposes. You should consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian if precise nutrition calculations are needed for health reasons.

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— This post was originally published on August 5, 2014. It has been updated with additional information.

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Recipe Rating




24 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    Made these this morning and they were beautiful. The flavours were so well balanced and the pear added a nice sweetness and moist texture! Thank you for this one!

  2. Ofis Mobilyası says:

    Love that you grate the pear, I bet it just melts into these pancakes. Everything about these would definitely get me going in the morning.

  3. These look delicious. I will definitely try this recipe for any meal.

  4. Carol at Wild Goose Tea says:

    I am a morning person. But when I make pancakes, its for dinner or brunch. Cardamom is a favorite flavor. Good spice choices to go with the pear.

  5. Melissa from HungryFoodLove.com says:

    Yes! We always make a fall theme breakfast to welcome the season. This year we will be making this pancakes. Yummm!

  6. Angie | Big Bear's Wife says:

    Hello breakfast!!! Yum yum! I bet these are fantastic!

  7. Love that you grate the pear, I bet it just melts into these pancakes. Everything about these would definitely get me going in the morning.

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      You’re right, Susan, the pears just melt away but give a fantastic flavor to the batter.

      1. Morris Rayner says:

        Thanks Lana, I really agree that the spices go with the texture of the pancakes

  8. Barbara | Creative Culinary says:

    Such unique flavors I don’t typically associate with pancakes which is why they sound SO good!

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      I get bored with the same old, same old pancakes so these were a welcome change! The spices worked really well with the pear.

  9. Renee - Kudos Kitchen says:

    What a great new idea for pancakes! Perfect for pear season!

  10. Lora @cakeduchess says:

    I’m a morning person and usually have to jump right out to make my kiddos pancakes (at least in the summer). These are what I’ll make next!!

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      Hope the kiddos enjoy them, Lora! My grandkids think they’re delicious :-)

  11. I have had apple pancakes as you mentioned but these pear pancakes will be delicious! Thanks for sharing this great idea…..it is pear season! :)

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      Either one – apple or pear – is great in these. Just switch the spices as you like.

  12. Lauren Kelly Nutrition says:

    I would love to make these pancakes! They sound delicious!

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      Thanks, Lauren. I hope you’ll try them.

  13. Ginny McMeans says:

    I am in love! This looks wonderful and why not for dinner? My husband would appreciate that!

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      Of course these would be perfect for dinner, Ginny!

  14. Angela {Mind Over Batter} says:

    I’m not a morning person, yet I’m always awake before 6. Even on weekends. Sigh…

    I love the moisture pears add! The spices in these pancakes must be stellar. Mmm…

    1. Lana Stuart says:

      Cardamom is one of my favorites, Angela, so I always try to use it when I can.