Cozy Autumn Sunday Mornings and Pancakes

 A hygge-inspired autumn pancake breakfast is like wrapping yourself in the warmth of a soft, well-loved blanket, surrounded by the rich colors and scents of fall. The golden pancakes, stacked high and steaming, are imbued with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and warm spices. The table is set simply, yet thoughtfully — candles flicker gently, casting a soft glow across the room as amber leaves dance outside the window.

The air is filled with the comforting scent of cinnamon, mingling with the aroma of maple syrup and toasted nuts. Cozy sweaters and woolen socks add to the feeling of ease, as mugs of steaming tea or coffee sit beside plates, promising warmth with every sip.

As you sit down with loved ones, time seems to slow. The crackling of a nearby fire, the satisfying crunch of nuts, and the softness of the pancakes melt away the outside world, if only for a little while. Laughter, conversation, and quiet moments of reflection intermingle, all under the umbrella of togetherness, contentment, and the simple pleasures that make up the heart of hygge.

This is more than breakfast—it's a small, perfect moment of coziness, where each bite feels like autumn itself.

Here's a recipe for gluten-free, healthy superfood pumpkin spice pancakes that are packed with nutrients while staying delicious and comforting.

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup gluten-free oat flour (you can blend gluten-free oats into a fine flour)

• 1/4 cup almond flour  (for added protein and fiber)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1 tbsp pumpkin spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)

• Pinch of sea salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (this reacts with the baking soda for fluffiness)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds (for added omega-3s and fiber)

Optional Superfoods:

• 1-2 tbsp hemp seeds or chia seeds for extra protein and healthy fats

• 1 tbsp turmeric

  

  
  
  

• A small handful of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for texture

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin spice, and sea salt.

2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, almond milk, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, and flaxseeds/chia seeds. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the flax or chia to thicken.

3. Combine wet and dry: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If the batter is too thick, add a little more almond milk.

4. Cook the pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease lightly with coconut oil or olive oil spray. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter per pancake onto the pan. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes.

5. Serve: Top your pumpkin spice pancakes with your favorite healthy toppings like fresh fruit, a sprinkle of nuts, or a drizzle of more maple syrup.

Superfood Topping Ideas for your pancakes:

• Sliced bananas or berries for extra antioxidants.

• Nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew) for healthy fats and added protein.

• A sprinkle of cacao nibs or coconut flakes.

These pancakes are nutrient-packed and perfect for a fall breakfast that keeps you energized while staying gluten-free and healthy!