Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re searching for a cozy, delightful breakfast that perfectly captures the spirit of the season, look no further than Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting. These fluffy, spiced pancakes layered with a luscious and tangy cream cheese frosting bring together warmth and sweetness in every bite. Whether it’s a festive brunch or a sweet treat any day, this recipe is an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of flavors: The warm spices in the gingerbread pancakes complement the tangy cream cheese frosting for an unforgettable taste.
• Quick and easy to make: Using simple ingredients and straightforward steps means you can whip these up any time with little fuss.
• Fun and festive presentation: Mini stacks are adorable and perfect for sharing, making them a great centerpiece for holiday mornings or special occasions.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices or frosting to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the mini size and sweet flavors, making breakfast exciting and inviting for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, from creating the fluffy texture of the pancakes to infusing them with classic gingerbread spices and ensuring the cream cheese frosting is rich and creamy. These pantry staples come together to craft an irresistible dish.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the pancakes and the perfect base for the gingerbread flavor.
• Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves: These spices give the pancakes their signature warm and aromatic essence.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to make the pancakes light and fluffy.
• Brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness that enhances the gingerbread taste.
• Molasses: The soul of gingerbread, giving pancakes their rich, dark color and complex flavor.
• Milk and buttermilk: Provide moisture and tenderness, balancing richness and acidity to activate the leavening agents.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding extra fluffiness.
• Butter: Adds richness and keeps pancakes tender and moist.
• Cream cheese: The base for a smooth and tangy frosting that contrasts beautifully with the sweet spices.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of both the pancakes and the frosting with a sweet, floral note.

Variations for Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to make these stacks your own by tweaking ingredients or adding extra flair. The recipe is flexible, and small modifications can cater to different tastes or dietary goals without losing the essence of the dish.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for an allergy-friendly version.
• Dairy-free frosting: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut or almond milk to create a luscious dairy-free cream cheese frosting.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the pancake batter for an extra layer of warmth.
• Orange zest: Fold in fresh orange zest to the batter or frosting for a bright citrus twist that complements the spices.
• Chocolate chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter before cooking for a chocolatey surprise.

How to Make Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and brown sugar. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, molasses, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough pancakes, so keep it light and fluffy.

Step 2: Cook the Mini Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Pour small 2-3 inch dollops of batter onto the skillet, leaving space between each. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat until all batter is used.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the pancakes cool slightly, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The frosting should spread easily but hold its shape enough to stack.

Step 4: Assemble the Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting

Place one mini pancake on a serving plate and spread a spoonful of cream cheese frosting on top. Layer another pancake and repeat until you build a stack about 3-4 pancakes tall. Finish the stack with a generous dollop of frosting and an optional sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for texture and color.

Pro Tips for Making Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Temperature control: Ensure your griddle is at medium heat to cook pancakes evenly without burning.
• Don’t overmix: Stir batter until just combined to keep pancakes tender and airy.
• Soft cream cheese: Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
• Consistent sizing: Use a small measuring cup or ice cream scoop to create uniform mini pancakes for pretty stacks.
• Keep pancakes warm: Store cooked pancakes in a low oven (around 200°F) covered lightly with foil to maintain warmth and moisture before stacking.

How to Serve Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Top your stacks with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, or even chopped crystallized ginger for a burst of texture. Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds add a pop of color and tartness that pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting.

Side Dishes

Serve these mini stacks alongside warm spiced apple slices, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit salad to balance savory and sweet flavors. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey on the side complements both the pancakes and frosting perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these mini pancakes on skewers for a fun twist at brunch gatherings or build tiny pancake towers paired with a small glass of spiced cider. Plating them on rustic wooden boards or festive platters adds charm and makes the experience feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover mini pancakes completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cream cheese frosting separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw pancakes in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat pancakes gently in a toaster, oven, or microwave. If using a microwave, add a damp paper towel on top to keep them moist. Once warmed, assemble with fresh or chilled cream cheese frosting before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! The frosting can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using to restore its creamy texture.

Are these pancakes healthy?

While these are a treat with sugar and butter, you can lighten the recipe using alternative sweeteners or reducing sugar, and opt for whole wheat flour for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use regular pancakes instead of mini ones?

You can, but the charm of this recipe is in the mini stacks that encourage layering and sharing. Regular-sized pancakes will work but may need adjustments in frosting quantity.

What if I don’t have molasses?

If you’re out of molasses, you can substitute with dark maple syrup or honey, keeping in mind the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum, ensuring texture and rise stay consistent for fluffy pancakes.

Final Thoughts

Mini Gingerbread Pancake Stacks with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings warmth, sweetness, and festive flair to your breakfast table. Easy to make and endlessly charming, they’re sure to become a beloved favorite for weekends, holidays, or whenever you need a little extra joy in your morning. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy comfort of gingerbread pancakes with a creamy twist!

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