Name: Warm, Botanical Spiced Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12-14 pancakes
Ingredients: 1½ Cups (190g) All-Purpose Flour; 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar; 1 Tbsp Baking Powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; Pinch of Salt; 2 tsp Ground Ginger; 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon; ¼ tsp Ground Cloves; ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg; 2 Large Eggs; ¾ Cup (190ml) Whole Milk; ½ Stick (65g) Unsalted Butter, melted, plus more for cooking; 2 Tbsp Unsulphured Dark Molasses; 1 Tbsp Non-Alcoholic Gin Extract; ½ tsp Pure Vanilla Extract

Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe – are you ready to transform your morning routine into an extraordinary culinary experience? Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of warm spices mingling with a subtle, sophisticated hint of juniper. Forget mundane breakfasts; today, we’re embarking on a delightful journey to elevate a beloved classic into something truly special. This isn’t just another pancake recipe; it’s an invitation to indulge in a symphony of flavors that evoke cozy memories while introducing an intriguing, grown-up twist.

Gingerbread, with its rich history dating back centuries, has long been a symbol of celebration and warmth, particularly cherished during the festive season. Its deep, molasses-infused sweetness and fiery ginger kick have captivated palates across cultures, offering comfort in every bite. Our innovative approach respects this cherished tradition, infusing that familiar gingerbread charm into light, fluffy pancakes. What makes this rendition truly unique is the ingenious addition of gin extract, which imparts a complex, aromatic note without any alcohol, making these pancakes a perfect treat for everyone. This Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe is the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and modern sophistication.

People adore this particular Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe because it offers an unparalleled taste experience: the pillowy softness of perfectly cooked pancakes provides the ideal canvas for the robust flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all harmonized by the distinctive, bright essence of gin extract. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new, perfect for a festive brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or whenever you desire a touch of culinary magic. Prepare to delight your senses and impress your loved ones with this unforgettable morning masterpiece!

Ingredients:

For the Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or light brown sugar for deeper flavor)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups (300ml) whole milk (or buttermilk for extra fluffiness)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled, plus more for greasing the griddle
- 2 tablespoons unsulphured dark molasses
- 1 tablespoon good quality gin (I love a classic London Dry here, but anything you enjoy will work!)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Gin-Infused Maple Syrup (Optional, but highly recommended!):
- 1 cup (240ml) pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons good quality gin
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Whipped cream or crème fraîche
- Candied ginger pieces, finely chopped
- Fresh orange or lemon zest
- Crispy bacon (for a sweet and savory delight!)

Preparing the Dry Ingredients: The Aromatic Foundation

Let’s kick things off by setting the stage for these delightful Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes. The careful measurement and combination of dry ingredients are absolutely crucial for achieving that signature gingerbread flavor and the perfect pancake texture. Trust me, every little bit counts here!

First, grab a large mixing bowl – you’ll want plenty of room for all the magic that’s about to happen. Into this bowl, we’re going to sift or, at the very least, vigorously whisk together our all-purpose flour, granulated sugar (or light brown sugar, which I personally adore for its subtle caramel notes that complement the gingerbread so well), baking powder, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Sifting isn’t just for fancy bakers; it genuinely helps to aerate the flour and ensures there are no lumps, leading to a much smoother batter and lighter pancakes. If you don’t have a sifter, a good old whisk will do the trick just fine; just make sure you whisk really well for about 30 seconds to a minute.
Now comes the star of the show: the spices! Add your ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg to the dry mixture. This is where the “gingerbread” in “Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe” truly comes alive. The aroma alone will start making your kitchen smell incredibly festive and inviting. Whisk these spices thoroughly into the dry ingredients. You want them to be perfectly distributed so that every bite of your pancake delivers that wonderful, warm spice hit. This step is about more than just combining; it’s about infusing every particle of flour with those beautiful aromas. Set this bowl aside for now, anticipating its glorious future.

Combining Wet Ingredients: The Heart of the Batter

With our dry ingredients patiently waiting, it’s time to bring together the wet components. This blend is what will give our Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes their luscious texture and that subtle, intriguing hint of gin that makes this recipe so special. Make sure all your wet ingredients are at room temperature if possible, especially the egg and milk, as this helps them emulsify better and creates a smoother, more consistent batter.

