Fall has always felt like a warm hug to me, especially when the scent of cinnamon fills the air. Nothing beats the cozy feeling of a hearty breakfast on a crisp morning, and that’s exactly what inspired this recipe.
I’m so excited to share my recipe for the best Apple Cinnamon Pancakes; a breakfast that’s both comforting and bursting with delicious fall flavors. It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
- Extra Fluffy Texture: These pancakes are light and airy, making every bite a delight.
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness and Spice: The cinnamon and apples create a warm, inviting flavor that isn’t overly sweet.
- Easy Cleanup: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, cleaning up is a breeze.
- Homemade Apple Topping: This recipe elevates your pancakes with a homemade apple cinnamon topping that melts in your mouth.
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
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
Apple Selection: Choosing the Perfect Apple for Your Pancakes
Choosing the right apple can truly elevate your Apple Cinnamon Pancakes! Sweetness, tartness, and texture all play a role in the final flavor. A softer apple will cook down more readily into the topping, whereas a firmer apple will maintain its shape. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the perfect apple:
| Apple Variety | Flavor Profile | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Honeycrisp | Sweet, crisp, and juicy | Pancakes and topping; holds shape |
| Granny Smith | Tart and slightly acidic | Adds a tangy contrast to sweetness |
| Fuji | Very sweet and juicy | Ideal for a sweeter topping |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
- 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). Don’t forget to take a picture to show the batter having 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.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Topping
- Add butter, 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.
Topping Variations for Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
Want to mix things up? Here are a few topping variations to try! If you’re looking for another delicious breakfast option, you might enjoy these Banana Oat Breakfast Bars.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Glaze
- Description: A tangy and sweet glaze that complements the apple cinnamon flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined.
- Stir in cinnamon.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Drizzle over warm pancakes.
Maple Pecan Sauce
- Description: A nutty and rich sauce that adds a delightful crunch.
- Ingredients:
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Pinch of salt
- Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, butter, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until butter is melted.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Spoon over warm pancakes.
Dietary Modifications: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Vegan Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
| Restriction | Original Ingredient | Suggested Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | All-purpose flour | Gluten-free all-purpose blend |
| Dairy-Free | Milk | Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk |
| Vegan | Egg | Flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) |
Why Buttermilk is Important
Buttermilk is a pancake MVP, adding a tangy flavor and tender crumb. The acidity in buttermilk helps to break down gluten, resulting in a softer, more delicate pancake.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, my recipe uses a simple alternative: milk and vinegar. When combined, the vinegar curdles the milk, mimicking the acidity of buttermilk and providing a similar effect.
This reaction creates lactic acid, which not only tenderizes the batter but also adds a subtle tang. It’s science in action, making your pancakes extra delicious!
Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
I’ve made a lot of pancakes in my day, so let me share a few secrets I’ve learned. First, don’t be afraid to experiment with your skillet temperature. I find 275 degrees works well, but every stove is different. For perfectly round pancakes, try using a ladle to pour the batter.
To prevent sticking, I always use a non-stick skillet and a light coating of cooking spray. If your batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Check out some other great breakfast recipes here if you liked this one.
Storing and Reheating Your Pancakes
To keep your pancakes tasting their best, store them and the apple topping separately. Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Store the apple topping in a separate airtight container, also in the refrigerator. To reheat the pancakes, I recommend using a toaster oven or a skillet over low heat. This helps to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
While maple syrup is a classic choice, there are so many other ways to enjoy these pancakes! I love pairing them with crispy bacon or sausage for a sweet and savory breakfast.
A dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of homemade whipped cream also adds a creamy element that complements the warm apple cinnamon flavors.
Troubleshooting Common Pancake Problems
Q: Why are my pancakes flat?
A: This can happen if your batter is too thin or your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are old. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, and try adding a tablespoon of flour to thicken the batter.
Q: Why are my pancakes rubbery?
A: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough pancakes. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
Q: Why are my pancakes burning on the outside but still raw on the inside?
A: Your skillet is likely too hot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the pancakes for a bit longer on each side.
Nutrition Information
(Note: Nutrition information is an estimate only.)
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes with topping
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: I recommend making the batter fresh for the best results, but you can prepare it up to an hour in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir before cooking.
Q: Can I freeze the pancakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Conclusion
There you have it, my recipe for the best Apple Cinnamon Pancakes! These pancakes are so easy to make, and they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face on a cozy morning. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do.
Now, I want to hear from you! What are your favorite pancake toppings? Leave a comment below and let me know how your Apple Cinnamon Pancakes turned out. I can’t wait to read your thoughts and answer any questions you might have!
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Apple Cinnamon Pancakes: Delicious and Easy!
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). Don’t forget to take a picture to show the batter having 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 butter, 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.
