Ingredients:

For the Pancakes:

• Pumpkin – 600 g (approx. 2 ½ cups, cooked and pureed)
• Milk – 100 ml (approx. ⅓ cup)
• Eggs – 6 large
• Sugar – 60 g (approx. ¼ cup)
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Milk – 500 ml (approx. 2 cups)
• Water – 500 ml (approx. 2 cups)
• Sunflower oil – 100 ml (approx. ⅓ cup, plus extra for cooking)
• Yeast – 2 tbsp (active dry yeast)
• Flour – 700 g (approx. 5 ½ cups)
• Cling film (for covering dough)

For the Dill Garlic Sauce:

• Fresh dill – 30 g (about ⅓ cup, chopped)
• Garlic – 3 cloves (minced)
• Sour cream (20%) – 200 g (approx. ¾ cup)
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Sunflower oil – 1-2 tsp

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Purée

1. Begin by peeling and cubing the pumpkin. Boil or steam the pumpkin until it is tender, around 10-15 minutes.
2. Once soft, drain any excess water, then mash or blend the pumpkin until smooth. Set aside and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. In a bowl, mix the active dry yeast with 500 ml of warm water. Add a pinch of sugar to activate the yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the sugar has mostly dissolved.
2. Add 100 ml of milk and sunflower oil to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined.
3. Add the cooled pumpkin purée, mixing until you have a smooth, consistent batter.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

1. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the remaining 500 ml of milk. Stir gently until smooth and lump-free.
3. Add the foamy yeast mixture to the batter, folding gently until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Let the Batter Rise

1. Cover the bowl with cling film or a clean cloth and let the batter rest in a warm place for 40 minutes. The batter should double in size and have a light, airy texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Dill Garlic Sauce

1. While the batter is resting, prepare the sauce by combining the chopped dill, minced garlic, sour cream, and salt in a bowl. Add a small amount of sunflower oil for a silkier consistency if desired.
2. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve. This sauce will intensify in flavor as it sits.

Step 7: Cook the Pancakes

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little sunflower oil.
2. Pour small scoops of the pancake batter onto the skillet, forming round pancakes. Cook each pancake for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and fluffy.
3. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding oil as needed.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the pancakes warm, drizzled with the creamy dill garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.
2. Bon Appetit!

Preparation Time:

• Active Preparation: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 40 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 20 minutes

Total Time:

• 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings:

• Makes approximately 10 servings

Calories (per serving):

• Approximately 220 kcal

Fluffy Pumpkin Yeast Pancakes are inspired by traditional Eastern European recipes that use pumpkin and yeast to create light, airy pancakes with a beautiful golden color. The inclusion of pumpkin gives the pancakes a natural sweetness and moisture, while the yeast provides an extra fluffiness. The dill garlic sauce adds a fresh, tangy component, making this recipe a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. This recipe, rich in tradition and heartwarming flavors, feels familiar yet offers something new and unique. The use of simple ingredients and seasonal produce ensures that these pancakes remain a beloved, versatile choice for breakfast or any cozy meal throughout the seasons.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approximate):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin purée can be used as a substitute. Ensure it is 100% pumpkin with no added spices or sugars.

Q: Can I make the pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, a gluten-free flour blend can replace all-purpose flour. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for better texture.

Q: Can the sauce be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will develop more as it sits.

Q: Can I freeze these pancakes?
Yes, these pancakes freeze well. Place parchment paper between each pancake and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or toaster for best results.

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Pancakes:

1. Use Warm Ingredients:
   Warm milk and water will help the yeast activate more effectively, giving the batter a better rise.
2. Don’t Over-Mix the Batter:
   After adding the yeast mixture, gently fold the batter to retain as much air as possible for fluffier pancakes.
3. Let the Batter Rise Fully:
   Allow the batter to rest until it has doubled in size. This will ensure the pancakes are light and airy.
4. Cook on Low to Medium Heat:
   Cooking on lower heat ensures the pancakes cook evenly and develop a golden crust without burning.
5. Serve Fresh for Best Flavor:
   These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the pan.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce can also be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Defrost at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Conclusion:

Fluffy Pumpkin Yeast Pancakes with Creamy Dill Garlic Sauce combine the sweetness of pumpkin with the lightness of yeast to create a pancake that’s both comforting and unique. Perfect for cozy mornings, brunch gatherings, or a delightful snack, these pancakes bring warmth and seasonal flavor to any table. The addition of a creamy dill and garlic sauce not only enhances the taste but also provides a savory contrast to the pancake’s mild sweetness. Simple, nourishing, and visually appealing, this timeless recipe is a great choice for home cooks who want a little twist on traditional pancakes. Try it for yourself and enjoy the seasonal flavors with family and friends!