Apple Pancakes
Introduction
There’s something heartwarming about the aroma of apples and warm pancakes wafting through the kitchen.
Apple pancakes combine the sweetness of fresh fruit with the comfort of a hearty breakfast, creating a perfect morning treat that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family or looking for a cozy weekend brunch idea, these fluffy apple pancakes are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
1 apple (grated)
150 g natural yogurt
1 egg
100 g flour (wheat or oat)
1 teaspoon baking powder
Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla essence for extra flavor
Instructions
Start by washing and grating the apple. There’s no need to peel it unless you prefer a smoother texture.
Place the grated apple into a large mixing bowl where all the ingredients will come together.
Add the natural yogurt and the egg to the grated apple. Using a whisk or fork, mix them thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This forms the wet base of the batter.
Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the wet ingredients. This helps avoid lumps and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent, which is key to getting that fluffy texture.
Gently fold the flour into the mixture using a spatula or spoon. Mix until you get a thick, smooth batter.
If you’re adding cinnamon or vanilla essence, stir them in at this point for extra flavor.
Preheat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. If you prefer, lightly grease the surface with a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness.
Spoon small portions of the batter into the pan, forming evenly sized circles. Cook each pancake for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side.
then carefully flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until both sides are golden brown.
Once all pancakes are cooked, serve them warm. They’re delightful on their own, but even better with a drizzle of honey, a handful of fresh fruit, a spoonful of yogurt, or a dusting of cinnamon.
How to Make
To begin making these apple pancakes, select a firm and slightly sweet apple variety like Gala or Fuji.
Grate the apple using the coarse side of a grater, and place the shreds into a large bowl. This helps ensure the apple’s juices contribute moisture to the batter.
Next, add the yogurt and egg to the grated apple. Whisk the mixture until everything is well integrated. The yogurt adds creaminess and a subtle tang that complements the apple’s sweetness.
Now it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Sifting the flour and baking powder directly into the bowl prevents clumping and gives the batter a light texture.
Use either wheat or oat flour, depending on your dietary preference or what you have on hand.
Mix the batter gently. Overmixing can make pancakes tough, so stir just until the flour disappears into the wet mixture.
If you’re adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla essence, do it at this stage.
Place a non-stick frying pan on medium heat. If desired, brush the surface with a little butter or oil for extra flavor and to help with even browning.
Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the hot pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed until small bubbles appear on the surface.
Flip them carefully to cook the other side to a beautiful golden brown.
Once cooked, serve immediately. Warm apple pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, when they’re at their fluffiest. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy a simple yet satisfying homemade breakfast.
Variations
To make your pancakes more indulgent, consider adding a small handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter.
The chocolate pairs beautifully with the apple, creating a dessert-like twist on a classic breakfast.
If you enjoy a spiced flavor, add a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. These warming spices bring out the apple’s natural sweetness and add depth to every bite.
For a dairy-free version, replace the yogurt with a plant-based alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt.
Similarly, use a flaxseed egg or other egg substitute if needed for a vegan-friendly batch.
Try experimenting with different fruit additions. Pears or mashed bananas can be used alongside or instead of the apple for a different taste and texture.
You can also mix in some finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and richness. Toast the nuts first for an extra flavor boost.
Make a savory version by omitting the sweet elements and adding herbs and a pinch of salt. This works well as a base for topping with cheese or smoked salmon.
Switch up the flour by using almond, spelt, or buckwheat flour to create unique flavor profiles and accommodate different dietary needs.
Tips
Use a firm apple variety so that it holds up well when grated and cooked. Too soft an apple may release too much moisture and alter the batter’s consistency.
Don’t skip the step of sifting the flour and baking powder. It ensures even mixing and contributes to a fluffy pancake texture.
Allow the batter to rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking. This helps the flour absorb the moisture and results in a smoother, thicker batter.
If the batter seems too thick after resting, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it slightly. Conversely, if it’s too thin, a bit more flour will help firm it up.
Cook the pancakes on medium heat rather than high. This ensures they cook through without burning on the outside.
Use a ladle or large spoon to portion out consistent pancake sizes. This helps with even cooking and presentation.
To keep pancakes warm while making the full batch, place them in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C) on a baking tray until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Apple pancakes are a comforting and wholesome way to start your day.
They blend the natural sweetness of apples with the creaminess of yogurt and the warmth of optional spices, creating a breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
With simple ingredients and a flexible recipe, these pancakes can be easily tailored to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
Whether enjoyed plain, with fruit, or a drizzle of honey, they’re a delightful addition to any morning table.