In a separate, medium-sized mixing bowl, crack your large egg. Give it a quick whisk to break up the yolk and white. Then, pour in your whole milk. If you’re feeling adventurous and want an even fluffier, slightly tangy pancake, buttermilk is a fantastic substitute here. The acidity in buttermilk reacts wonderfully with the baking soda, giving you an extra lift.
Next, we’ll introduce our melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter. It’s important that the butter isn’t too hot, as we don’t want to scramble the egg! Once that’s in, measure out your unsulphured dark molasses. This ingredient is non-negotiable for true gingerbread flavor; it provides depth, richness, and that characteristic dark color.
Now for the star liquor: the gin! Carefully measure out your tablespoon of good quality gin. This isn’t just about a boozy kick; the gin actually enhances and brightens the complex spice notes, adding an unexpected layer of sophistication to our Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes. Don’t be shy, but also don’t go overboard – a tablespoon is just right for a subtle, aromatic presence.
Finally, add your pure vanilla extract. Vanilla works wonders in rounding out flavors and adding a hint of sweetness. Whisk all these wet ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and uniform in color. You’re looking for a smooth, homogenous mixture with no streaks of molasses or butter visible. This ensures that every drop of flavor is evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Mixing the Batter: The Art of Combination

Now for the exciting part – bringing the wet and dry elements together to form our pancake batter. This step is critical for achieving light, fluffy pancakes, and there’s one golden rule here: do not overmix!

Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. This little crater will be the perfect receiving spot for your wet mixture. Slowly pour all of your combined wet ingredients directly into this well.
Using a whisk or a rubber spatula, begin to gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry. Start from the center and gradually incorporate the flour from the sides. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. You’re looking for a batter that still has a few small lumps in it. Yes, you read that right – a few lumps are perfectly fine and even desired! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which will lead to tough, chewy pancakes rather than the soft, fluffy ones we’re aiming for with this Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe. The moment you see no dry streaks of flour, stop mixing.
Allow the batter to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period is a small but mighty step. It gives the baking powder and baking soda a chance to activate, allows the flour to fully hydrate, and helps to relax the gluten, resulting in an even more tender and airy pancake. While it rests, you can start preparing your griddle or pan.

Preparing the Gin-Infused Maple Syrup (Highly Recommended Enhancement)

While the pancake batter is resting, this is the perfect opportunity to whip up our special Gin-Infused Maple Syrup. This syrup takes your Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes from delicious to absolutely unforgettable, echoing the gin and gingerbread flavors beautifully.

In a small saucepan, combine the pure maple syrup, good quality gin, ground ginger, and a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. You don’t want a rolling boil; just a soft bubble or two to ensure the flavors meld together and any harsh alcohol notes from the gin mellow slightly. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes. This process allows the spices to infuse deeply into the syrup and the gin to subtly release its botanical aromas.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Give it a taste (carefully, it’s hot!) and adjust spices if you wish. Some people like a stronger ginger kick, others prefer more cinnamon. Keep it warm until ready to serve, or let it cool slightly. This syrup can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just warm it gently before serving.

Cooking the Pancakes: Golden Perfection

The moment of truth! Cooking these Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes to a beautiful golden-brown perfection requires a little patience and the right temperature. Don’t rush this part; a perfectly cooked pancake is worth the wait.

Heat a large non-stick griddle or heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium heat. It’s crucial to get the temperature just right. Too low, and your pancakes will be tough and greasy; too high, and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through. You can test the temperature by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate within a couple of seconds.
Lightly grease the griddle with a tiny bit of butter or cooking spray. You want a very thin layer to prevent sticking and encourage even browning. If you use too much butter, the pancakes can become greasy.
Using a ¼ cup measuring cup or a large ladle, pour the batter onto the hot griddle. Leave enough space between each pancake, as they will spread slightly. I usually cook 2-3 pancakes at a time, depending on the size of my pan.
Cook for 2-4 minutes on the first side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when you see bubbles appearing on the surface of the pancake, and the edges look set and slightly dry. The underside should be a beautiful golden-brown. This is a key visual cue for perfect Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes!
Carefully flip the pancakes with a wide spatula and cook for another 1-3 minutes on the second side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Gently press down on them to ensure even cooking, but don’t flatten them entirely, or you’ll lose that lovely fluffy texture.
Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate. If you’re cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 200°F / 95°C) while you finish the rest of the batter. Continue with the remaining batter, lightly re-greasing the griddle between batches if needed.

Assembling and Serving: The Grand Finale

Now for the rewarding part: transforming your perfectly cooked Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes into a magnificent breakfast or brunch spread. This is where you get to unleash your inner food stylist!

