Apple cinnamon pancakes, the smell alone transports me straight to cozy autumn mornings! There’s something so comforting about the warm spice of cinnamon mixed with sweet apples, all nestled in a fluffy pancake.
This apple cinnamon pancakes recipe is quick, easy, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weekend brunch or even a special weekday breakfast.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
- They’re incredibly easy to make; even a beginner cook can nail this recipe.
- The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a flavor that’s both comforting and irresistible.
- These pancakes are a hit with both kids and adults, making them perfect for family breakfasts.
- They are the perfect taste of Fall.
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 ½ tablespoons vinegar
- 1 cup flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (if you really love cinnamon you can add another ½ teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
- 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
Choosing the Right Apples
The type of apple you use can really influence the flavor and texture of your apple cinnamon pancakes. I like to use a mix of sweet and tart varieties for the perfect balance.
| Apple Variety | Sweetness | Tartness | Texture When Cooked | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith | Low | High | Holds Shape Well | Topping (adds tartness) |
| Honeycrisp | High | Medium | Slightly Softens | Pancakes or Topping (good balance) |
| Fuji | High | Low | Softens | Pancakes (adds sweetness) |
| Gala | Medium | Medium | Softens | Pancakes or Topping |
Buttermilk Substitute
This recipe uses a clever trick to mimic the tang and tenderness that buttermilk adds to pancakes: milk and vinegar!
The vinegar curdles the milk, creating a similar acidity to buttermilk. This acidity helps to break down the gluten in the flour, resulting in more tender pancakes. If you don’t have vinegar, lemon juice works just as well. Alternatively, you can use yogurt or sour cream.
For every 1 cup of milk, use 1 cup of yogurt or sour cream, thinned with a little water until it reaches a milk-like consistency.
For other options for great breakfast items, check out this breakfast & brunch.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pancakes: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat a skillet to medium-high heat (275 degrees).
- Whisk together the milk and vinegar and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
- While milk is curdling, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Whisk egg and oil into milk. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until combined (don’t over-mix, it should still have some lumps).
- Spray skillet with cooking spray. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour batter onto skillet. Cook about 2 minutes until bubbles form and the edges start to look “dry”. Use a spatula to flip the pancake and cook another 1-2 minutes on the other side. Set pancakes aside and repeat with remaining batter.
- Add vegetable shortening, apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon to a medium sauce pan. Stir over medium heat 3-5 minutes until apples are very tender. Stir in syrup. Serve apple topping over warm pancakes.
Tips for Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
The key to achieving the fluffiest apple cinnamon pancakes is to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough, flat pancakes. I like to stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined, leaving some lumps. These lumps will work themselves out during cooking.
For another cookie recipe, check out this Amazing Apple Cider Cookies For Fall Baking.
Variations on Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
Want to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch.
- Fruit Compote: Swirl in a homemade fruit compote (like berries or peaches) for extra flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Mini Pancakes: Make mini pancakes or pancake skewers for a fun and festive presentation.
Serving Suggestions
While maple syrup is a classic choice, there are so many other delicious ways to serve these pancakes! I love topping mine with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts. You can also add other fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.
Troubleshooting Common Pancake Problems
- Pancakes are too flat: This is usually caused by overmixing the batter. Remember to mix until just combined.
- Pancakes are burning on the outside but raw inside: Your skillet is likely too hot. Lower the heat to medium and cook for a bit longer on each side.
- Batter is too lumpy: A few lumps are okay, but if your batter is excessively lumpy, try sifting the dry ingredients before mixing them with the wet ingredients.
Storing Leftover Pancakes
Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster, microwave, or a skillet until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
For another apple recipe idea, try this The Ultimate Apple Cider Chai Tea Latte Recipe.
Can I Make These Pancakes Vegan or Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Here’s how:
| Ingredient | Vegan Substitute | Gluten-Free Substitute |
|---|---|---|
| Egg | Flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) | N/A |
| Milk | Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk | N/A |
| Flour | N/A | Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend |
Nutrition Information
Please note that the nutrition information provided is an estimate only and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. One medium apple provides about 95 calories, 0 gram fat, 1 gram protein, 25 grams carbohydrate, 19 grams sugar (naturally occurring), and 3 grams fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to prevent pancakes from sticking to the griddle/pan?
Make sure your skillet or griddle is properly preheated and use a non-stick cooking spray or a little bit of oil.
What are the best techniques for keeping pancakes warm while cooking multiple batches?
Place the cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a warm oven (about 200 degrees Fahrenheit).
Can you use different types of flour (e.g., almond flour, oat flour) and how does that change the recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different flours, but it will affect the texture and flavor of the pancakes. Almond flour will create a denser pancake, while oat flour will result in a slightly chewier texture. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid depending on the flour you use.
Conclusion
These apple cinnamon pancakes are more than just a recipe; they’re a taste of home, a cozy hug on a plate. They’re easy to make, customizable to your liking, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite pancake toppings? Have you tried any variations on this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your delicious creations! I can’t wait to hear all about it.
Easy Apple Cinnamon Pancakes: The Ultimate Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a skillet to medium-high heat (275 degrees).
- Whisk together the milk and vinegar and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
- While milk is curdling, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Whisk egg and oil into milk. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until combined (don’t over-mix, it should still have some lumps).
- Spray skillet with cooking spray. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour batter onto skillet. Cook about 2 minutes until bubbles form and the edges start to look “dry”. Use a spatula to flip the pancake and cook another 1-2 minutes on the other side. Set pancakes aside and repeat with remaining batter.
- Add vegetable shortening, apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon to a medium sauce pan. Stir over medium heat 3-5 minutes until apples are very tender. Stir in syrup. Serve apple topping over warm pancakes.
Nutrition
Notes
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