Apple Cinnamon Pancakes Recipe: The Perfect Fall Breakfast
Each fluffy stack captures a harmony of tart fruit and spicy warmth in every mouthful.
Apple Cinnamon Pancakes: A Fall Breakfast Classic
There’s something unmistakably comforting about a stack of pancakes, especially when they’re infused with the flavors of tart apples and warm cinnamon. This recipe from The Pioneer Woman elevates the classic pancake by folding in fresh grated Granny Smith apples and a generous dose of cinnamon, resulting in a breakfast (or brunch, or dinner!) that’s both hearty and slightly sweet, perfect for chilly autumn mornings or any time you crave a cozy meal.
Why Apple Cinnamon Pancakes?
Cinnamon and apples are a match made in culinary heaven. The sweetness and subtle tartness of fresh apples balance the earthy warmth of cinnamon, creating a pancake that’s nostalgic, comforting, and just a little bit special. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself to a quiet morning, these pancakes are sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of your pancake batter.
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar – Adds richness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, plus more for serving – The star spice that brings warmth and aroma.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Ensures your pancakes rise to fluffy perfection.
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk, plus more as needed – Creates a tender crumb; adjust for desired batter thickness.
- ¾ cup buttermilk – Adds tang and helps activate the baking powder.
- 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1½ cups grated Granny Smith apple (from about 3 apples) – Provides fresh apple flavor and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Keeps the apples from browning and adds a bright note.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Brings a subtle depth of flavor.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted and cooled slightly, plus more for the griddle and for serving – Adds richness and helps with browning.
- Whipped cream and diced apples, for serving – The perfect finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, buttermilk, eggs, grated apples, lemon juice, and vanilla. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter, whisking briskly to emulsify.
- Combine the Batters: Using a rubber spatula, gently stir the dry ingredients while slowly pouring in the wet ingredients. Once all the wet ingredients are added, switch to folding to avoid overworking the batter. The batter should still be a bit lumpy—this ensures tender pancakes.
- Rest the Batter (Optional): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest on the counter for 45 minutes to 1 hour. This step is optional but helps develop flavor and texture.
- Prepare the Griddle: Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. If the batter is too thick, add up to ¼ cup more milk to thin it out. Grease the griddle with butter.
- Cook the Pancakes: Drop ¼ to ⅓ cup batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 1 to 1½ minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Top with whipped cream, diced apples, and a pinch of cinnamon for a beautiful, inviting breakfast that’s as delicious as it looks.
Tips for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
- Use Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness and firm texture hold up well during cooking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Lumpy batter leads to fluffier pancakes.
- Adjust Batter Thickness: Add a splash of milk if the batter is too thick for your liking.
- Resting is Optional: If you’re in a hurry, skip the resting time—your pancakes will still be delicious.
- Keep Pancakes Warm: Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a low oven while you finish the batch.
Serving Suggestions
Apple cinnamon pancakes are wonderful on their own, but you can easily dress them up for a special occasion. Try serving with:
- Whipped cream – Adds lightness and a touch of sweetness.
- Diced apples – For a fresh crunch and extra apple flavor.
- Cinnamon dusting – A sprinkle just before serving enhances aroma.
- Warm maple syrup – A drizzle ties all the flavors together.
- Chopped nuts – Pecans or walnuts add crunch and richness.
Healthier Variations
If you want to lighten up the recipe:
- Substitute whole wheat pastry flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour for extra fiber.
- Use almond milk instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free option.
- Try coconut oil instead of melted butter for a vegan twist.
Why Apples and Cinnamon Work So Well Together
The combination of apples and cinnamon is timeless for a reason. Apples gently caramelize when cooked, releasing their natural sugars, while cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that makes everything smell and taste like fall. This duo features in pies, cakes, oatmeal, and even savory dishes, but perhaps nowhere is it cozier than in a stack of pancakes on a crisp morning.
What others are reading
Apple Varieties to Use
While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, you can experiment with other varieties:
| Apple Variety | Flavor Profile | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith | Tart, crisp, firm | Hold shape, balance sweetness |
| Gala | Sweet, mild, soft | Melt into batter, sweeter pancakes |
| Honeycrisp | Sweet, juicy, crisp | Good for both texture and sweetness |
Storing and Reheating
These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later:
- Refrigerate: Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: Place separated pancakes on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a toaster, microwave, or pan until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make apple cinnamon pancakes without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar (let it sit for 5 minutes before using). Unsweetened yogurt thinned with milk also works.
Can I make the batter ahead?
You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Stir gently before cooking, as the batter may thicken in the fridge.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. You may need to adjust the liquid quantity slightly.
Can I add nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch and flavor. Simply fold them into the batter with the grated apples.
How do I keep my pancakes from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your griddle or skillet is well-heated and lightly greased with butter or oil before adding the batter.
More Apple Cinnamon Recipes to Try
If you love this flavor pairing, consider exploring other fall-inspired treats such as apple cinnamon oatmeal, apple cider donut cake, Irish apple cake, spiced apple pie, cinnamon candied apples, baked apples, apple cinnamon bread, or caramel apple cheesecake. Each of these dishes showcases the beloved combination of apples and cinnamon, making them perfect for the autumn season and beyond.
A Final Word
Apple cinnamon pancakes are a celebration of the season—warm, comforting, and bursting with fresh apple flavor. Whether you enjoy them on a lazy weekend morning or serve them for a special brunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can bring a taste of fall to your breakfast table any day of the week.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a62080435/apple-cinnamon-pancakes-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a79117/apple-spiced-pancakes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g41043620/apple-cinnamon-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37145681/easy-apple-recipes/
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