Stack your warm Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes high on a serving plate. A tall stack is not only visually appealing but also a promise of deliciousness.
Drizzle generously with your warm Gin-Infused Maple Syrup. Don’t be shy; this syrup is truly the crowning glory of this Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe. The way it slowly glazes down the sides of the pancakes is simply irresistible.
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, dust the entire stack lightly with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve. This adds a beautiful snowy finish.
Dollop a generous spoonful of fresh whipped cream or a sophisticated quenelle of crème fraîche on top of the stack. The creamy coolness provides a wonderful contrast to the warm, spicy pancakes.
Sprinkle with finely chopped candied ginger pieces for an additional chewy texture and concentrated ginger kick. A little zest from an orange or lemon offers a bright, aromatic lift that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Serve immediately and enjoy the fruits of your labor! These Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes are best savored fresh off the griddle, when they’re at their fluffiest and most aromatic. This unique Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe is perfect for a special weekend breakfast or a festive holiday brunch, sure to impress anyone who tries them. You’ve created something truly special and memorable!

Conclusion:

Well, my fellow culinary adventurers, we’ve reached the sweet, spicy, and utterly delightful end of our journey into the world of the Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe. If you’ve followed along, you’re now armed with the knowledge to create something truly extraordinary – a breakfast or brunch experience that transcends the ordinary and ventures into the realm of the unforgettable. I genuinely believe this recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s an invitation to savor unique flavors, embrace cozy comforts, and impress anyone lucky enough to share a plate with you.

Why is this a must-try, you ask? Beyond the obvious fact that it combines two beloved elements – the comforting warmth of gingerbread and the sophisticated botanical notes of gin – it’s the harmony they create that truly sings. Imagine biting into a stack of fluffy, golden pancakes, each mouthful releasing that signature gingerbread spice, perfectly balanced by the subtle, aromatic whisper of gin. It’s not overpowering; instead, the gin extract enhances the spices, adding a layer of complexity and a nuanced finish that plain gingerbread simply can’t achieve. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience, a moment of culinary magic that elevates a simple pancake into a gourmet delight. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday morning, a festive holiday brunch, or whenever you feel like adding a touch of sophisticated whimsy to your day. The aroma alone as they cook will draw everyone to the kitchen, promising a treat that delivers on every sensory level.

Elevate Your Pancake Experience: Serving Suggestions & Flavorful Variations

Now that you’re convinced these pancakes are a game-changer, let’s talk about how to make them even more spectacular. While they are utterly divine on their own, a few thoughtful additions can transform them further:

Classic Comfort: A generous drizzle of pure maple syrup is always a winner. Pair it with a dollop of unsalted butter that slowly melts into the warm stack for a timeless treat.
Whipped Wonders: Elevate your pancakes with a cloud of freshly whipped cream. For an extra touch of sophistication, consider infusing your cream with a tiny splash of gin extract or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest. The citrus notes pair beautifully with gingerbread.
Fruity Freshness: Complement the warmth of the spices with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, or go for caramelized apple or pear slices. A compote of spiced plums or cranberries would also be an exquisite pairing, adding a tart counterpoint to the sweetness.
Textural Delights: A sprinkle of candied ginger or toasted pecans/walnuts can add a wonderful textural contrast and extra layer of flavor.
Savory Sidekick: Don’t be afraid to serve these alongside crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage. The salty and sweet combination is surprisingly addictive and creates a truly satisfying meal.

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider once you’ve mastered the base recipe:

Spice it Up: If you’re a true gingerbread fanatic, feel free to increase the amount of ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. A pinch of black pepper can also add an unexpected, yet delightful, zing.
Gin Experimentation: While the recipe calls for gin extract, if you’re comfortable with a slightly boozier note, you could experiment with a very small amount of a high-quality gin (choose one with prominent botanical notes that complement gingerbread, like orange peel or cardamom). Remember, a little goes a long way!
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in some dark chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for a decadent twist. The bitterness of the chocolate beautifully cuts through the sweetness and spice.
Orange Blossom: Add the zest of one orange directly into the batter for a brighter, more citrusy profile that works wonderfully with both gingerbread and gin.

I truly hope I’ve inspired you to roll up your sleeves and give this Gin Extractgerbread Pancakes Recipe a try. There’s an unparalleled joy in creating something delicious with your own hands, especially when the result is as uniquely flavorful and comforting as these pancakes. Don’t be shy – dive in, experiment with the serving suggestions, and make this recipe your own!

Once you’ve whipped up your batch, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add extra toppings? Did you try a variation? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories on social media, tag us, and let’s spread the pancake love! Your culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see the delicious creations you come up with. Happy flipping!