Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Griddle Cooking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
These Apple Pancakes are fluffy treats captured in warm, autumn flavors-perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings.
As the crisp autumn air settles in New York City, the streets become ensconced in colorful foliage, and I'm reminded of the cozy mornings spent in my kitchen, savoring warm, fluffy pancakes flavored with the season's bounty-apples. These Apple Pancakes are not only a delightful weekend treat but also a perfect dish to serve when hosting friends and family during Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. So let's dive into this delicious recipe that encapsulates fall!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm, fluffy pancakes that capture the essence of fall with delicious apple flavor.
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for a comforting weekend breakfast or holiday brunch.
- Customizable with toppings like maple syrup, walnuts, or even a side of bacon.
- Made with wholesome ingredients that come together to create lasting memories.
- Leftovers freeze well for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
Ingredients
Gather the following simple ingredients to make these delightful Apple Pancakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and grated
- Extra butter for cooking
How to Make Apple Pancakes (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy instructions to whip up a batch of delicious Apple Pancakes:
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The dry ingredients should feel soft and fluffy, and you'll get a whiff of the baking soda's slight bitterness.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, and you can see the melted butter glistening among the other ingredients.
Step 3: Grate the Apple
Grate your apple directly into the wet mixture. I like to leave the skin on for extra fiber and color-this adds a rustic charm to the pancakes.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently. The batter should be slightly lumpy-that's perfect! Overmixing will lead to dense pancakes, and nobody wants that.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small pat of butter. Once it's melted, spoon a half-cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake, and watch for tiny bubbles to form on the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fluffy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: This leads to tough pancakes. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Not Preheating Your Pan: If the skillet isn't hot enough, your pancakes may turn out pale and undercooked.
- Using Too Much Flour: Always spoon and level your flour when measuring to ensure the right pancake texture.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dry ingredients or mix in some chopped pecans for extra crunch.
- If you want to prepare these pancakes ahead of time, you can cook them and keep them warm in a low oven while you finish the rest of the batch.
- These pancakes freeze well, so make a big batch and pack them between sheets of parchment in an airtight container for an easy breakfast option later.
Variations
- Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Use almond milk or oat milk instead of buttermilk for a dairy-free version.
- Add caramelized apples on top for an indulgent treat.
- Incorporate blueberries or cranberries for added flavor and color.
How to Serve
- Serve the pancakes piping hot from the griddle, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Garnish with toasted walnuts or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a delightful contrast.
- Include a side of crispy bacon for a savory delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Cook the pancakes and keep them warm in a low oven while finishing the rest.
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat pancakes in the toaster or microwave for a quick meal.
- Freezing: Freeze pancakes for up to a month, reheating straight from the freezer.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing this Apple Pancakes recipe has reinforced my belief in the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients. It's not only about filling your stomach; it's about creating warming memories that come alive in every bite, especially during the chilly seasons we treasure in New York City. Enjoy these pancakes with loved ones for a comforting start to your day!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 8 pancakes · Serving Size: 2 pancakes
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~200 calories · 5g protein · 30g carbs · 8g fat
Recipe by:
Fluffy Apple Pancakes for a Cozy Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Grate your apple directly into the wet mixture.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter, spoon a half-cup of batter onto the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar as a substitute for buttermilk. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and help the pancakes rise.
How can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Apple Pancakes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount to mimic the texture of traditional pancakes.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
While it's best to cook the batter fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours for the best results.
