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These gluten free sweet potato pancakes bring together warmth and wholesome ingredients in a breakfast that feels like a cozy hug. The natural sweetness from the sweet potato pairs beautifully with the spices and maple syrup, resulting in fluffy pancakes that satisfy without any gluten. Whether you are accommodating dietary needs or just looking for a nourishing start to your day, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor effortlessly.
I first made these pancakes during a chilly autumn weekend and was amazed at how the sweet potato gave such a moist and tender texture. Now they are a favorite in my family, especially when served with fresh berries or nut butter.
Ingredients
- Unsweetened dairy-free milk: offers a creamy base and keeps the recipe dairy free& choose almond or oat milk for best flavor
- Pureed sweet potato: adds natural sweetness and moisture as well as vitamin A& use roasted or steamed sweet potato for a smooth puree
- Coconut oil: provides a mild flavor and helps create a tender crumb& any neutral oil like avocado or grapeseed will work
- Pure vanilla extract: enhances the overall sweetness and aroma& opt for pure vanilla not imitation for best depth
- Ground flax seeds: act as a binder helping keep pancakes together without eggs& freshly ground flaxseed is ideal for freshness
- Pure maple syrup: contributes natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor& look for Grade A for lighter taste or Grade B for richer syrup
- Gluten-free flour blend: is essential for avoiding gluten while maintaining structure& pick a blend with a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch for best results
- Baking powder and baking soda: combine to give these pancakes a good rise and fluffiness
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: add warm spice notes that complement the sweet potato perfectly
- Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors in the batter
Instructions
- Sift and mix dry ingredients:
- Whisk together gluten free flour blend ground cinnamon nutmeg baking powder baking soda and salt in a large bowl ensuring everything is evenly combined
- Prepare the wet ingredients:
- In a medium bowl whisk dairy free milk pureed sweet potato coconut oil vanilla ground flax seeds and maple syrup integrating the flax seeds well then let this mixture rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly
- Heat the pan:
- Place a nonstick pan or griddle over medium high heat allowing it to warm for at least 2 minutes to ensure even cooking and good pancake browning
- Combine wet and dry:
- Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients stirring carefully until fully incorporated but avoid over mixing to keep the pancakes light and airy
- Cook the pancakes:
- Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of oil just enough to prevent sticking Using a ladle pour about one third cup or less of batter into the pan Cooking one pancake at a time allows you to give them space to cook evenly
- Flip and finish cooking:
- Watch for bubbles forming on top of the pancake and edges looking set before flipping Carefully turn over and cook until golden brown and cooked through
- Keep warm as you finish:
- Transfer cooked pancakes to an oven safe plate and cover loosely to keep them warm in the oven while the rest cook ensuring every pancake is served hot and tender
Sweet potato is my favorite ingredient here because it adds moisture texture and a subtle sweetness that elevates regular pancakes to a new level. I remember the first time I served these pancakes to my family& the kids were thrilled by the color and taste and begged for seconds which made breakfast feel like a celebration.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. For longer storage wrap batches individually in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to two months. When ready to eat thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the dairy-free milk with any plant-based option or regular milk if desired. If you do not have pureed sweet potato on hand cooked mashed but unsweetened pumpkin or butternut squash works well too. Ground chia seeds make a great replacement for flax seeds as a binder and source of omega 3 fats. Feel free to use honey or agave syrup as a substitute for maple syrup depending on your personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
These pancakes pair wonderfully with a dollop of coconut yogurt or nut butter for added richness. Fresh fruits such as blueberries sliced bananas or apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon enhance the flavors beautifully. Drizzle with extra maple syrup or a spoonful of berry compote for a more indulgent treat.
Enjoy these pancakes warm with your favorite toppings for a nourishing start to your day. The balance of flavors and textures makes every bite a delight.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What flour works best for gluten free pancakes?
A gluten free flour blend is ideal as it provides structure similar to regular flour, ensuring light and fluffy pancakes.
- → Can I substitute coconut oil with another oil?
Yes, any neutral-flavored oil like vegetable or canola oil works well and helps keep the pancakes tender.
- → How does sweet potato affect the texture?
Pureed sweet potato adds moisture and natural sweetness, resulting in soft and slightly dense pancakes with a pleasant bite.
- → Why are ground flax seeds included?
Ground flax seeds help bind the ingredients, improving texture and adding a mild nutty flavor and extra fiber.
- → What spices complement sweet potato in pancakes?
Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic warm spices that enhance the earthy sweetness of sweet potato, creating a cozy flavor profile.