Apple Pancakes

Share the flavor, share the love.

What could be better than waking up to the sweet aroma of apple pancakes wafting through your kitchen? These fluffy delights, packed with tender chunks of fresh apples and a hint of cinnamon, are sure to make your breakfast experience heavenly. Perfect for a lazy weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Let’s dive into how you can create these delightful apple pancakes from scratch!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This apple pancake recipe stands out because of its simplicity and the comforting flavors it brings to your breakfast table. The combination of warm milk, fluffy batter, and fresh apples create a delightful texture that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. With just the right amount of sweetness, you can enjoy these pancakes as is or elevate them with your favorite toppings. They are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups milk (I used 2%, warm)
• 1 large egg
• ½ stick unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and cut into small chunks
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)

How To Make Apple Pancakes

Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients

Begin by in a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is key to fluffy pancakes.

Step 2: Combining the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the warm milk, large egg, melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well combined. The warmth of the milk helps to melt the butter, creating a smooth mixture.

Step 3: Mixing it All Together

Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or a whisk, gently fold the mixture together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine, and they will help keep the pancakes tender.

Step 4: Adding the Apples

Gently fold in the small chunks of apple into the batter. The apples will soften as the pancakes cook, providing bursts of flavor in each bite.

Step 5: Cooking the Pancakes

Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. Once hot, use a ladle or measuring cup to pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet. Cook until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 6: Serving the Pancakes

Place the cooked pancakes on a plate and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve them warm, perhaps with syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon and more sliced apples on top.

Expert Tips

• For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
• Make sure your apples are fresh for the best flavor and texture; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work particularly well.
• If you’re making pancakes for a crowd, keep the cooked pancakes warm in an oven set to 200°F until ready to serve.
• Experiment with different types of milk such as almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Variations and Customizations

• Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate cranberries or raisins for a sweet and tart twist.
• Top the pancakes with a scoop of yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a refreshing breakfast.
• Substitute the apples with other fruits such as bananas or berries for different flavor profiles.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the toaster or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer for a quick breakfast!

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Certainly! Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in denser pancakes. You may want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. However, it’s best to cook the pancakes soon after mixing to ensure they are light and fluffy.

What toppings do you recommend for apple pancakes?

Some great toppings include maple syrup, caramel sauce, whipped cream, additional diced apples, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.

How can I make these pancakes vegan?

To make these pancakes vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative, and use a vegan butter substitute instead of unsalted butter.

Conclusion

These apple pancakes are more than just a breakfast choice; they are a delightful way to start your day. With their warm, sweet aromas and comforting flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy them plain or experiment with different toppings, these fluffy stacks of apple goodness will bring joy to your breakfast table every time. So grab your apples, a warm skillet, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!

Share the flavor, share the love.